Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread

Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread

This mash-up combines the messy, savory goodness of sloppy joes with crispy, garlicky bread for a handheld crowd-pleaser perfect for game day, parties, or a fun family dinner.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Bread:

· 1 large loaf French or Italian bread (about 16 inches)
· ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
· 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
· 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
· ½ teaspoon salt
· ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

For the Sloppy Joe Filling:

· 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
· 1 small onion, finely chopped
· ½ green bell pepper, finely chopped
· 2 garlic cloves, minced
· ¾ cup ketchup
· ¼ cup tomato paste
· 2 tablespoons brown sugar
· 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
· 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
· 1 teaspoon chili powder
· ½ cup beef broth or water
· Salt and black pepper to taste

For Topping:

· 1½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
· Sliced green onions or parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare Garlic Bread:
   · Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
   · In a bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and Parmesan (if using).
   · Slice bread loaf in half lengthwise. Spread garlic butter evenly over cut sides.
   · Place on baking sheet, buttered side up, and bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and set oven to broil.
2. Make Sloppy Joe Filling:
   · In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat.
   · Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook 4-5 minutes until softened.
   · Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, brown sugar, Worcestershire, mustard, chili powder, and broth. Season with salt and pepper.
   · Simmer 10-15 minutes until thickened. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Assemble:
   · Spoon sloppy joe mixture evenly over both garlic bread halves.
   · Top generously with shredded cheese.
   · Broil 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly (watch closely!).
4. Serve:
   · Slice into 2-inch pieces. Garnish with green onions or parsley.
   · Serve immediately with napkins—it’s deliciously messy!

Tips

· For a lighter version, use ground turkey or plant-based crumbles.
· Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for heat.
· Prepare filling ahead and assemble just before broiling.
· Great with pickles, coleslaw, or a simple green salad on the side.

Enjoy this hearty, flavorful twist on two classics!