Ingredients
For the Garlic Bread
- 1 loaf French bread or Italian bread
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Sloppy Joe Filling
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ½ small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Topping
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the garlic bread: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the bread in half lengthwise. Mix the softened butter, garlic, parsley, and salt, then spread evenly over both halves.
- Toast the bread: Place on a baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, until lightly crisp.
- Cook the filling: Brown the ground beef and onion in a large skillet over medium heat for 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Stir in the ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes, until thickened.
- Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture evenly over the toasted garlic bread.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For extra browning, broil for 1–2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, slice into portions, and serve immediately.
Tips
- Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy version.
- Mix in diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
- Swap ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Serve with a green salad, coleslaw, or crispy fries.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes or air fry at 350°F for 3–5 minutes until hot and crispy.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 480–550 per serving
