Cheesy Garlic Bread Sloppy Joe Melts combine two beloved comfort foods into one irresistible meal. Imagine rich, saucy Sloppy Joe filling sandwiched between layers of melty cheese and garlic-toasted bread—each bite is packed with flavor and satisfaction. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends for game night, these melts are bound to become a favorite. They’re easy to make, mess-free, and perfect for a cozy, cheesy dinner that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- For the Sloppy Joe Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Garlic Bread:
- 1 loaf French bread, cut in half lengthwise
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese (or a combination)
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor
Preparation
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Sloppy Joe Filling: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes, or until softened. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Make It Saucy: Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 10 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld.
- Prepare the Garlic Bread: While the Sloppy Joe mixture simmers, make the garlic butter. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over both halves of the French bread.
- Assemble the Melts: Place the buttered bread halves on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 5–7 minutes, or until slightly toasted. Remove from the oven and top each half with a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. Spoon the Sloppy Joe filling over the cheese layer, then sprinkle more mozzarella (and optional Parmesan) over the Sloppy Joe mixture.
- Melt and Toast: Return the bread to the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
- Serve: Let the melts cool slightly before slicing into individual pieces. Serve warm, with an optional sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish.
Variations
- Spicy Sloppy Joes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Sloppy Joe filling for a little heat, or top with sliced jalapeños.
- Meatless Option: Substitute ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative, or use a blend of finely chopped mushrooms and lentils.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese for added flavor.
Cooking Note
If using a thicker loaf of bread, consider scooping out a bit of the bread’s center to create a “boat” for the filling. This helps keep the filling in place and makes it easier to eat.
Serving Suggestions
Pair Cheesy Garlic Bread Sloppy Joe Melts with a side of coleslaw, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables. For a fun appetizer-style twist, cut the melts into smaller pieces and serve them as sliders for a crowd.
Tips
- Use Fresh Bread: Choose a fresh loaf for the best texture and flavor. Day-old bread may not hold up as well once the filling is added.
- Freeze Leftovers: You can freeze any extra filling for up to 3 months. Simply reheat and add it to fresh garlic bread when you’re ready to enjoy.
- Add Veggies: Grated carrots or finely chopped mushrooms can be added to the filling for a hidden veggie boost.
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, 1 slice)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 20g
- Sodium: 650mg
(Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used)
FAQs
Can I make the Sloppy Joe filling ahead of time?
Yes, the filling can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat before assembling the melts.
What bread works best for this recipe?
French bread, Italian loaf, or ciabatta are ideal because they’re sturdy and toasty, providing the perfect base for the filling and cheese.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover melts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Can I use jarred Sloppy Joe sauce?
Certainly! If you’re in a hurry, you can substitute with 1 cup of jarred Sloppy Joe sauce, adjusting the flavor with extra seasonings as desired.
Conclusion
Cheesy Garlic Bread Sloppy Joe Melts are a perfect fusion of flavors that elevate the classic Sloppy Joe to a new level. With the rich garlic butter, gooey cheese, and savory beef filling, these melts are sure to satisfy everyone around the table. Easy to make and packed with flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner or a weekend gathering. Try them out, and prepare for an instant hit!