Description
This Garlic Bread recipe with a Sloppy Joe twist combines the comforting flavors of seasoned ground beef with melted mozzarella and buttery garlic parsley spread, all baked on crispy French bread. Perfect for a hearty snack or a casual meal, it brings together the richness of classic garlic bread with a flavorful meat topping.
Ingredients
Bread and Butter Spread
- 1 large loaf French bread (or 2 baguettes, halved lengthwise)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, divided)
Sloppy Joe Meat Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef (85/15 recommended)
- 1 small onion (finely diced)
- 1 green bell pepper (finely diced)
- 1 cup tomato sauce (or Sloppy Joe sauce)
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
- salt and black pepper (to taste)
Toppings
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the French bread or baguettes lengthwise and place them cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic and half of the chopped fresh parsley, then spread this flavorful butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
- Cook Meat Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep it from being greasy. Add the finely diced onion, green bell pepper, and remaining garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Simmer Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder if using, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 to 6 minutes until it thickens and the flavors meld together well.
- Assemble Sloppy Joe Bread: Spoon the thickened Sloppy Joe meat mixture generously over the buttered bread halves. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and optional Parmesan cheese on top to create a gooey, cheesy layer.
- Bake and Broil: Bake the assembled bread in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until the cheese melts and bubbles. For a golden and slightly crispy cheese topping, switch to broil for an additional 2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and sprinkle with the remaining fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Slice into servings and serve warm for the best taste experience.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for the butter spread to maximize flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the chili powder or add a dash of hot sauce.
- This recipe works well with cheddar or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven to maintain crispness.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American