Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes – Cheesy, Saucy & Irresistible
If you’re craving comfort food that’s both hearty and indulgent, look no further than garlic bread sloppy joes. This recipe combines the rich, saucy filling of traditional sloppy joes with the buttery, garlicky crunch of garlic bread. It’s the ultimate mash-up of two family favorites—perfect for busy weeknights, game-day gatherings, or when you want something quick yet impressive.
With its cheesy topping, savory beef mixture, and golden toasted garlic bread, this dish is guaranteed to win over kids and adults alike.
Ingredients (Serves 6)
For the Sloppy Joe Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (450 g)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce (240 ml)
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Garlic Bread Base:
- 1 loaf French bread (or 6 hoagie rolls, sliced in half)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (113 g), softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar)
Step by Step Cooking Guide
- Prepare the Sloppy Joe Filling
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Make Garlic Butter
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.
- Prepare the Bread
- Slice the French bread (or rolls) in half lengthwise. Spread garlic butter generously on each half.
- Assemble
- Place the bread halves on a baking sheet. Toast under the broiler for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden.
- Spoon the sloppy joe filling evenly over the bread.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake & Serve
- Place the assembled bread back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Slice into portions and serve warm.
Cooking Time & Serving Size
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Serving Size: 6
Tips & Variations
- Cheesy Upgrade: Try a mix of mozzarella, cheddar, and provolone for extra gooeyness.
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to the filling.
- Different Protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a twist.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the sloppy joe filling in advance and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Assemble with garlic bread before baking.
- Individual Servings: Use garlic toast slices instead of French bread for a fun party snack.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 26 g |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Fat | 24 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 7 g |
Healthy Alternatives
- Low-Fat: Use lean ground turkey and reduced-fat cheese.
- Low-Carb/Keto: Replace bread with zucchini boats or portobello mushroom caps.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter and vegan cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Swap French bread with gluten-free baguette or rolls.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic bread sloppy joes are best served hot, straight from the oven with melty cheese stretching as you pull them apart. Pair with a crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or even a bowl of soup for a balanced meal. They’re crowd-pleasing, budget-friendly, and bursting with flavor—a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I use pre-made garlic bread for this recipe?
Yes! Simply bake the garlic bread as instructed, then top with sloppy joe filling and cheese before finishing in the oven.
Q2: Can I freeze garlic bread sloppy joes?
Yes. Assemble without baking, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until hot and cheesy.
Q3: What sides go well with this recipe?
French fries, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad complement it perfectly.
Q4: Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use plant-based ground meat or lentils in place of beef.
Q5: How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?
Toast the bread slightly before adding the filling—this creates a barrier and keeps it crisp.
