Italian Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Italian Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes bring together the bold flavors of Italian-seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and crispy garlic bread for a mouthwatering twist on a classic sandwich. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Onion (chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Italian seasoning
• Crushed tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Garlic bread (sliced)
• Butter (melted)
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. While the meat mixture simmers, brush garlic bread slices with melted butter and place them on a baking sheet.
6. Toast the garlic bread in the oven for about 5 minutes until slightly crisp.
7. Spoon the beef mixture over the toasted garlic bread slices.
8. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
9. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Use a plant-based meat substitute and veggie-based sauce.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Layer with provolone or ricotta cheese for extra richness.
• Healthier Version: Use whole wheat garlic bread and lean ground turkey.
• Extra Crunch: Top with crispy fried onions or breadcrumbs before baking.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the meat mixture separately for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave in short intervals.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes! Ciabatta, hoagie rolls, or Texas toast work great.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the meat mixture in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to assemble.

What cheese works best for this recipe?

Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, but provolone adds a great flavor too.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free bread and check ingredient labels.

How do I prevent soggy bread?

Toasting the garlic bread before adding the meat helps keep it crispy.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative.

What sides pair well with this dish?

A fresh side salad, roasted vegetables, or fries complement the meal perfectly.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook the meat mixture in a slow cooker on low for 4-5 hours.

How can I make this dish creamier?

Add a spoonful of ricotta or cream cheese to the meat mixture.

Can I add mushrooms or peppers?

Absolutely! Sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers add great flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Italian Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes are a fun and flavorful twist on a classic comfort food. Easy to prepare and full of delicious Italian flavors, they’re perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish. Try out different variations and enjoy this cheesy, saucy delight!

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