Introduction

If you’re craving something that combines the comfort of sloppy joes with the irresistible flavor of garlic bread, these Cheesy Garlic Bread Sloppy Joe Melts are the perfect solution. Imagine savory, saucy Sloppy Joe filling piled high on buttery garlic toast and topped with a generous layer of melty cheese—it’s the ultimate comfort food mashup! Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or serving up an easy game-day treat, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The garlic bread base adds an extra layer of flavor that elevates this classic to new heights, making it a must-try for anyone who loves bold, hearty flavors.

Ingredients:

For the Garlic Bread:

• 1 loaf Italian bread (preferably a large, thick loaf)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt

For the Sloppy Joe Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef (lean beef works best)
• ½ cup yellow onion, finely chopped
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
• ½ cup ketchup
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup water

For the Topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation:

Step 1: Make the Garlic Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take the loaf of Italian bread and slice it in half lengthwise, creating two long halves. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter and garlic salt until well combined. Spread this garlic butter mixture evenly over both halves of the bread. Set the bread aside for now, as you’ll be topping it with the Sloppy Joe filling after it’s prepared.

Step 2: Cook the Sloppy Joe Filling

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat.

Once the beef is cooked and drained, add the chopped yellow onion to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the onions soften and become translucent. Stir in the garlic powder, yellow mustard, ketchup, kosher salt, black pepper, and water. Mix everything together well.

Reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together. The filling should be rich, saucy, and aromatic.

Step 3: Assemble the Garlic Bread Sloppy Joe Melts

Take your prepared garlic bread halves and place them on a baking sheet. Spread the Sloppy Joe mixture evenly over both halves of the bread, ensuring the mixture is piled high for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheeses evenly over the top of the Sloppy Joe-covered bread. The combination of cheeses gives these melts an ooey-gooey texture and sharp, rich flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Sloppy Joe Melts

Place the assembled garlic bread halves into the preheated oven. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. You want the bread to be slightly crispy on the edges, and the cheese should be completely melted and irresistible.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the cheese is beautifully golden and bubbly, remove the melts from the oven. Let them cool for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Slice the garlic bread into individual servings (you can cut them into squares or strips) and serve immediately. These melts are best enjoyed warm when the cheese is gooey and the bread is crispy.

Cooking Note:

• Make it spicy: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the Sloppy Joe mixture for a spicy kick.
• Bread option: If you prefer a crunchier texture, you can use French bread or ciabatta instead of Italian bread.
• Cheese customization: While mozzarella and cheddar provide the perfect blend of melty and sharp flavors, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for a spicier twist or provolone for a mild, creamy flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

• These Cheesy Garlic Bread Sloppy Joe Melts are filling on their own, but they pair beautifully with a simple side salad or some crispy potato wedges.
• For a complete game-day feast, serve them alongside onion rings, nachos, or even coleslaw.
• These melts are perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or a fun weekend lunch.

Tips:

1. Toast the bread slightly: For an even crispier garlic bread base, toast the garlic bread for 5 minutes before adding the Sloppy Joe mixture. This helps prevent the bread from getting too soggy under the filling.
2. Make-ahead option: You can make the Sloppy Joe filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the filling and assemble the garlic bread melts for a quick meal.
3. Vegetarian alternative: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils for a meatless version that’s just as hearty and delicious.
4. Extra cheese love: For the ultimate cheesy experience, add an extra ½ cup of shredded cheese before baking for a thicker, gooier layer of cheese.

Prep Time:

• 10 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 20 minutes (includes simmering and baking)

Total Time:

• 30 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 3g

Conclusion:

These Cheesy Garlic Bread Sloppy Joe Melts are a delicious and easy twist on a traditional sloppy joe. With buttery garlic bread as the base, topped with savory ground beef and melty cheese, they’re guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table. The balance of flavors—from the richness of the cheese to the tanginess of the ketchup and mustard—creates a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love. Plus, they come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Add these to your recipe rotation for a fun, cheesy, and comforting meal!

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