Step 1: Prepare the Sloppy Joe Filling
- Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add vegetables: Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in sauces: Add the tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Bread
- Make garlic butter: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with minced garlic, parsley, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Slice the bread: Slice your French bread loaf in half horizontally. If using pre-made garlic bread, you can skip this step.
Step 3: Assemble the Bake
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer the filling: Spread the cooked sloppy joe mixture evenly into the bottom of a baking dish (about 9×13 inches).
- Add cheese: Sprinkle the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses generously over the top of the sloppy joe mixture.
- Add garlic bread: Lay the garlic bread slices, cut-side up, on top of the cheese. Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the bread.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake the dish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the garlic bread is golden and crispy.
- Optional – Broil: For extra crispy garlic bread, switch to the broil setting for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot, slicing into portions to include both the cheesy, beefy filling and the crispy garlic bread.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Family-Friendly: It combines the best of both worlds—garlic bread and sloppy joes—into one easy-to-make dish.
- Cheesy Goodness: The melty mozzarella and cheddar cheeses take this bake to the next level.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: The top layer of garlic bread adds a buttery, crispy texture to balance the rich and savory beef.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep or next-day lunches.
This Garlic Bread Cheesy Sloppy Joe Bake will become a hit for weeknight dinners or parties. It’s indulgent, flavorful, and brings together two of your favorite comfort foods. Enjoy the cheesy, meaty goodness with every bite!