Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- ½ cup diced onion
- ½ cup diced bell pepper (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 loaf French bread (cut into 6–8 slices, not fully separated)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella for extra stretchiness)
Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat, add ground beef, onions, and bell peppers. Cook until beef is browned and vegetables are softened. Drain excess fat, then stir in garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Slice the French bread into portions but do not cut all the way through. Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the bread slices.
- Spoon the sloppy joe mixture evenly onto each slice of garlic bread. Top generously with shredded cheese. Place the assembled loaf on a baking sheet.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. For an extra crispy finish, broil for 1–2 minutes. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread or rolls.
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives for dietary preferences.
- Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack, gouda, or provolone for unique tastes.
- Assemble ahead of time but add cheese just before baking to prevent sogginess.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to retain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg