Name: Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 yellow onion, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup tomato sauce; 1/2 cup ketchup; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 loaf French bread or baguette; 1/2 cup butter, softened; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread takes the best of two comfort foods and brings them together in one irresistible dish. Rich, hearty Sloppy Joe filling is piled high on top of crispy, buttery garlic bread, then topped with melted cheese for a satisfying and delicious meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe turns a classic weeknight dinner into a fun, shareable meal. It’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. Plus, it gives a nostalgic nod to childhood meals while adding a tasty twist with the garlic bread base.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Yellow onion, diced
Green bell pepper, diced
Garlic cloves, minced
Tomato sauce
Ketchup
Worcestershire sauce
Brown sugar
Salt
Black pepper
Italian seasoning
French bread or baguette
Butter, softened
Garlic powder
Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, I cook the ground beef until browned. I drain the excess grease.
I add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. I cook until the vegetables are tender.
I stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. I simmer the mixture for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens.
I slice the French bread in half lengthwise and place the halves on a baking sheet.
In a small bowl, I mix the softened butter and garlic powder. I spread this garlic butter mixture evenly over the bread halves.
I bake the bread for 5 minutes until lightly toasted.
I spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture generously over the toasted garlic bread.
I sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
I return the bread to the oven and bake for another 8-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
I garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 people. Preparation takes around 15 minutes, and cooking and baking together take another 20 minutes, making the total time about 35 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
For a spicy kick, I add diced jalapenos to the Sloppy Joe mixture.
I use a different cheese like cheddar or provolone if I want to change up the flavor.
To make it vegetarian, I use lentils or a plant-based meat substitute instead of ground beef.
For extra garlic flavor, I add roasted garlic to the butter spread.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place the garlic bread slices on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through. I avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.

FAQs

How can I make Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread ahead of time?

I prepare the Sloppy Joe mixture and store it separately. When I’m ready to serve, I assemble and bake the garlic bread fresh for the best texture.

Can I freeze Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread?

I recommend freezing only the Sloppy Joe mixture. When needed, I thaw it and prepare fresh garlic bread for the best flavor and texture.

What type of bread works best for this recipe?

I prefer using French bread or a sturdy baguette because they hold up well under the weight of the filling and stay crispy.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, I use a gluten-free loaf of bread and make sure all my sauces are certified gluten-free.

What side dishes pair well with Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread?

I like to serve it with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or classic coleslaw to balance the richness.

Conclusion

Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread is the perfect mash-up of two beloved favorites. I love making it for casual dinners, game nights, or any time I want something hearty, cheesy, and absolutely satisfying. It’s an easy recipe that always gets rave reviews and brings a fun, nostalgic touch to the table.