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Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread

A bold fusion of American comfort classics, this Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread recipe brings together the rich, savory meat filling of a traditional Sloppy Joe and the toasty, cheesy satisfaction of garlic bread—perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Print Recipe
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

For the Bread Base:

  • 1 rustic ciabatta loaf halved lengthwise
  • 2 tablespoons 26 g unsalted butter, at room temperature for easy spreading
  • 1 teaspoon granulated garlic or garlic powder
  • Fine sea salt and ground black pepper to season as desired
  • 1 cup 112 g grated sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup 112 g shredded mozzarella cheese

For the Sloppy Joe Filling:

  • 1 pound 450 g lean ground beef
  • ½ cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 teaspoons 10 ml olive oil for sautéing
  • 1½ cups 360 ml ketchup
  • ¼ cup 60 ml water
  • 2 tablespoons 25 g packed light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon 5 ml classic yellow mustard
  • ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Set your oven to preheat at 350°F (180°C), and prepare a large baking tray by lining it with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
  • Slice the ciabatta bread horizontally, creating two long halves. Spread a generous layer of the softened butter on the cut sides, then evenly dust with garlic powder. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Set the prepared bread aside.
  • Warm a skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Pour in the olive oil and add the ground beef. Break up the meat as it cooks, continuing until there is no visible pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
  • Introduce the finely chopped onion into the pan, and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook briefly, around 30 seconds.
  • Pour in the ketchup followed by water, then add the brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine all the flavors.
  • Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer, partially covered, for 20 to 30 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  • Spoon the hot sloppy joe filling evenly across both halves of the buttered ciabatta. Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the top of the meat.
  • Place the assembled bread into the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread edges are lightly browned and crisp.
  • Once baked, remove from the oven, slice into portions, and optionally garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately.