Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread

Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread

This Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread brings together two comfort food favorites in one irresistible dish. A sturdy ciabatta loaf provides a chewy, absorbent base that holds all the saucy beef without getting soggy. The sweet-and-tangy Sloppy Joe filling topped with melted mozzarella and sharp cheddar makes it perfect for a simple weeknight dinner or a game-day crowd pleaser.

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Ingredients

Garlic Bread Base:

• 1 ciabatta loaf
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

Sloppy Joe Mixture:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 ½ cups ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• ½ cup yellow onion, finely diced
• ¼ cup water
• 1 tsp yellow mustard
• ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. Prepare Oven & Bread
   Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment. Slice the ciabatta loaf in half lengthwise. Spread butter on each half and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
2. Cook the Beef
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until fully browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Sauté Aromatics
   Add the diced onion to the beef and cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Simmer the Sloppy Joe Sauce
   Mix in ketchup, water, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 20–30 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble & Bake
   Spread the Sloppy Joe mixture evenly over the ciabatta halves. Top with mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Bake for 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden.
6. Serve & Enjoy
   Let the bread rest 2–3 minutes. Slice into thick strips, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve warm.