Description
A delicious fusion of messy, saucy Sloppy Joe topping over golden, garlicky French bread, baked to perfection with melty cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 large loaf French bread (or 2 baguettes, halved lengthwise)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, divided)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 lb ground beef (85/15 recommended)
- 1 small onion (finely diced)
- 1 green bell pepper (finely diced)
- 1 cup tomato sauce (or Sloppy Joe sauce)
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the loaf lengthwise and place the cut sides up on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
- Mix the softened butter with the minced garlic and half of the chopped parsley, then spread it evenly across both cut sides of the bread.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up as it cooks; drain excess fat.
- Add the finely diced onion, green bell pepper, and remaining minced garlic to the beef. Sauté until the vegetables soften. Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and chili powder if using. Season with salt and black pepper and simmer until thickened.
- Spread the Sloppy Joe mixture evenly over the garlic-buttered bread, then top with shredded mozzarella and sprinkle with Parmesan if using.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling. Broil for 1–2 minutes for a golden-brown finish, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Notes
For a lower fat version, use 90/10 grind beef or ground turkey. Add heat with cayenne pepper or customize the toppings as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American