Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes

Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes offer a flavorful twist on the classic sloppy joe by using crispy, buttery garlic bread as the base. This hearty dish features a savory, well-seasoned ground beef or turkey mixture simmered in a tangy tomato sauce, nestled between slices of garlic-infused bread. The result is a deliciously messy, comforting meal with a crispy exterior and a flavorful, gooey center. Perfect for a casual dinner or a fun twist on a classic, this recipe combines the rich, aromatic flavors of garlic bread with the savory goodness of sloppy joes for a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients:

• For the Sloppy Joes:
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Garlic Bread:
  • 1 loaf of Italian bread or French bread
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Garlic Bread:
   1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   2. Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise.
   3. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, and salt until well combined.
   4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
   5. Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Set aside.
2. Cook the Sloppy Joes:
   1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
   2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
   3. Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
   4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the flavors meld together.
3. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
   1. Slice the garlic bread into sandwich-sized pieces.
   2. Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture onto the bottom half of each garlic bread slice.
   3. Top with the other half of the garlic bread, press down lightly, and serve immediately.

Tips:

• For Extra Flavor: Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top of the Sloppy Joe mixture and place under the broiler for a minute or two before adding the top bread.
• For a Spicier Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes with the Sloppy Joe mixture.
• Bread Choice: Choose a crusty loaf for the best texture and to hold up well to the Sloppy Joe filling.

Enjoy your delicious and savory Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes!