Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread

This Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread is the ultimate mashup of two comfort food classics. By using a sturdy ciabatta loaf as the base, you provide a chewy, porous foundation that can handle the weight and sauciness of the beef without becoming soggy. The combination of sweet-and-tangy Sloppy Joe meat topped with a melted blend of mozzarella and sharp cheddar makes this a perfect easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing game-day appetizer.

Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread

Ingredients:

How To Make Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread:

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a large baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Slice the ciabatta loaf in half lengthwise. Spread the softened butter evenly over both cut sides and sprinkle with the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set these aside while you prep the beef.

Step 2: Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the 1 lb of ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics: Stir in the diced onion and cook for 3/4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce: Add the ketchup, water, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20/30 minutes. The sauce should be thick and glossy. Taste and add salt or pepper if needed.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake: Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture generously onto the buttery ciabatta halves. Top with a mix of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges of the bread are toasted and golden.

Step 6: Slice and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 2/3 minutes so the cheese sets slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then slice into thick strips.