If you’re a fan of comfort food, combining two all-time favorites—Sloppy Joes and cheesy garlic bread—is a match made in heaven. Cheesy Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes bring together the rich, savory flavors of traditional Sloppy Joes, topped with melted cheese, all sandwiched between crispy, buttery garlic bread. This easy recipe is a surefire way to elevate your weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers.
Perfect for both kids and adults, this meal is not only delicious but also a fun twist on a classic. Whether you’re looking for something hearty to serve at a gathering or simply want to indulge in something comforting, this recipe checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make!
If you’re looking to add variety to your meal, consider pairing this with a fresh side like a homemade Caesar salad or a refreshing Italian chopped salad to balance the richness of the cheesy garlic bread Sloppy Joes.
Why You Should Try Cheesy Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes
There are several reasons why cheesy garlic bread sloppy joes deserve a spot on your dinner table. First, they are incredibly satisfying. The rich, garlicky bread, topped with a generous layer of melted cheese and juicy Sloppy Joe meat, offers a flavor explosion with each bite. The garlic butter seeps into the bread, while the cheese adds a gooey, indulgent layer that perfectly complements the meat filling.
Secondly, this dish is versatile. You can serve it as a casual dinner, bring it to a potluck, or even make mini versions for a party. Since it’s a fun twist on two beloved foods, cheesy garlic bread sloppy joes are bound to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Additionally, they are easy to customize—add different cheeses, extra spices, or even a vegetarian filling if you like.
For those who love experimenting with comforting dishes, you can also check out these loaded baked potato skins for another crowd-pleasing appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients for Cheesy Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes
This recipe is simple and uses ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen. To make cheesy garlic bread sloppy joes, you’ll need the following:
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups tomato sauce (or use Sloppy Joe sauce)
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 6 slices mozzarella or provolone cheese (or use a combination of both)
- 6 hoagie rolls or thick slices of French bread
- ¼ cup parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Ingredient Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some possible ingredient substitutions to make this recipe your own:
- Ground Beef Substitute: You can swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative for a vegetarian option.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar, gouda, or even pepper jack can add a new flavor dimension to your cheesy garlic bread sloppy joes.
- Bread Choices: Hoagie rolls are the go-to bread, but French bread, ciabatta, or even brioche buns work beautifully. For a healthier option, you could also use whole wheat bread.
- Garlic Butter Add-Ins: If you want to intensify the garlic flavor, try mixing fresh garlic with the butter, along with herbs like thyme or rosemary.
For an indulgent addition to your dinner menu, pair these sandwiches with a creamy broccoli cheddar soup, which makes for a cozy meal perfect for any occasion.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cheesy Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s get started with the step-by-step process of making cheesy garlic bread sloppy joes. With these simple instructions, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready in no time.
1. Prepare the Sloppy Joe Filling
Start by cooking the filling:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Next, add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.
2. Prepare the Garlic Bread
While the filling is simmering, prepare the garlic bread:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. If you’d like, you can also add fresh parsley for extra flavor.
- Slice your hoagie rolls or French bread in half and spread the garlic butter mixture generously over each slice.
- Place the bread on a baking sheet and toast it in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
3. Assemble the Sloppy Joes
Once the garlic bread is toasted:
- Remove the bread from the oven and immediately top each slice with a portion of the Sloppy Joe mixture.
- Add a slice of mozzarella or provolone cheese on top of the meat mixture.
- Return the sandwiches to the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Finally, remove the sandwiches from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley (if desired), and serve hot. Pair your cheesy garlic bread sloppy joes with a fresh side salad or your favorite fries for a complete meal.
If you’re looking for more ways to impress at dinner, try making a batch of garlic parmesan mashed potatoes as a tasty side dish that pairs perfectly with these sloppy joes.
Flavor Variations for Cheesy Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes
One of the best aspects of cheesy garlic bread sloppy joes is how versatile they are. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your tastes or add a fun twist to the classic flavors. Here are a few flavor variations you can try:
BBQ Sloppy Joes
For a smoky, sweet twist on the traditional Sloppy Joe, swap out the tomato sauce for your favorite barbecue sauce. The sweet and tangy flavors of the BBQ sauce complement the garlicky bread and melted cheese perfectly. You can also add a sprinkle of crispy bacon for an extra layer of flavor.
Spicy Sloppy Joes
If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the Sloppy Joe mixture. Pepper jack cheese is another great way to add some spice, and you can even top the sandwiches with pickled jalapeños for an extra kick.
Cheddar Bacon Sloppy Joes
Add crispy bacon and swap the mozzarella for sharp cheddar cheese to create a decadent version of the classic cheesy garlic bread sloppy joes. The smoky bacon pairs beautifully with the garlic bread and savory beef filling, while the sharpness of the cheddar adds a bold flavor.
Vegetarian Sloppy Joes
For a meatless option, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based alternative or use lentils as the filling. The lentils provide a hearty texture, and the garlic bread and cheese still offer all the comforting flavors you love.
For more comforting dinner ideas, check out this classic lasagna recipe that’s perfect for family gatherings or a weeknight meal.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes
There are countless ways to serve cheesy garlic bread sloppy joes. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- With Fries: Serve your sloppy joes with crispy French fries or sweet potato fries for a classic pairing.
- Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad like a Caesar salad or a chopped salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sloppy joes.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with vinegar or a creamy dressing complements the flavors and adds a crunchy texture to the meal.
- Soup Pairing: For a cozier meal, serve the sandwiches with a bowl of tomato soup. The combination of hot soup and cheesy sandwiches is always a hit.
Storing and Reheating Cheesy Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes
If you have leftovers (though they’re often devoured quickly), cheesy garlic bread sloppy joes can be easily stored and reheated. Here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerating: Store the meat mixture and the garlic bread separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping them separate ensures the bread doesn’t get soggy.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked Sloppy Joe meat for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in a pan on the stove. Toast fresh garlic bread before assembling.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm the Sloppy Joe mixture on the stovetop and toast the garlic bread in the oven. Assemble the sandwiches and broil for a few minutes to melt the cheese.
For more dinner ideas that can be easily stored and reheated, consider trying these make-ahead enchiladas, which are perfect for meal prep.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of meat for the filling?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives. All of these options work well and can be seasoned in the same way.
What type of bread is best for this recipe?
Hoagie rolls, French bread, or ciabatta are all great options for making cheesy garlic bread sloppy joes. If you prefer a softer texture, you could also use brioche buns.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To lighten up the recipe, you can use ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative, reduce the amount of cheese, and opt for whole wheat bread.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the Sloppy Joe meat ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the meat and toast the garlic bread before assembling the sandwiches.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy garlic bread sloppy joes offer the perfect blend of flavors—garlicky, cheesy bread combined with savory, juicy Sloppy Joe filling. Whether you’re serving them for a casual weeknight dinner, a game-day meal, or a fun gathering, they’re sure to be a hit.
If you’re interested in learning more about garlic and its culinary uses, check out this informative Wikipedia article on garlic.
No matter how you choose to serve them, cheesy garlic bread sloppy joes will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy!