Introduction
Cheesy Garlic Bread Sloppy Joe Melts are a delicious twist on a classic comfort food, combining the savory goodness of Sloppy Joes with the irresistible flavors of garlic bread and melted cheese. This recipe transforms a traditional sandwich into a hearty, cheesy, and flavorful meal that is perfect for a casual dinner or a weekend treat. The rich, tomato-based meat filling is tucked between slices of crispy, buttery garlic bread and topped with melted cheese, offering a satisfying bite in every mouthful. If you’re craving a meal that’s both comforting and indulgent, these Sloppy Joe melts are the perfect choice.
The History of
Sloppy Joes have a long and somewhat debated history, with various claims about their origins. Some say the sandwich was first created in the 1930s in a small cafe in Sioux City, Iowa, where a chef named Joe invented the dish by adding sloppy, seasoned beef to a bun. The combination of ground beef, onions, tomato sauce, and spices quickly became a staple in American households and school cafeterias. Over time, the Sloppy Joe has evolved, with numerous variations incorporating different types of bread, meat, and seasoning. Garlic bread, on the other hand, has been a beloved Italian-American side dish for decades, often served alongside pasta dishes. The pairing of these two beloved foods into one melt is a modern take that blends the best of both worlds.
Ingredients Breakdown
This dish requires a few essential ingredients. Ground beef or turkey is typically used as the base for the Sloppy Joe filling, providing the protein-rich foundation. For the sauce, you’ll need ingredients like tomato sauce, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce, which together create a savory and tangy flavor. Garlic bread serves as the outer layer, made from butter, minced garlic, and your choice of bread. A good melt requires cheese, and in this recipe, mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone can be used to provide that gooey, cheesy texture. Seasonings like onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika bring out the best in the filling, while fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness to the final dish.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Start by preparing the garlic bread. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Slice your bread and spread a generous amount of butter on each slice. Mince garlic and sprinkle it evenly over the buttered bread. Place the slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 10 minutes or until golden and crispy. While the bread is toasting, cook your ground beef or turkey in a skillet over medium heat. Once browned, add the onions and cook until softened. Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings, and let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once the garlic bread is ready, spoon a generous amount of the Sloppy Joe filling onto one slice of bread. Add a layer of cheese on top and place another slice of garlic bread on top to form a sandwich. Return the sandwiches to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and allow the melts to cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Tips for the Perfect
To ensure the perfect Cheesy Garlic Bread Sloppy Joe Melt, use a sturdy bread that can hold up to the filling without becoming soggy. If possible, opt for a thicker, denser bread like a sourdough or Italian loaf for the best results. When making the Sloppy Joe filling, be sure to let the mixture simmer long enough to thicken and develop rich flavors. If you prefer a spicier version, feel free to add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes to the sauce. For an extra cheesy melt, use a blend of mozzarella and cheddar or even provolone for a delicious, stretchy texture.
Variations and Customizations
For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. To make the dish vegetarian, consider using plant-based ground meat or a hearty combination of lentils and vegetables in place of the meat. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack for a bit of spice or a sharp cheddar for more flavor. For those who enjoy extra toppings, try adding sautéed mushrooms, pickles, or even a drizzle of barbecue sauce. You could also swap the garlic bread for regular toasted bread, or even try using a soft bun for a more traditional sandwich-style approach.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
Cheesy Garlic Bread Sloppy Joe Melts, like many comfort foods, are rich in flavor but can be high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium, particularly due to the use of cheese and butter. To make the dish healthier, you can use whole grain bread for extra fiber, reduce the amount of butter on the garlic bread, or use a lower-fat cheese. Opting for leaner ground turkey or plant-based alternatives can also lower the fat content. For those mindful of their calorie intake, consider serving the melts with a side of fresh salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the meal.
FAQ
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Sloppy Joe filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to assemble the melts, just reheat the filling, prepare the garlic bread, and finish baking the melts as instructed.
Can I freeze Cheesy Garlic Bread Sloppy Joe Melts?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled melts before baking. Wrap each melt individually in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
What kind of bread is best for this recipe?
For the best results, use a thick, sturdy bread like Italian, sourdough, or French bread. These types of bread can hold up to the Sloppy Joe filling without becoming soggy.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or use a combination of lentils, mushrooms, and vegetables for a vegetarian option.
Cheesy Garlic Bread Sloppy Joe Melts
Ingredients
Bread
- ▢1 loaf Italian bread
- ▢½ cup 1 stick / 113 g unsalted butter, softened
- ▢1 teaspoon garlic salt
Sloppy Joe
- ▢1 pound ground beef
- ▢¼ cup yellow onion chopped
- ▢½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ▢1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- ▢¾ cup 180 g ketchup
- ▢½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ▢¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ▢½ cup water
Topping
- ▢1 cup 113 g mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ▢1 cup 113 g sharp cheddar, shredded
- ▢parsley chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F* and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the loaf of bread lengthwise into two halves. Place both halves on the prepared baking sheet, cut side up.
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter and garlic salt. Spread the butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread. Set aside while preparing the sloppy joe filling.
For the Sloppy Joe filling:
- In a medium nonstick skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onions until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease. Stir in the garlic powder, mustard, ketchup, salt, pepper, and water, mixing everything together until well combined.
For assembly:
- Evenly distribute the sloppy joe mixture between the two halves of bread. Top each with the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Cut into pieces and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
