Garlic Toast Sloppy Joe Melts

Enjoy a delicious twist on a classic favorite with these Garlic Toast Sloppy Joe Melts. This hearty dish features a savory sloppy joe filling atop crispy garlic toast, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or game day snack!

Ingredients

For the Sloppy Joe Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp mustard
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garlic Toast:

• 8 slices of bread
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

For Assembly:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Sloppy Joes

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Toast

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.
3. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the bread slices.
4. Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the toast is golden and crispy.

Step 3: Assemble the Melts

1. Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture over the garlic toast slices.
2. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each Sloppy Joe-covered toast.
3. Return the toasts to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired.
2. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Garlic Toast Sloppy Joe Melts!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Add jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Use different types of cheese, like pepper jack or mozzarella, for varied flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. For a crispy texture, reheat in the oven.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-made sloppy joe sauce?
   Yes, using pre-made sauce can save time; just skip the sauce ingredients and heat according to package directions.
2. What type of bread works best for this recipe?
   Any sturdy bread will work, but thick slices of Italian or sourdough bread are especially good.
3. Can I make the sloppy joe mixture ahead of time?
   Yes, the sloppy joe filling can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
4. Is this dish kid-friendly?
   Absolutely! Kids love the cheesy, savory flavors, and it’s a fun way to eat sloppy joes.
5. How do I ensure the garlic toast is crispy?
   Baking the toast until golden brown before adding the filling helps maintain its crunch.
6. Can I make this vegetarian?
   Yes, you can use lentils or black beans as a substitute for the ground beef.
7. What can I serve with these melts?
   They pair well with a side salad, potato chips, or coleslaw.
8. How can I make this dish spicier?
   Add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sloppy joe mixture for an extra kick.
9. Can I freeze these melts?
   It’s best to freeze the sloppy joe mixture separately from the toast to maintain quality.
10. How long do these last in the fridge?
    The melts can be stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

Garlic Toast Sloppy Joe Melts are a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the classic taste of sloppy joes with the deliciousness of garlic bread. Perfect for casual gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the savory goodness and the cheesy delight in every bite!

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