Garlic Toast Sloppy Joe Melts are a delicious twist on the classic Sloppy Joe, combining a savory beef mixture with garlic butter toast and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for a hearty weeknight meal or a casual gathering, these melts are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
1 bell pepper, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 slices of Italian bread
1/4 cup butter, softened
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
- Prepare the Sloppy Joe Mixture:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. - Prepare the Garlic Toast:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley if using. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the slices of Italian bread. Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown. - Assemble the Melts:
Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture evenly over the toasted bread slices. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top of each. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Serve:
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your savory and cheesy melts!
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. The prep time is about 15 minutes, while the cooking time is around 30 minutes, resulting in a total time of about 45 minutes.
Variations
- Add Spice: Include chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce in the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for a unique flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave for a quick option.
10 FAQs
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative. - What can I serve with these melts?
These melts pair nicely with a side salad, fries, or vegetable sticks. - Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the Sloppy Joe mixture in advance and reheat it when ready to assemble the melts. - How can I tell when the beef is cooked?
Cook until it is browned and no longer pink, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). - Can I freeze the Sloppy Joe mixture?
Yes, the mixture freezes well. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. - What if I don’t have Italian bread?
You can use any bread you have on hand, such as hoagie rolls or French bread. - Can I make these melts in the air fryer?
Yes! Cook in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, checking for doneness. - Can I omit the brown sugar?
Yes, you can reduce or omit the brown sugar if you prefer a less sweet flavor. - What if I want a more robust flavor?
Add additional spices like cayenne pepper or chili powder to enhance the flavor profile. - How long do leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Garlic Toast Sloppy Joe Melts offer a delicious and comforting twist on a classic favorite. With their savory beef mixture and melty cheese on buttery garlic toast, these melts are perfect for any meal occasion. Easy to make and utterly satisfying, they’re sure to become a family favorite!