Description
Enjoy a delicious twist on a classic with these Italian Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes! Ground beef or turkey is simmered in a savory sauce and served on toasted garlic bread rolls, topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large Italian rolls or garlic bread loaves
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Next, add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into smaller pieces. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if using beef.
- Stir in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix everything well to combine.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- While the sloppy joe filling is simmering, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the Italian rolls or garlic bread loaves in half lengthwise. Spread a mixture of softened butter and minced garlic on the cut sides for added flavor.
- Place the rolls on a baking sheet, cut side up, and sprinkle some Italian seasoning on top of the buttered sides.
- Toast the rolls in the preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Spoon a generous amount of the sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted roll.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the filling.
- Place the top half of the roll over the cheese and add fresh basil leaves if desired.
- Return the assembled sloppy joes to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes to melt the cheese and warm everything through.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute before serving.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes