Description

These Italian Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes combine the classic comfort of sloppy joes with the aromatic flavors of Italian garlic bread. Ground beef or Italian sausage is cooked with marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and melted cheese, then served on crispy, buttery garlic bread rolls for a delicious twist on a family favorite sandwich.

Ingredients

For the Sloppy Joe Filling

1 lb (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage (or a mix of both)
1 small onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup (240ml) marinara sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese

For the Garlic Bread

4–6 sandwich rolls, halved (preferably ciabatta or Italian rolls)
4 tbsp butter, softened
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Garlic Bread: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the sandwich rolls. Arrange the rolls buttered side up on a baking sheet and bake for 5–7 minutes or until golden and crispy.
Cook the Filling: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5–7 minutes. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes if using, and salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly. Stir in the shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese until melted and combined.
Assemble the Sloppy Joes: Spoon the filling generously onto the garlic bread bottoms and top with the remaining garlic bread halves. Press lightly to serve.

Notes

You can substitute Italian sausage with all ground beef or a mix for varied flavor.
Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level or omit for no heat.
Use freshly grated Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley for best flavor in garlic butter.
For a crispier garlic bread, broil for the last 1-2 minutes but watch carefully to avoid burning.
These sandwiches are best served hot and fresh for maximum enjoyment.