Italian Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes

If you’re craving a hearty, cheesy, and flavorful meal, these Italian Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes are sure to hit the spot. This recipe combines the savory goodness of a classic sloppy joe with the rich, aromatic flavors of Italian cuisine. Topped with melted mozzarella cheese and served on hoagie buns, it’s the perfect meal for a casual weeknight dinner or a fun family gathering.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 hoagie buns, sliced in half
• 8 slices mozzarella cheese

Directions

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. While the mixture simmers, preheat the broiler in your oven. Place the hoagie bun halves on a baking sheet, cut-side up.
5. Spoon the meat mixture generously onto each hoagie bun half, then top each with two slices of mozzarella cheese.
6. Broil the buns for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, watching carefully to prevent burning.
7. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious, cheesy Italian twist on a classic sloppy joe!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for plant-based ground meat or a combination of mushrooms and lentils for a vegetarian-friendly sloppy joe.
• Spicy Option: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the meat mixture for an extra kick of heat.
• Garlic Butter Buns: For an even more indulgent flavor, brush the hoagie buns with melted garlic butter before broiling.
• Add Veggies: Include other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to make this dish even more nutritious.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover sloppy joe mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the sloppy joe mixture in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much. If reheating the entire sandwich, wrap it in foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or until heated through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes! You can use provolone, cheddar, or even Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can make the sloppy joe filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just assemble the sandwiches and broil them when ready to serve.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free? No, this recipe contains hoagie buns, which are typically made with wheat flour. However, you can use gluten-free buns as a substitute.
4. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe? Yes, you can cook the beef, onion, and pepper mixture in a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours. Add the sauce and seasoning toward the end, and broil the cheese-topped buns separately.
5. What can I serve with these sloppy joes? These sandwiches pair well with a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or crispy fries.
6. How can I make this recipe spicier? Add chili flakes, hot sauce, or sliced jalapeños to the meat mixture for added heat.
7. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the sloppy joe filling for up to 3 months. Just reheat it thoroughly before serving.
8. Can I use chicken or turkey instead of ground beef? Yes, ground chicken or turkey will work in place of beef for a leaner alternative.
9. Is this a good recipe for kids? Absolutely! This dish is cheesy and flavorful, making it a hit with kids. You can even adjust the seasoning to suit their taste.
10. Can I use a different type of bread? Yes, you can use other types of bread, such as a baguette, ciabatta, or even burger buns if you prefer.

Conclusion

These Italian Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes are a fantastic twist on the classic sloppy joe, bringing together the comforting flavors of garlic, marinara, and melted mozzarella cheese. Easy to prepare in just 25 minutes, it’s the perfect dinner for a busy weeknight or a casual gathering. Whether you stick to the original recipe or try one of the variations, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

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