Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread
A mouthwatering twist on the classic Sloppy Joe, Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes bring together savory beef, melted cheese, and the irresistible crunch of garlic bread. Perfect for a quick family dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is both comforting and impressive.

Golden garlic bread forms the perfect base for the rich, tangy Sloppy Joe filling, topped with gooey mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Every bite is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.
Key Ingredients for Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes
The Bread – The Foundation of Flavor
- Italian bread – Provides the sturdy base with a light, airy crumb.
- Unsalted butter – Adds richness while ensuring a golden, crispy crust.
- Garlic salt – Elevates the bread with a burst of aromatic garlicky goodness.
Sloppy Joe Mixture – The Star of the Dish
- Ground beef – The hearty, savory foundation of the filling.
- Yellow onion – Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor that enhances the beef.
- Ketchup – Brings sweetness and tanginess to the mix.
- Yellow mustard – Adds a subtle zesty kick.
- Garlic powder – Infuses the mixture with a warm, savory undertone.
- Kosher salt and black pepper – Perfectly balances and seasons the filling.
Toppings – The Cheesy Crown
- Mozzarella cheese – Provides a creamy, melty texture.
- Sharp cheddar cheese – Delivers a rich, bold flavor.
- Fresh parsley – A vibrant garnish to complete the dish.
How to Assemble Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes
Easy and Fun Assembly for Maximum Flavor
- Prepare the garlic bread: Spread the butter and garlic salt mixture over halved Italian bread.
- Cook the filling: Brown ground beef with onions, then simmer with seasonings for a flavor-packed mix.
- Assemble and bake: Layer the sloppy joe mixture and cheese onto the garlic bread, then bake until golden and bubbly.
The result? A satisfying, cheesy masterpiece that’s ready in under 30 minutes!

Recipe Tips for Success
For perfectly golden garlic bread, ensure the butter is evenly spread to avoid any dry spots. When simmering the sloppy joe mixture, let it thicken slightly for a richer, more cohesive filling. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce.
Experiment with toppings! Swap the mozzarella or cheddar for provolone or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile. Adding sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling can also bring an exciting twist.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
For leftovers, store the assembled portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Avoid microwaving to maintain the bread’s crispy texture.
Enjoy this creative take on a family classic, and watch it become a new favorite at your dinner table!

Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread Recipe
Ingredients
Bread:
- ½ cup 1 stick / 113 g unsalted butter, softened
- 1 loaf Italian bread
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
Sloppy Joe Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup water
- ¾ cup 180 g ketchup
- ¼ cup yellow onion chopped
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Topping:
- 1 cup 113 g shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup 113 g shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Slice the Italian bread lengthwise into two halves and place them on the prepared baking sheet, cut side up.
- Combine the softened butter and garlic salt in a small bowl. Evenly spread the mixture over the cut sides of the bread. Set aside.
- In a medium skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion until the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir the garlic powder, mustard, ketchup, kosher salt, black pepper, and water into the cooked beef. Mix thoroughly to combine and allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Spoon the sloppy joe mixture evenly over the buttered bread halves. Top with shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Slice into individual portions, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.