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Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread

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Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread combines two comfort foods into one delicious dish. Juicy, flavorful beef on crispy, buttery garlic bread makes for a perfect weeknight meal or party favorite. With simple ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly and is sure to be a hit. Every bite is packed with cheesy, garlicky goodness that everyone will love!
This recipe is easy to make! Follow the step-by-step photos and directions below. We include pro tips, tricks, and answers to frequently asked questions to help you get it just right.

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Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes take only thirty minutes to make and is perfect for quick dinners or parties. The combination of savory beef, cheesy goodness, and crispy garlic bread creates an irresistible flavor. This recipe stands out because it combines two comfort food classics into one satisfying dish. It’s simple, delicious, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser for any occasion!
Ingredients

What you'll need to make this Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread:
- 10-ounce frozen garlic bread loaf, thawed (Pepperidge Farms brand)
- 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
- ½ cup of chopped yellow onion
- 1 pound of lean ground beef
- 15-ounce can of sloppy Joe sauce (Manwich Original brand)
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 cups of shredded Colby jack cheese
- 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Pro Tip
There are various brands available for frozen garlic bread loaf. They vary in size between 8-16 ounces. If your loaf is on the smaller side, you may have some leftover sloppy Joe mixture. If your loaf is on the larger side, your layer of sloppy Joe mixture will be spread slightly thinner.
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize your Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread by swapping out ingredients and adding tasty extras! These simple changes make the recipe uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions:
- Substitute Ground Beef: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version while keeping the same hearty flavor.
- Add Veggies: Mix in bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions for extra flavor and texture in your Sloppy Joe filling.
- Substitute Garlic Bread: Swap traditional garlic bread with a baguette or ciabatta for a slightly different texture and crispiness.
These swaps keep the recipe fun and customizable! Substitutions and additions can easily be made while still maintaining the deliciousness of these Sloppy Joes on garlic bread.
How to Make Open-Faced Sloppy Joes
Follow along with our pictures, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips and tricks to make your Sloppy Joe French Bread perfect. Let’s get started and create this delicious meal today!
Pro Tip
If using a fresh loaf of French bread, slice it down the center and follow the recipe as for the thawed garlic bread. You can leave your loaf plain, or you can spread a couple of tablespoons of softened butter onto the sliced loaves and sprinkle about ½ teaspoon of garlic salt evenly over the butter before topping the bread with the sloppy Joe mixture.
You will need to check your bread at the 10-minute mark to be sure it is not getting too crispy on the bottom.
FIRST STEP: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil. Set it aside.
SECOND STEP: Remove your loaf of garlic bread from the freezer to allow it to thaw while you prepare the sloppy Joe mixture.
THIRD STEP: In a large skillet on medium-high heat, add the unsalted butter and chopped onions. Sauté the onions until soft and translucent.
FOURTH STEP: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet and brown ground beef for 5-6 minutes or until fully cooked and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat and liquids from the skillet.
FIFTH STEP: Add the sloppy Joe sauce, salt, and black pepper to the skillet of browned ground beef and onions, on medium heat-low heat. Stir and simmer the sloppy Joe meat mixture for 5 minutes.

SIXTH STEP: While your sauce is simmering, remove the loaf of garlic bread from the wrapper and open the loaf. You may need to use a butter knife to help separate the two sides of the loaf. Place both sides of the garlic bread, butter side up, onto the prepared baking sheet.
SEVENTH STEP: Divide the sloppy Joe mixture evenly between the two pieces of garlic loaf. Be sure to spread the mixture out into an even layer.
Pro Tip
When adding the sloppy Joe meat sauce to the garlic loaves, I use a large slotted spoon. This allows any excess sauce to stay in the pan. I think these work best when there is not too much excess sauce on the bread.

EIGHTH STEP: Top each of the loaves with 1 cup of shredded Colby jack cheese.
NINTH STEP: Bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Pro Tip
You may need to check your bake time at 10 to 12 minutes for smaller loaves, and larger loaves may need an additional 3 to 5 minutes. Remember, you are only melting your cheese and heating your bread. Your meat mixture is already fully cooked.

TENTH STEP: Allow the sloppy Joe loaves to cool slightly before garnishing with optional chopped fresh parsley and slicing the bread into 2-inch wide breadsticks.

How To Serve Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread
Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread is a versatile recipe that works for many occasions and is loved by both kids and adults. Here are a few ways to serve this delicious dish:
- Weeknight Dinners: This recipe is quick and easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Pair it with a simple green salad or potato wedges for a complete meal the whole family will love.
- Game Day or Parties: Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread is a fun, crowd-pleasing dish ideal for casual gatherings like game day or potlucks. Serve it alongside buffalo tenders or nachos for a winning combination that guests will rave about.
- The Best Comfort Food: Perfect for cooler months like fall or winter, this warm, cheesy dish offers ultimate comfort. Pair it with a bowl of tomato soup or creamy coleslaw for a cozy and hearty meal.

Why You'll Love This Baked Sloppy Joes Recipe
Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread is more than just a meal—it’s a beloved favorite for several tasty reasons:
- A Flavor Explosion: This recipe combines the savory, tangy flavors of classic sloppy joes with buttery, crispy garlic bread. The cheesy, garlicky goodness makes every bite a delicious treat.
- Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a fun party dish, this recipe fits any gathering. Kids and adults alike enjoy the familiar comfort of sloppy joes in a new, exciting way.
- Easy to Make, Big on Flavor: With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this recipe delivers maximum flavor in no time. It’s a family-friendly favorite that's sure to be a hit every time.
Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread isn’t just satisfying—it’s a fun, flavorful dish that will quickly become a go-to favorite!

Recipe FAQ
Can I use store-bought garlic bread for this recipe?
Yes, store-bought garlic bread works perfectly. It saves time and still adds great flavor and texture.
How long does it take to cook Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread?
This recipe takes about thirty minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy dinner option.
Can I make this recipe for a large crowd?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the ingredients to make enough Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread for a big gathering.
What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
Mozzarella or cheddar cheese melts beautifully, adding a gooey, delicious layer to the garlic bread topping.

Serving FAQ
Can I serve Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread at parties?
Yes, Garlic Bread meals are a perfect party dish! They're easy to make and everyone loves their comforting flavors.
How should I serve Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread for kids?
Cut the garlic bread into smaller, bite-sized portions. Kids will love the cheesy, savory taste and easy-to-eat pieces.
Can I serve this recipe for a casual dinner?
Absolutely! Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread is a great option for a casual family dinner or even a quick weeknight meal.
Is this recipe suitable for outdoor gatherings?
Yes, Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread is perfect for outdoor picnics or barbecues. It’s easy to serve and a crowd favorite!

Storage FAQ
Follow the directions, tips, and tricks below for optimal storage of your Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread. From making it ahead to reheating, we’ve got you covered to keep it delicious and fresh.
Can I prepare Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sloppy joe mixture in advance. Store it in the fridge until ready to assemble and bake.
What’s the best way to store leftover Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to two days.
Can I freeze Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread?
While it's best fresh, you can freeze the sloppy joe mixture separately in an airtight container for up to one month.
How do I reheat Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for quick serving.

Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread
Ingredients
- 10 ounces frozen garlic bread loaf (thawed (Pepperidge Farms brand))
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ cup chopped yellow onion
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 15 ounces sloppy Joe sauce (Manwich Original brand)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded Colby jack cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped (optional garnish))
DIRECTIONS
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil. Set aside.
- Remove your loaf of garlic bread from the freezer to allow it to thaw while you prepare the sloppy Joe mixture.
- In a large skillet, on medium-high heat, add the unsalted butter and chopped onions. Saute the onions until soft and translucent.
- Add the lean ground beef to the skillet and brown the meat for 5-6 minutes or until fully cooked and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat and liquids from the skillet.
- To the skillet of browned ground beef and onions, on medium heat-low heat, add the sloppy Joe sauce, salt, and black pepper. Stir and simmer the sloppy Joe mixture for 5 minutes.
- While your sauce is simmering, remove the loaf of garlic bread from the wrapper and open the loaf. You may need to use a butter knife to help separate the two sides of the loaf. Place both sides of the garlic bread, butter side up, onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Divide the sloppy Joe mixture evenly between the two pieces of garlic loaf. Be sure to spread the mixture out into an even layer.
- Top each of the loaves with 1 cup of the shredded Colby jack cheese.
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow the sloppy Joe loaves to cool slightly before garnishing with optional chopped fresh parsley and slicing the bread into 2-inch wide breadsticks.
Notes
- There are various brands available for frozen garlic bread loaf. They vary in size between 8 to 16 ounces. If your loaf is on the smaller side, you may have some leftover sloppy Joe mixture. If your loaf is on the larger side, your layer of sloppy Joe mixture will be spread slightly thinner.
- If using a fresh loaf of French bread, slice it down the center and follow the recipe as for the thawed garlic bread. You can leave your loaf plain, or you can spread a couple of tablespoons of softened butter onto the sliced loaves and sprinkle about ½ teaspoon of garlic salt evenly over the butter before topping the bread with the sloppy Joe mixture. You will need to check your bread at the 10-minute mark to be sure it is not getting too crispy on the bottom.
- When adding the sloppy Joe meat sauce to the garlic loaves, I use a large slotted spoon. This allows any excess sauce to stay in the pan. I think these work best when there is not too much excess sauce on the bread.
- You may need to check your bake time at 10 to 12 minutes for smaller loaves, and larger loaves may need an additional 3 to 5 minutes. Remember, you are only melting your cheese and heating your bread. Your meat mixture is already fully cooked.







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