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Italian Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Favorite


  • Author: Lana
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Enjoy a delicious twist on a classic with these Italian Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes. Featuring savory ground beef or turkey, aromatic vegetables, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, all served on crispy garlic butter rolls, this hearty meal is sure to please the whole family!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
  • 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 large Italian rolls or hoagie buns
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Butter for spreading on the rolls
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
  2. Add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the bell pepper softens and the garlic becomes fragrant.
  3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if using beef.
  4. Once the meat is browned, stir in the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to combine.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, garlic powder (if using), and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.
  7. Slice the Italian rolls or hoagie buns in half lengthwise. Spread a generous amount of the garlic butter mixture on each half.
  8. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  9. Place the buttered rolls on a baking sheet, cut side up. Bake for about 5-7 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
  10. Spoon a generous amount of the Sloppy Joe filling onto the bottom half of each toasted roll.
  11. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the filling, allowing it to melt slightly.
  12. Add grated Parmesan cheese on top of the mozzarella.
  13. Top with the other half of the roll.
  14. Optionally, place the assembled sandwiches back in the oven for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese further and crisp the rolls.
  15. Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute before serving.
  16. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with chips, salad, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Feel free to customize the filling by adding other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
  • For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the filling.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes