Cheesy Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread

Ingredients

For the Garlic Bread:

• 1 ciabatta loaf, split in half lengthwise
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

For the Sloppy Joe Mixture:

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup finely diced yellow onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups ketchup
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Garlic Bread:

Slice the ciabatta loaf in half lengthwise. Spread each half with the softened butter, then sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

3. Cook the Ground Beef:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess fat.

4. Add the Aromatics:

Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

5. Make the Sauce:

Stir in the ketchup, water, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.

6. Assemble the Garlic Bread:

Spread the sloppy joe mixture evenly over the prepared garlic bread halves. Top with shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese.

7. Bake:

Place the garlic bread on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Serve:

Remove from the oven, slice into pieces, and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy this delicious Cheesy Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread as a fun twist on a classic favorite!