Ingredients
For the Sloppy Joe Filling:
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup tomato sauce
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garlic Bread:
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
1 loaf of French bread or Italian bread, cut into thick slices
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Prepare the Sloppy Joe Filling:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is thickened and flavorful.
Make the Garlic Bread:
While the sloppy joe filling is simmering, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley (if using).
Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly on each slice of bread. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the bread is golden and crispy.
Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
Spoon a generous amount of the sloppy joe filling onto each slice of garlic bread. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley or cheese if desired.
Enjoy.