Open-face garlic toast sloppy joes recipe
Craving a quick and delicious twist on a classic? These Open-Face Garlic Toast Sloppy Joes are a hit for both kids and adults. With savory ground beef, rich spaghetti sauce, and melty mozzarella, each bite is packed with flavor and comfort.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines the ease of frozen garlic toast with the heartiness of homemade sloppy joe filling. The toasted base adds a satisfying crunch, while the cheesy topping makes every bite irresistible.
Ready in under 30 minutes, these Open-Face Garlic Toast Sloppy Joes will quickly become a go-to favorite. Add fresh parsley for a pop of color and enjoy a fun twist on a classic dish!
Open-Face Garlic Toast Sloppy Joes Ingredients
Lean Ground Beef: The heart of these sloppy joes, offering a rich, savory base that balances perfectly with the tangy sauce.
Spaghetti Sauce: Adds a robust depth of flavor, bringing a touch of sweetness and acidity that melds beautifully with the beef.
Frozen Garlic Toast: A crispy, buttery foundation that elevates the dish, providing the perfect vehicle to soak up the saucy goodness.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts to perfection, adding a creamy, gooey layer that ties all the flavors together for a delightful finish.
Fresh Parsley: A bright, herbaceous garnish that adds a hint of freshness, contrasting the rich, hearty flavors.
Open-Face Garlic Toast Sloppy Joes Recipe
Recipe Tips
- Choose the Right Ground Beef: For a leaner dish, opt for ground beef that is 90% lean or higher. This minimizes excess grease, making the sloppy joes lighter while still retaining a rich flavor. If using a higher-fat ground beef, ensure you drain off the fat after browning to prevent the dish from becoming too greasy. The right balance ensures that the meat sauce clings perfectly to the garlic toast, providing a satisfying bite without being overly heavy.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: Depending on your preference, you can modify the thickness of the meat sauce. If you like a thicker sauce, simmer it a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid. For a saucier version, add a bit more spaghetti sauce or a splash of water. This flexibility allows you to cater to different textures, ensuring the sauce pairs well with the crispy garlic toast without becoming too runny or overly dry.
- Perfectly Toasted Garlic Bread: The garlic toast serves as the base of this dish, so achieving the right texture is key. Bake the garlic toast according to the package directions but keep a close eye on it to ensure it’s golden and crispy on the outside, yet still soft enough to soak up the meat sauce. If you like a bit more crunch, consider broiling it for the last 1-2 minutes, but be sure not to burn it.
What to Serve with Open-Face Garlic Toast Sloppy Joes
- Simple Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the sloppy joes. The acidity of the dressing complements the savory meat sauce, making for a refreshing side that adds a light, crunchy contrast.
- Steamed Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans are great options. These veggies add a healthy, vibrant element to the meal without overpowering the main dish. Lightly seasoned with a bit of butter or olive oil, they offer a wholesome side that complements the hearty, cheesy flavors of the sloppy joes.
- Potato Wedges: For a heartier option, serve alongside crispy potato wedges. Season them with garlic powder, paprika, and a touch of salt before roasting until golden brown. The soft interior and crispy exterior of the wedges pair perfectly with the meaty, cheesy flavors of the open-face garlic toast sloppy joes.
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any bread that holds up well under the meat sauce. French bread, ciabatta, or even thick slices of sourdough can be great alternatives. Just ensure that the bread is sturdy enough to support the sauce and toppings. - How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this recipe vegetarian, replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils. Simply cook them the same way as the ground beef and adjust the seasoning if needed. The rest of the recipe remains the same. - Can I prepare the meat sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the meat sauce a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce on the stovetop and prepare the garlic toast fresh for a quick meal. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
To reheat leftovers, it’s best to warm the meat sauce separately in a skillet or microwave until hot. Toast fresh garlic bread, then assemble the dish with the warm meat sauce and cheese on top. This helps maintain the toast’s crispness.
Open-Face Garlic Toast Sloppy Joes
Ingredients
- 8 slices of frozen garlic toast
- 1 pound of lean ground beef
- 2 cups of spaghetti sauce adjusted to your preferred consistency
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- Freshly chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the frozen garlic toast packaging.
- In a skillet set over medium-high heat, crumble the ground beef and cook until it is evenly browned. Drain any excess fat, then mix in the spaghetti sauce. Allow the sauce to simmer for 7-10 minutes, stirring from time to time.
- While the sauce is simmering, arrange the garlic toast on a baking sheet and bake as instructed on the package until both sides are golden and crisp.
- Spoon the simmered meat sauce over each piece of garlic toast and generously sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese. Serve immediately while hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
