Simple Sloppy Joe French Bread
This Simple Sloppy Joe French Bread is an easy, flavorful twist on a classic favorite with a crispy crusty loaf and savory beef filling.
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Baking Sheet
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion diced
- 1 small green bell pepper diced
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce ensure it contains no anchovies if preferred
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 loaf French bread
- 1 cup shredded cheese optional, such as cheddar or mozzarella
Instructions
Prepare the Beef Mixture
- Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to keep the mixture from being greasy.
Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and are fragrant.
Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce
- In the same skillet, stir in ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine and let the mixture simmer for 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Prepare the French Bread
- While the beef mixture simmers, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the loaf of French bread in half lengthwise. If you like, you can toast the bread lightly in the oven for about 5 minutes to add extra crunch.
Assemble the Sandwich
- Spoon the sloppy joe filling evenly over the bottom half of the French bread. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top if you’re using it. Place the other half of the bread on top to form a sandwich.
Bake and Serve
- Place the assembled sandwich on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is warmed through. Slice into individual servings and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Simmer the sauce until thick to avoid soggy bread.
- Drain excess fat from beef to prevent greasiness.
- Use crusty French bread for the best texture and crunch.
- Try different cheeses like pepper jack or Swiss for varied flavors.
- Store leftover beef mixture separately from bread to keep it fresh longer.