Description
Garlic Bread Cheesy Sloppy Joe Bake is a comforting and hearty casserole that combines the rich flavors of ground beef and savory sloppy joe sauce with cheesy garlic bread. This easy-to-make baked dish is perfect for a family dinner, layering cubed bread with a tangy meat sauce and topped with melted cheddar cheese and buttery garlic seasoning. Enjoy the classic American comfort food vibe in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Bread & Cheese
- 4 cups cubed French bread or Italian bread
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Garlic Butter Topping
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook Ground Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the finely chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Then add ketchup, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and simmer for 5 minutes to combine the flavors. Remove from heat afterward.
- Combine Bread and Cheese: In a large bowl, toss the cubed French or Italian bread with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. This mixture will absorb the sloppy joe sauce and become nicely cheesy in the bake.
- Mix Meat Sauce and Bread: Pour the warm beef sauce mixture over the bread and cheese combination. Gently toss to coat all pieces evenly with the meat sauce.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the coated bread and meat mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese uniformly over the top.
- Add Garlic Butter Topping: In a small bowl, mix the melted unsalted butter with garlic powder. Drizzle this mixture evenly over the top of the cheese layer to create a flavorful garlic crust once baked.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and optionally garnish with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious, cheesy sloppy joe casserole.
Notes
- Using day-old bread works best as it holds up better and absorbs the meat sauce without becoming soggy.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter version of the dish.
- Add sliced pickles or diced jalapeños if you want an extra tangy or spicy kick.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
