Cheesy Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread

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Instructions

1. Prep and Preheat:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for effortless cleanup.

2. Create the Garlic Bread Canvas:
Place the two halves of ciabatta bread cut-side up on your prepared baking sheet. Spread the softened butter evenly over the entire surface of each half. Sprinkle generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set this aside while you create the flavorful topping.

3. Cook the Beef and Aromatics:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Carefully drain off any excess fat to prevent a soggy bread later.

4. Build the Flavor:
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, until it has softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

5. Simmer the Signature Sauce:
To the beef mixture, add the ketchup, water, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until perfectly combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened beautifully.

6. Assemble the Masterpiece:
Evenly spoon the warm, saucy sloppy joe mixture over both halves of your prepared garlic bread. Top with a generous, blanket-like layer of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.

7. Bake to Perfection:
Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the edges of the bread are golden and the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and just starting to get those delicious golden-brown spots.

8. Serve!
Remove from the oven and let it cool for 2-3 minutes to set. Slice into generous portions, garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you like, and serve immediately!

Chef’s Notes for Success

  • Bread is Key: A sturdy, crusty bread like ciabatta or a French baguette is essential for holding up to the hearty topping without getting soggy.

  • Get Creative with Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or top with sliced jalapeños before baking.

  • Shortcut Friendly: Feel free to use pre-shredded cheese from the bag to make this recipe even quicker on a busy night.

  • Make it a Meal: Serve with a simple side salad or some crispy potato wedges to round out the feast.

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