I love making this recipe when I want something hearty, comforting, and easy without spending too much time in the kitchen. French Bread Sloppy Joes combine the rich, saucy goodness of a classic sloppy joe with the crispy, bakery-style texture of French bread. It feels casual but still special enough to serve for family dinners or relaxed gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it turns simple ingredients into a filling, crowd-pleasing meal. The French bread holds up perfectly to the savory meat mixture, so it never feels soggy. I also enjoy how flexible it is, since I can adjust the seasoning or toppings depending on what I have on hand.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 French bread loaf
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon yellow mustard
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). I slice the French bread loaf in half lengthwise and set it aside.
In a large skillet, I heat the olive oil over medium heat. I add the diced onion and cook it until soft and translucent. Then I stir in the garlic and cook it briefly until fragrant.
I add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once fully cooked, I drain any excess grease.
I stir in the ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper. I let the mixture simmer for about 5–7 minutes until thick and flavorful.
I place the bread halves on a baking sheet and spoon the sloppy joe mixture evenly over both sides. If I want extra richness, I sprinkle cheese on top.
I bake the bread for 10–12 minutes, just until the bread is crisp and the cheese is melted. I slice and serve it warm.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 4 to 6 servings from one loaf, depending on how large I slice it.
Prep time is around 10 minutes, cooking time is about 20 minutes, and total time comes to roughly 30 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option. For a spicy version, I add a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce. When I want extra texture, I mix in diced bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover meat mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, then spoon it onto fresh bread. I prefer not to store the assembled bread, as it can become soft.
FAQs
Can I make the sloppy joe mixture ahead of time?
I often prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.
What type of bread works best?
I like using classic French bread because it stays firm, but Italian bread works well too.
Can I freeze the sloppy joe filling?
I freeze the cooked filling in a sealed container for up to 2 months and thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Do I have to add cheese?
I consider cheese optional. Sometimes I skip it for a more traditional sloppy joe flavor.
How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?
I lightly toast the bread before adding the filling if I want extra crispness.
Conclusion
I keep coming back to French Bread Sloppy Joes because they are simple, satisfying, and adaptable. This recipe lets me enjoy bold, comforting flavors with minimal effort, making it a dependable favorite in my kitchen.
French Bread Sloppy Joes are a fun and easy twist on the classic dish, featuring a savory, saucy meat mixture served over crispy, toasted French bread. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:4 to 6 servings
Ingredients
1 French bread loaf
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon yellow mustard
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice French bread loaf in half lengthwise and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
Place bread halves on a baking sheet and spoon the sloppy joe mixture evenly over each half.
Sprinkle with cheese if using.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the bread is crisp and cheese is melted.
Slice and serve warm.
Notes
Use ground turkey for a lighter version.
Add chili flakes or hot sauce for heat.
Mix in bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture.
Lightly toast the bread before adding filling to prevent sogginess.
Only store the meat mixture separately for best results.
