Open-Faced Sloppy Joe Melts

Open-Faced Sloppy Joe Melts

Introduction

Open-Faced Sloppy Joe Melts offer a delightful twist on the traditional sloppy joe by serving it on a slice of toasted bread, topped with melted cheese. This dish is a fantastic quick meal option that combines the comforting flavors of a classic sloppy joe with the crispy texture of toasted bread and the gooey goodness of melted cheese. It’s perfect for a casual dinner or as a hearty snack during game nights.

Ingredients

• For the Sloppy Joe Mixture:
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Additional Ingredients:
  • 4 large slices of Italian bread or sourdough
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

1. Cook the Sloppy Joe Mixture:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
   • Add onion, garlic, and green bell pepper to the skillet and cook until vegetables are soft.
   • Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and mustard powder. Simmer for about 10 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Prepare the Bread:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Place the slices of bread on a baking sheet and lightly toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes until just crispy.
3. Assemble the Melts:
   • Spoon a generous amount of the sloppy joe mixture over each slice of toasted bread.
   • Top with a mix of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
4. Bake:
   • Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve:
   • Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of red chili flakes if desired.

Conclusion

These Open-Faced Sloppy Joe Melts are a simple and satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone. They are quick to prepare, making them ideal for those busy weeknights when you need a comforting meal without a lot of fuss. The combination of savory meat, rich sauce, crispy bread, and melted cheese creates a perfect harmony of textures and flavors.

Enjoy creating this comforting, cheesy delight and watch it become a new favorite!