Name: French Bread Sloppy Joe Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 5
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup onion, (chopped); 1/4 cup green bell pepper; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 15 oz tomato sauce; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 2 teaspoons Worcestershire Sauce; 1 teaspoons seasoning salt; 1 loaf French bread; 2 cups Colby jack cheese , (shredded)

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Dinner time can sometimes feel stressful, can’t it? But don’t worry, this French Bread Sloppy Joe Recipe will impress everyone. With busy schedules, quick and tasty meals are often preferred. Using simple ingredients, this recipe will save your evening. Plus, cleanup afterward is super easy, which feels like a win. Keep reading, and you’ll love how easily this dish comes together!

Life gets expensive, doesn’t it? That’s why finding cheap dinner ideas can be such a lifesaver. Meals like this are budget-friendly but still feel homemade. You’ll save money without sacrificing flavor, which matters when feeding your crew. Plus, with simple pantry staples, you won’t need extra grocery trips. Keep this recipe on hand, and you’ll always have an easy, affordable solution for dinner stress!

Saving money on groceries doesn’t have to be stressful, especially with recipes like this in your meal plan! By planning this recipe into your week, you can skip extra grocery trips and stretch your budget without sacrificing taste. Even picky eaters will love it, which feels like a huge win when feeding the family. Plus, with how quick and easy it is, you’ll have more time for what really matters—not stressing over dinner.

We have tons of different ways to make sloppy joes here on the site.

Budget Friendly Dinner

Meal planning gets even easier when you have a variety of budget-friendly options to rely on. This recipe that starts with a $1 fresh french bread from HEB is awesome, but don’t stop there! Budget chicken recipes can turn simple ingredients into hearty dishes the whole family will love. Slow cooker freezer meals save time and money, giving you ready-to-cook options on busy nights. Canned tuna recipes are another wallet-friendly secret, perfect for quick lunches or dinners that don’t skimp on flavor. And who doesn’t love cheap rice recipes? They’re filling, versatile, and can stretch any meal further.

With all these ideas, you can build a meal plan that’s affordable, stress-free, and packed with options your family will devour.

Ingredients Needed To Make This French Bread Sloppy Joe Recipe

To make this affordable meal idea, you’ll need a handful of simple, budget-friendly ingredients that come together for a quick, satisfying dinner. Each ingredient plays a role in creating a flavor-packed recipe the whole family will love, without breaking the bank. With these pantry staples and a loaf of French bread, you’ll have a dish that’s big on taste and light on cost.

Ingredients List and Their Significance

1 pound ground beef
This is the heart of the recipe. It provides the rich, savory base for the Sloppy Joe filling.
1/2 cup onion, chopped
Onions add a sweet yet sharp flavor that enhances the filling and balances the tomato sauce.
1/4 cup green bell pepper
The peppers bring a slight crunch and a mild, earthy taste that complements the meat.
1 teaspoon minced garlic
Garlic infuses the recipe with an aromatic depth that ties all the flavors together.
15 oz tomato sauce
This forms the sauce, giving the filling that classic, tangy Sloppy Joe taste.
1 tablespoon brown sugar
Adds a hint of sweetness that balances the savory components of the dish.
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
This ingredient gives the recipe a rich, umami punch that elevates the overall flavor.
1 teaspoon seasoning salt
Essential for seasoning the meat and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
1 loaf French bread
French bread serves as the perfect crispy yet soft base, holding up the filling perfectly.
2 cups Colby jack cheese, shredded
Melted cheese adds a creamy, gooey layer of deliciousness that makes this dish extra indulgent.

These staples work together to create a hearty meal that’s both easy to prepare and budget-friendly. You’ll skip pricey dinners while serving up something that feels homemade and totally satisfying!

This sloppy joe recipe is more than just a simple weeknight meal—it’s your secret weapon for those evenings when life feels chaotic. Imagine skipping the drive-thru and instead serving up something hot, homemade, and packed with flavor in almost no time. This dish isn’t just easy to make; it’s a crowd-pleaser that feels like a little win at the dinner table. It’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone together and reminds you that dinner doesn’t have to be fancy to be memorable. Give it a try, and you’ll see how quickly this becomes a go-to in your weekly rotation!

While you’re here, check out this pistachio poke cake recipe. It’s so good and would pair perfectly with this dinner if you’re looking for something to satisfy a sweet tooth!

Tips for Making Open Face Sloppy Joe’s on French Bread

To take your Sloppy Joes to the next level, we’ve rounded up some simple tips that will ensure your dinner is packed with flavor, has the perfect texture, and is incredibly easy to prepare.

Choose the Right Bread
Go for a fresh loaf of French bread with a crispy crust and soft interior. This structure helps hold the filling without getting soggy. Day-old bread works great too, as it’s slightly firmer and holds up well under the toppings.
Cut Bread Evenly
Slice the French bread lengthwise for an open-faced style. Aim for even, flat slices to prevent toppings from sliding off. Cutting it into smaller portions before assembling makes serving and eating easier, especially for kids.
Toast the Bread First
For extra crunch and to avoid sogginess, lightly toast the bread. Brush it with a thin layer of olive oil or butter and pop it in the oven or under the broiler for a few minutes. This creates a sturdy base for the Sloppy Joe filling.
Cook the Filling Slowly for Maximum Flavor
Whether you’re using ground beef or a substitute, take your time cooking the Sloppy Joe filling. Allow the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings to simmer until thickened, which enhances the flavor and makes it less messy to eat.
Go Generous with the Cheese
Sprinkle Colby jack cheese generously on top of the Sloppy Joe mix. For an extra cheesy kick, layer some cheese under the filling as well. It melts beautifully, creating a creamy, gooey layer of indulgence.
Use a Baking Sheet for Easy Assembly
Once the bread is toasted and topped with the meat filling and cheese, place it on a baking sheet. Throw it in the oven at 375°F for around 5-8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Add Toppings for Extra Flavor
Customize your Sloppy Joes with toppings like diced onions, pickles, or jalapeños for added crunch and zing. A drizzle of hot sauce or barbecue sauce can also elevate the flavor profile.
Serve with a Side
Pair your open-faced Sloppy Joes with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or French fries for a complete meal. This keeps dinner balanced and stretches the recipe further.
Make It Fun for Kids
Get the kids involved by letting them help assemble their portion. You can even cut the French bread into fun shapes before toasting and topping for a creative family dinner experience.
Store and Reheat Properly
If you have leftovers, store the prepared filling and bread separately to prevent sogginess. Reheat the filling on the stovetop and toast the bread fresh before serving again for the best results.
Experiment with Different Cheeses
Don’t stop at Colby jack! Try mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of your favorites for unique flavor combinations that keep this dish exciting every time.
Serve Hot and Fresh
Open-faced Sloppy Joes are best enjoyed straight out of the oven when the bread is crisp and the cheese is perfectly melted. Serve immediately for maximum flavor and texture.

With these tips, your open-faced French bread Sloppy Joes will be irresistibly tasty, easy to enjoy, and a new family favorite!

Is Amazon a good place to buy kitchen tools and supplies?

Amazon is a popular choice for buying kitchen tools and supplies, and it has its pros and cons. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Pros:

Wide Selection: Amazon offers a vast range of kitchen tools, from basic utensils to high-end gadgets, often with multiple brands and price points to choose from.
Convenience: With fast shipping (especially with Prime) and the ability to shop from home, it’s incredibly convenient.
Customer Reviews: You can read thousands of reviews to gauge the quality and performance of a product before purchasing.
Competitive Pricing: Amazon often has deals, discounts, and competitive pricing compared to brick-and-mortar stores.
Easy Returns: Their return policy is generally straightforward, making it less risky to try new products.

Cons:

Quality Variability: With so many sellers, the quality of products can vary widely. Some items may not match their descriptions or photos.
Counterfeit Products: There have been instances of counterfeit or knockoff items being sold, especially from third-party sellers.
Overwhelming Choices: The sheer number of options can make it hard to decide, and not all products are curated for quality.
Lack of Hands-On Experience: Unlike shopping in a store, you can’t physically inspect or test the product before buying.

Tips for Buying Kitchen Tools on Amazon:

Stick to Reputable Brands: Look for well-known brands with a history of quality.
Check Verified Reviews: Focus on reviews marked as “Verified Purchase” for more reliable feedback.
Compare Prices: Check other retailers to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Read the Q&A Section: Many buyers ask and answer questions about the product, which can provide additional insights.
Be Wary of Third-Party Sellers: If possible, buy directly from Amazon or trusted sellers to avoid counterfeit products.

Overall, Amazon can be a great place to buy kitchen tools and supplies if you do a bit of research and shop carefully.

Commercial Quality Baking Sheet Pan Set, Natural Aluminum Cookie Sheet, Umite Chef Warp Resistant Nonstick Baker’s Half Sheet Pan, Large Thick Cookie Tray Pans for Baking, Roasting(2 Pack, 18X13Inch)Reynolds Kitchens Unbleached Parchment Paper Roll, 45 Square Feet KitchenStar 16-Inch Pizza Cutter Rocker Blade – Sharp Stainless Steel Slicer Knife, Protective Cover, Dishwasher Safe, Large – Professional Pizza Oven Accessories KitchenAid Classic Pizza Wheel with Sharp Blade For Cutting Through Crusts, Pies and More, Built In Finger Guard for Safety and Comfort Grip to Protect Fingers, Dishwasher Safe, 9-Inch, Aqua Sky Spring Chef Professional Cheese Grater – Stainless Steel, XL Size, 4 Sides – Perfect Box Grater for Parmesan Cheese, Vegetables, Ginger – Dishwasher Safe – Black

Is it a good idea to use parchment paper when baking these french bread sloppy joes?

Cooking this on parchment paper is a game-changer, especially when it comes to cleanup. Parchment paper creates a non-stick surface that prevents the savory filling and melted cheese from sticking to your baking sheet. Even when the cheese bubbles and oozes, it stays contained on the parchment, keeping your pan spotless. This eliminates the need for heavy scrubbing or soaking, saving you valuable time after dinner. Additionally, parchment paper makes transferring the assembled Sloppy Joes a breeze, helping maintain their shape and presentation. Simply toss the parchment when you’re done, and you’re left with a quick cleanup and more time to relax!

How far in advance can I make these open-faced sandwiches?

When it comes to preparing this in advance, the best strategy is to focus on the filling. Avoid assembling the sandwiches until you’re ready to cook, as placing the filling on the bread too early will make it soggy. Here are some tips to prepare, store, and reheat the filling to ensure your meal turns out fresh and delicious every time:

1. Cook the Filling in Advance

Prepare the Sloppy Joe meat mixture as usual, cooking it thoroughly in your skillet. Once done, allow it to cool completely. Cooling is key to avoiding moisture buildup when storing it.

2. Store It Properly for Maximum Freshness

Transfer the cooled filling to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to prepare it even further in advance, the filling freezes well. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, label it with the date, and freeze for up to 2 months. This keeps the flavors intact while preserving its quality.

3. Reheat Without Drying It Out

When you’re ready to use the filling, reheat it gently to preserve its saucy consistency. For best results, warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or a little extra sauce if it looks too thick after reheating. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between to maintain an even temperature.

4. Keep the Bread Fresh for Assembly

While the filling is storing, leave the French bread untouched until the last minute. Slice it right before use, and avoid layering the filling until just before you’re ready to bake or serve. This keeps the bread crisp and prevents soggy bottoms.

By handling only the filling in advance and assembling the Sloppy Joes at the last minute, you can enjoy a freshly baked, perfectly textured meal. This method is not only practical but ensures every bite is as delicious as the first!

Sloppy Joe Recipes

Sloppy Joes have long been a comfort food favorite, and what makes them truly special is how versatile they are! Whether you’re sticking with the classic version or adding your own creative twist, Sloppy Joes can be enjoyed in so many different forms. Here are some fun and delicious variations to inspire your next meal:

Sloppy Joes are more than just a quick dinner idea; they’re a canvas for creativity. From skillet to casserole to inventive bread swaps, there are countless ways to make it your own. And even if you’re feeling adventurous, why not mix it up with different proteins, seasonings, or toppings?

Try out one of these recipes and discover which becomes your new favorite. Better yet, experiment with your own twists and turn ordinary Sloppy Joes into an extraordinary creation. No matter how you make them, Sloppy Joes are guaranteed to satisfy and bring a little fun to the table!