Open-Face Garlic Toast Sloppy Joes combine the savory goodness of classic Sloppy Joes with the crispy, buttery delight of garlic toast. Here’s a recipe to make this delicious fusion:

Ingredients:

For the Garlic Toast:

• 4 slices of thick bread (e.g., sourdough, Italian, or French bread)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Sloppy Joes:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Garlic Toast:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley (if using), and salt until well combined.
• Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly on one side of each bread slice.
• Place the bread slices, buttered side up, on a baking sheet.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.

2. Make the Sloppy Joe Mixture:

• While the garlic toast is baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
• Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
• Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and dried oregano.
• Simmer the mixture on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assemble the Open-Face Sloppy Joes:

• Once the garlic toast is ready, remove it from the oven.
• Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture generously over the garlic toast slices.
• Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes to heat the topping through.

4. Serve:

• Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
• Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired.

Tips:

• Add Cheese: For extra richness, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the Sloppy Joe mixture before returning it to the oven.
• Customize: Feel free to add other toppings like pickles or sliced jalapeños for added flavor.

This recipe combines the classic flavors of Sloppy Joes with the irresistible crunch of garlic toast, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. Enjoy!