Easy Italian Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes for a Crowd-Pleasing Meal

Elevate your weeknight dinner game with these Italian Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes! This dish combines the classic, saucy flavors of sloppy joes with the irresistible crunch and aroma of garlic bread, all while staying WW-friendly. Perfect for family meals or casual gatherings, this recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Ingredients

For the Sloppy Joe Filling:

• 1 lb 96% lean ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 small green bell pepper, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1/4 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Garlic Bread:

• 6 light sandwich rolls or whole-grain rolls
• 2 tbsp light butter, softened
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Garnishes:

• Shredded part-skim mozzarella (1/4 cup for extra flavor, ~1 WW point per serving)
• Fresh basil leaves

Instructions

Prepare the Sloppy Joe Filling

1. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
2. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until vegetables are softened, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
4. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful.

Make the Garlic Bread

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix the light butter, minced garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
3. Split the sandwich rolls in half and spread the garlic butter mixture evenly on each half. Place the rolls on the prepared baking sheet, cut side up.
4. Bake for 5–7 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.

Assemble the Italian Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes

1. Spoon the prepared sloppy joe filling generously onto the bottom halves of the garlic bread rolls.
2. Optionally, sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and top with fresh basil leaves for an extra Italian flair.
3. Place the top halves of the garlic bread rolls on each sandwich and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving)

• Calories: ~280
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 4g
• WW Points: ~6 (based on ingredients and plan)

Why This Recipe is Amazing

1. Comfort Food Made Healthier: Enjoy the nostalgic flavors of sloppy joes without the guilt.
2. Garlic Bread Twist: Adding garlic bread elevates this dish into a flavorful and satisfying meal.
3. Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.

Tips for Success

1. Use Lean Beef: Opt for 96% lean ground beef to keep the points low while maintaining flavor.
2. Customize Your Rolls: Swap regular rolls for gluten-free or keto-friendly ones to suit your dietary preferences.
3. Batch Cook the Filling: Make a double batch of the sloppy joe mixture and freeze for future meals.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side of steamed green beans or a crisp Italian salad for a balanced meal.
• Serve with roasted zucchini fries or air-fried sweet potato wedges for added crunch.

These Italian Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes are a delightful fusion of comfort and sophistication. With bold flavors, crispy garlic bread, and a hearty filling, this dish is sure to become a new favorite. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s a satisfying meal that everyone will love—while keeping your wellness goals on track.