Ingredients:

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 loaf (12 inches) French bread
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp dried parsley
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Instructions:

  1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until no pink remains, then drain the excess fat.
  2. Stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire, and garlic powder; simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  3. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and slice the French bread lengthwise.
  4. Mix the softened butter, minced garlic, and parsley, then spread this mixture generously over the cut sides of the bread.
  5. Bake the bread face-up for 5-7 minutes until the edges are golden.
  6. Remove the bread from the oven and spoon the thickened sloppy joe mixture evenly across the toasted surfaces.
  7. Top with a heavy layer of mozzarella and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
  8. Return to the oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and mahogany-colored spots appear.