Texas Toast Sloppy Joes
A comforting, satisfying twist on a classic favorite — perfect for weeknights, game days, or anytime you need a nostalgic bite.
Time Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: ~35 minutes
- Servings: 8 pieces (serves 4–6)
Ingredients
- 8 slices Texas Toast Garlic Bread (11.25 oz frozen package)
- 2 lbs Ground Beef (80/20)
- 1 packet Sloppy Joe Seasoning Mix (1.31 oz, e.g., McCormick) or homemade mix
- 24 oz Sloppy Joe Sauce (e.g., Manwich Original) or homemade version
- 2 cups shredded Mozzarella Cheese (or a cheddar/mozzarella blend)
- Fresh Parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Texas Toast
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with foil and lay frozen Texas toast slices spaced evenly apart.
- Bake according to package instructions (usually about 5–6 minutes, until lightly golden but not fully crisp). Set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
- While the toast is baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned and crumbled — about 8–10 minutes.
- Drain off excess grease.
3. Add Seasoning and Sauce
- Stir in Sloppy Joe seasoning mix and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in the Sloppy Joe sauce.
- Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the meat.
4. Assemble the Sloppy Joes
- Spoon generous portions of the hot meat mixture over each baked Texas toast slice.
- Sprinkle with about ¼ cup shredded cheese on each toast.
5. Bake to Melt the Cheese
- Return the assembled toasts to the oven.
- Bake at 400°F for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley if using.
- Serve immediately while hot and gooey.
Optional Add-Ons
- Sautéed bell peppers and onions for extra texture
- Spicy kick: add jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the beef
- Cheese variations: swap mozzarella for cheddar, provolone, or a spicy pepper jack
- Make it a meal: serve with coleslaw, roasted veggies, or baked beans
Q&A: Common Questions
Q: Can I use homemade Sloppy Joe seasoning and sauce?
A: Absolutely! Combine spices like paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, brown sugar, and mustard powder. For sauce, mix ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, vinegar, and a splash of hot sauce or honey.
Q: Can I use fresh (not frozen) Texas toast?
A: Yes — just slice thick-cut bread and butter it with garlic butter before toasting. Toast in the oven until golden, then follow the rest of the recipe.
Q: What if I don’t eat beef?
A: Substitute with ground turkey, chicken, plant-based meat, or lentils for a vegetarian version.
Q: How do I prevent the toast from getting soggy?
A: Pre-bake the toast until crisp before adding the meat. Also, simmer the Sloppy Joe mixture until it’s thick, not runny.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes. Prepare the meat mixture up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat, assemble, and bake just before serving.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Freeze the Sloppy Joe mixture alone (not assembled) for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before assembling on toast.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: In the oven at 350°F or in an air fryer for crispy toast.
- Microwave: OK for the meat, but the toast will soften.
Final Thoughts
Texas Toast Sloppy Joes are the perfect blend of nostalgic flavors and modern comfort. The crispy, buttery garlic bread paired with saucy beef and gooey cheese creates a flavor-packed dish that appeals to all ages. It’s affordable, customizable, and deeply satisfying.