Cheesy Sloppy Joe Garlic Bread (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Garlic Bread

01 - 1 ciabatta loaf split in half lengthwise
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - Salt and pepper to taste
05 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
06 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

→ For the Sloppy Joe Mixture

07 - 2 teaspoons olive oil
08 - 500g ground beef
09 - 120g finely diced yellow onion
10 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
11 - 375ml ketchup
12 - 60ml water
13 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar
14 - 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
15 - 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
16 - Salt and pepper to taste

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 180°C and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
02 - Spread each ciabatta half with softened butter and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
03 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat.
04 - Add diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
05 - Stir in ketchup, water, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, until the sauce has thickened to desired consistency.
06 - Spread the sloppy joe mixture evenly over the prepared garlic bread halves. Top generously with shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
07 - Place assembled garlic bread on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, until cheese is completely melted and bubbly with light golden edges.
08 - Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then slice into portions. Serve hot, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired.

# Notes:

01 - For a spicier version, add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
02 - This dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.