TEXAS TOAST SLOPPY

Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Sloppy Joe Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
Step 2: Prepare the Texas Toast
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the garlic powder and dried parsley until well combined.
Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly on both sides of each slice of bread.
Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 3: Assemble the Texas Toast Sloppy Joes
Once the Texas toast is ready, spoon a generous amount of the sloppy joe filling onto half of the bread slices.
Top with the remaining slices to form sandwiches.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes and Tips
Lean Ground Beef: Using lean ground beef will reduce the amount of excess fat you need to drain.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or carrots to the sloppy joe mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Garlic Butter: If you love garlic, you can add a bit more garlic powder to the butter mixture for an extra punch of flavor.
Recipe Variations and Swaps
Cheesy Texas Toast Sloppy Joes: Add a slice of cheddar or provolone cheese to each sandwich for a melty, cheesy twist.
Turkey Sloppy Joes: Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option that’s just as tasty.
Spicy Sloppy Joes: Add a diced jalapeño or a splash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the sloppy joe filling and Texas toast separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The filling will keep for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the filling in a skillet over medium heat and toast the bread in the oven or on a griddle until heated through.

Suggested Pairings
Pair your Texas Toast Sloppy Joes with classic sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or sweet potato fries. For a refreshing beverage, try serving with iced tea or a cold soda.

FAQ
Q: Can I make the sloppy joe filling ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stove before serving.

Q: Can I use store-bought Texas toast?
A: Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought Texas toast is a convenient alternative.

Q: Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use plant-based ground meat or lentils as a substitute for the ground beef to make a vegetarian version.

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