Looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that’s better than sloppy joes? These Sloppy Italians are a delicious twist on the classic sandwich. Featuring a rich and meaty marinara sauce topped with a creamy and cheesy layer, it’s like a lasagna in a bun. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe is easy to prepare and guaranteed to please.
Why You’ll Love This Sloppy Italians Recipe
- Classic Italian Twist: Combines the comfort of Sloppy Joes with the flavors of Italian cuisine.
- Creamy and Cheesy: Ricotta, mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses make this dish irresistibly decadent.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal prep time.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for family meals or entertaining guests.
Ingredient Notes
For the Sandwich:
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base of the dish.
- 2 cups spaghetti sauce: Adds rich tomato flavor.
- 1 Tbsp granulated garlic: Enhances the savory profile.
- 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning: Infuses classic Italian herb flavors.
- 1 package hot dog buns or sandwich rolls: Acts as the perfect vehicle for the fillings.
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess to the dish.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded: Offers a nutty, salty touch.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melts into gooey deliciousness.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Provides a sharp, tangy contrast.
How to Make Sloppy Italians
Step 1: Preheat and Cook the Meat
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat and drain any excess fat.
- Add the spaghetti sauce, granulated garlic, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup cheddar, and 1/4 cup mozzarella until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Sloppy Italians
- Spoon the meat mixture into the hot dog buns or sandwich rolls and place them on a baking sheet or dish.
- Spread a generous layer of the cheese mixture over the meat.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, golden brown, and bubbling.
Storage Options
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the assembled sandwiches before baking. Wrap tightly in foil and store for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Variations and Substitutions
- Lighter Option: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Add Veggies: Include diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Alternatives: Swap in provolone or gouda for a different cheesy twist.
- Healthier Buns: Use whole wheat buns or low-carb rolls for a nutritious upgrade.
What to Serve With Sloppy Italians
- Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: A simple and flavorful veggie side.
- Classic Caesar Salad: The crisp greens and creamy dressing complement the richness of the sandwiches.
- Roasted Potatoes: Herb-seasoned baby potatoes make a hearty accompaniment.
- Refreshing Lemonade: A cold glass of lemonade balances the savory flavors of the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the meat sauce and cheese mixture in advance, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.
Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Absolutely! Use your favorite jarred spaghetti sauce to save time.
Can I freeze Sloppy Italians?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled sandwiches before baking. Just wrap them tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat crumbles or cooked lentils for a vegetarian version.
When you bake these Sloppy Italians, you’ll get a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The rich marinara sauce pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese topping, creating a combination that will remind you of lasagna in sandwich form. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a gathering, these sandwiches are sure to be a hit!
Sloppy Italians
A twist on the classic Sloppy Joe sandwiches with an Italian charm. Rich marinara sauce paired with a creamy cheese layer, it's a lasagna in a bun. Perfect for a satisfying and hearty meal.
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Servings: 4 sandwiches
Calories: 551kcal
Equipment
- Skillet
- Baking sheet or dish
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups spaghetti sauce
- 1 Tbsp granulated garlic
- 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 package hot dog buns or other sandwich rolls
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. In a skillet, brown the ground beef and drain.
- Add the spaghetti sauce, granulated garlic, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until heated through.
- Meanwhile, combine the ricotta, Parmesan, 1/4 cup cheddar, and 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
- Spoon the meat sauce into the buns and place on a baking sheet or dish.
- Top with the cheese mixture.
- Sprinkle with the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and delicious.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Nutrition
Calories: 551kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 39g | Saturated Fat: 20g | Cholesterol: 124mg | Sodium: 884mg | Potassium: 726mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 330IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 468mg | Iron: 3mg
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