Cheesy Sloppy Joe Toast

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and sauté for 30 seconds more. Add ground beef and cook until browned, crumbling it as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the Sauce:
   Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes until thick and saucy. Remove from heat.
4. Assemble the Toasts:
   Lay the bread slices on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon a generous amount of the sloppy joe mixture on each slice.
5. Top with Cheese:
   Sprinkle each slice with shredded mozzarella or provolone.
6. Bake:
   Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra golden top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, keeping an eye on it.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations:

• Swap in spicy pepper jack or smoked gouda for a cheese upgrade.
• Add jalapeño slices, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted red peppers before baking for extra flavor.
• Use mini toast rounds or baguette slices for a bite-sized appetizer version.

Tips:

• For extra crunch and flavor, toast the bread slices lightly before adding the beef mixture.
• If you’re short on time, store-bought garlic bread makes a quick and flavorful substitute for plain toast.
• Leftover filling can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated for another round of toasts or stuffed into buns.