Texas Toast Sloppy Joes

### Instructions

#### 1. **Prepare the Texas Toast**:
– Preheat your oven to **400°F (200°C)**. Place the Texas toast slices on a baking sheet, making sure they are evenly spaced.
– Brush each slice with **melted butter** and sprinkle with **garlic powder** (if using). This will give the toast a crispy, flavorful edge as it bakes.
– Bake the toast for **5-6 minutes** or until golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove from the oven and set aside.

#### 2. **Cook the Sloppy Joe Filling**:
– While the Texas toast is baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the **ground beef** and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat.
– Add the chopped **onion**, **green bell pepper**, and **garlic** to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
– Stir in the **ketchup**, **tomato paste**, **Worcestershire sauce**, **brown sugar**, **apple cider vinegar**, **mustard**, **smoked paprika**, and **red pepper flakes** (if using). Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.
– Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for about **10-15 minutes**, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and become rich and flavorful. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

#### 3. **Assemble the Texas Toast Sloppy Joes**:
– Once the sloppy joe mixture is thick and flavorful, it’s time to assemble your sandwiches.
– Place a slice of **garlic-buttered Texas toast** on each plate. Spoon a generous amount of the sloppy joe filling onto the toast, making sure to cover it evenly with the meaty mixture.
– Serve immediately while the Texas toast is still warm and crispy.

#### 4. **Serve and Enjoy**:
– For extra indulgence, serve your Texas Toast Sloppy Joes with a side of crispy fries, a fresh salad, or crunchy pickles.
– Enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish with family and friends for a meal that will surely become a new favorite!

### Tips for Perfect Texas Toast Sloppy Joes

– **Add More Veggies**: If you want to sneak in more vegetables, feel free to add finely chopped carrots, celery, or even mushrooms to the sloppy joe filling. They’ll blend in nicely and add extra flavor and nutrients.
– **Make it Spicy**: If you love a bit of heat, add a sliced jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick.
– **Substitute the Meat**: For a healthier or vegetarian option, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based ground meat alternative like lentils or crumbled tempeh.
– **Make it Your Own**: Don’t be afraid to experiment with the sauce! Try adding a splash of soy sauce for umami, or substitute the brown sugar with honey for a different sweetness.

### Why Texas Toast Sloppy Joes Are a Perfect Dinner Choice

Texas Toast Sloppy Joes are the ultimate comfort food. They’re hearty, flavorful, and fun to eat, making them perfect for casual dinners, family gatherings, or even a game day feast. The thick, buttery Texas toast adds a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the rich, savory sloppy joe filling, while the tangy and sweet sauce brings everything together.

Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the spice level, swap in different proteins, or add extra veggies to suit your tastes. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to take the traditional sloppy joe to the next level with just a few simple tweaks.

### Conclusion

If you’re looking for a fun, delicious, and filling meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings, **Texas Toast Sloppy Joes** are a must-try. With their rich, tangy filling piled high on crispy, buttery Texas toast, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more.

Whether you’re serving them for dinner tonight or making them for a weekend gathering, Texas Toast Sloppy Joes are guaranteed to be a hit. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the perfect combination of flavors in every bite!