Description

Italian Sloppy Joes, also known as Messy Giuseppe Sandwiches, are a delicious twist on the classic sloppy joe, featuring flavorful ground Italian sausage cooked with peppers, onions, garlic, and marinara sauce, served on warm ciabatta or focaccia rolls topped with melted provolone cheese. This easy and quick skillet recipe makes a comforting and hearty meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced

Meats

1 pound ground Italian sausage

Pantry

2 teaspoons olive oil
24 oz jar marinara sauce

Other

6 slices provolone cheese
6 ciabatta rolls or sliced focaccia rolls

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Instructions

Prepare the vegetables: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil followed by the diced red bell pepper and yellow onion. Sauté the vegetables until they begin to soften, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Cook the sausage: Push the sautéed vegetables to the outside of the skillet. Add the ground Italian sausage to the center. Crumble and brown the sausage, mixing it with the vegetables. Cook for 5 to 8 minutes until the sausage is mostly cooked through and no longer pink.
Add the garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Combine with marinara: Pour in the jar of marinara sauce and mix everything together. Let it cook for 5 to 8 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce and thicken slightly.
Warm the bread (optional): While the filling thickens, preheat the oven to 350ºF. Place the ciabatta or focaccia rolls in the oven for 4 to 6 minutes to warm. Be careful when slicing warm bread.
Assemble and serve: Spoon the thickened sausage mixture onto the warmed rolls. Top each sandwich with a slice of provolone cheese. Serve immediately for a hearty, satisfying meal.

Notes

Use ciabatta or focaccia rolls for the best texture and flavor that complement the saucy filling.
The bread warming step is optional but enhances the overall sandwich experience.
To make it spicier, consider adding red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables.
Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving.