Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 oz jar marinara sauce
- 6 slices provolone cheese
- 6 ciabatta rolls or sliced focaccia rolls
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil followed by the diced red bell pepper and onion. Sauté until the veggies begin to soften, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Cook the Sausage: Push the veggies to the outside of the skillet. Add the sausage to the center of the skillet. Crumble and brown the sausage while mixing with the veggies. Cook for 5 to 8 minutes until most of the pink is gone.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Incorporate Marinara Sauce: Pour in the marinara sauce and mix well. Let it cook for 5 to 8 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce and thicken the filling slightly.
- Warm the Bread (Optional): While the filling thickens, preheat the oven to 350º F. Place the ciabatta or focaccia rolls in the oven and warm for 4 to 6 minutes. Use caution when slicing warm bread.
- Assemble the Sloppy Joes: Spoon the thickened filling into the warmed rolls, top each with a slice of provolone cheese, and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a spicier version, use a spicy Italian sausage or add chili flakes to the filling.
- You can substitute provolone with mozzarella or fontina cheese if preferred.
- Serve with a side of salad or crispy potato fries for a complete meal.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free rolls instead of ciabatta or focaccia.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
