Sloppy Joe Meatloaf

Recipe Ingredients

These simple ingredients work together to deliver bold flavor, satisfying texture, and that unmistakable sloppy joe vibe.

Pillsbury™ Original French Bread: This acts as a crust, holds the filling in place, and gives the dish a sliceable structure.

Ground Beef: This forms the hearty base of the meatloaf; we use meat that’s 90% lean to keep it less greasy, which makes it easier to slice. If you’d prefer, you can substitute ground turkey.

Tomato Sauce: Creates the saucy, sloppy joe-inspired foundation that keeps the filling moist.

Other Ingredients You’ll Need: Flour helps thicken the sauce so the filling holds together, and melty mozzarella cheese adds delicious, gooey richness. Dried basil and oregano—simple pantry spices—bring subtle Italian-style flavor. Onion and fennel seed add depth and mild sweetness to the filling. If you’re not a fan of fennel, skip it! Your meatloaf will still turn out delicious.

How to Make Sloppy Joe Meatloaf

Here’s a big-picture look at how this savory baked meatloaf comes together. Read on for the full recipe details!

1. Make the Filling

Brown the ground beef and onion until fully cooked, then drain. Stir in tomato sauce, flour, and seasonings, letting the mixture simmer briefly so it thickens and the flavors meld.

2. Prep the Dough

Cut the Pillsbury™ French Loaf Dough in half lengthwise and roll each half to form a long rectangle—this is what you’ll use to create the base and top layers.

3. Assemble the Meatloaf

Mix 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella into the beef mixture, spread the filling evenly over one dough rectangle, sprinkle with another 1/2 cup of cheese, then top with the second dough layer.

4. Bake Until Golden

Bake until the bread is deeply golden and the filling is hot and melty throughout. Let cool slightly, then use a serrated knife to gently cut into slices for easy serving.

How to Store (and Reheat) Sloppy Joe Meatloaf

Leftovers store well and reheat easily, making this meatloaf just as satisfying the next day as it is fresh from the oven.

Refrigerator Storage

You can store leftover meatloaf in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to store leftovers within 2 hours of finishing preparation.

Freezer Storage

We don’t recommend storing Sloppy Joe Meatloaf in the freezer, as the French bread may get dense and soggy when thawed.

Reheating

Reheat in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for 10 to 15 minutes—or microwave individual slices for about 1 minute—until the meatloaf is hot and the center is 165°F when measured with a food thermometer.