Garbage Bread

Garbage Bread is a delightful dish that combines savory ground beef, crispy bacon, and melty cheese wrapped in warm French bread dough. This mouthwatering recipe is perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or a cozy night in. Its versatility allows you to customize the fillings to your liking, making it a unique comfort food that everyone will love.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Filling
• For the Dough
• Condiments and Toppings
• For Dipping
• How to Make Garbage Bread
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
• Step 3: Prepare the Dough
• Step 4: Add Condiments
• Step 5: Layer the Fillings
• Step 6: Add Cheese
• Step 7: Roll and Seal
• Step 8: Brush and Bake
• Step 9: Cool and Serve
• How to Serve Garbage Bread
• With Dipping Sauces
• As a Main Dish
• For Meal Prep
• How to Perfect Garbage Bread
• Best Side Dishes for Garbage Bread
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Garbage Bread
• Reheating Garbage Bread
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Garbage Bread?
• Can I customize my Garbage Bread?
• How do I prevent soggy dough?
• What should I serve with garbage bread?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, Garbage Bread comes together quickly, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of beef, bacon, and cheese creates a burst of flavors that will satisfy any appetite.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or substitute different meats to make this dish uniquely yours.
• Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a party or a family meal, Garbage Bread is easy to slice and serve, making it ideal for sharing.
• Budget-Friendly: Using affordable ingredients means you can enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this tasty recipe, gather the necessary tools that will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large skillet
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for evenly baking your Garbage Bread without sticking.
• Large skillet: Perfect for cooking the ground beef and onions evenly while allowing room for stirring.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough into the perfect size for wrapping all your delicious fillings.

Ingredients

Garbage Bread is a delicious, budget-friendly dish that’s as versatile as it is satisfying.

For the Filling

• 1 pound ground beef
• ½ cup diced onion
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

For the Dough

• 11-ounce tube refrigerated French bread dough

Condiments and Toppings

• ⅓ cup ketchup
• 3 tablespoons mustard
• 6 slices cooked and crumbled bacon (or store-bought bacon pieces)
• 2 dill pickle spears (chopped)
• 8 slices American cheese
• 1 large egg (beaten)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

For Dipping

• Thousand Island dressing

How to Make Garbage Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Cook the ground beef along with the diced onion until fully browned.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Drain any excess grease once cooked.

Step 3: Prepare the Dough

On a lightly floured surface:
1. Roll out the refrigerated French bread dough into a large rectangle (approximately 12×18 inches).

Step 4: Add Condiments

Evenly spread:
1. Ketchup and mustard over the rolled-out dough.
2. Leave a 1/2-inch border around the edges.

Step 5: Layer the Fillings

Distribute:
1. The cooked ground beef mixture over the condiments.
2. Sprinkle crumbled bacon and chopped pickles on top.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Place:
1. American cheese slices in a single layer over all fillings.

Step 7: Roll and Seal

Carefully:
1. Roll up the dough from one long end to another.
2. Seal the edges tightly and place seam side down on your prepared baking sheet.

Step 8: Brush and Bake

Brush:
1. The top of your rolled dough with beaten egg.
2. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before baking.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow your Garbage Bread to cool for at least five minutes before slicing it into pieces. Serve with Thousand Island dressing for dipping!

How to Serve Garbage Bread

Garbage Bread is a fun and delicious dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a casual family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Dipping Sauces

• Thousand Island Dressing: A classic pairing that enhances the flavors of the bread.
• Barbecue Sauce: Adds a smoky sweetness that complements the savory fillings.
• Ranch Dressing: A creamy option for those who love rich flavors.

As a Main Dish

• With a Side Salad: A fresh green salad can balance the richness of the Garbage Bread.
• Accompanied by Fries: Crispy fries make for a hearty side that kids will love.
• Paired with Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw provides a nice texture contrast.

For Meal Prep

• Sliced for Lunchboxes: Cut into portions for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Frozen for Later: Wrap leftovers tightly and freeze for a quick meal on busy nights.

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How to Perfect Garbage Bread

Perfecting your Garbage Bread can take this dish from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure every bite is delicious.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ground beef and vegetables enhance the flavor significantly.
• Roll Evenly: Ensure the dough is rolled evenly to prevent uneven cooking.
• Experiment with Fillings: Try different meats or veggies based on your preference.
• Don’t Skimp on Cheese: Adding extra cheese creates a melty, gooey texture that everyone loves.
• Brush with Butter: For an extra golden crust, brush the top with melted butter before baking.

Best Side Dishes for Garbage Bread

Serving side dishes with your Garbage Bread can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine topped with Parmesan and croutons adds freshness.
2. Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet and savory, they provide a tasty alternative to regular fries.
3. Garlic Breadsticks: Enhance the bread experience with buttery garlic flavor.
4. Vegetable Platter: Fresh veggies with dip offer a crunchy contrast.
5. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad complements the flavors in Garbage Bread wonderfully.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, corn adds sweetness and color to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Garbage Bread is a fun and easy dish, but it’s crucial to avoid some common pitfalls for the best results.

• Skipping the Preheating: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures the dough bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden brown color.
• Overstuffing the Dough: While it’s tempting to add more fillings, overstuffing can lead to a messy roll. Stick to the recommended amounts for a neat and delicious Garbage Bread.
• Not Sealing Edges Properly: Failing to seal the dough well can result in fillings leaking out during baking. Make sure to pinch the seams tightly for a secure roll.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Allowing your Garbage Bread to cool before slicing helps maintain its structure. Cutting too soon may cause it to fall apart.
• Using Cold Ingredients: If your dough or cheese is cold, it can affect how well everything melts together. Let them come to room temperature for better results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Garbage Bread in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garbage Bread

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them inside a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garbage Bread

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the bread on a baking sheet and heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Garbage Bread that may help you make this dish even better.

What is Garbage Bread?

Garbage Bread is a delicious, stuffed bread filled with ground beef, cheese, and other delightful ingredients. It’s perfect as a main dish or snack.

Can I customize my Garbage Bread?

Absolutely! You can add different meats, vegetables, or cheeses based on your preferences. Feel free to experiment with flavors!

How do I prevent soggy dough?

To avoid sogginess, ensure you cook the ground beef thoroughly and drain excess grease before adding it to the dough.

What should I serve with garbage bread?

Garbage Bread pairs well with dipping sauces like Thousand Island dressing or even ranch dressing for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Garbage Bread is an incredibly versatile dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. With endless customization options, from filling choices to dipping sauces, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!