Garbage Bread

Garbage Bread is a delightful and budget-friendly dish that is perfect for family dinners, game nights, or any casual gathering. This recipe combines flavors of seasoned beef, savory bacon, and gooey cheese, all wrapped up in warm French bread. It’s a versatile option that can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a snack, Garbage Bread stands out with its hearty filling and quick preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious dish ready in no time.
• Customizable Fillings: The beauty of Garbage Bread is its versatility; feel free to swap in your favorite meats and veggies.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love it! The combination of flavors makes it appealing to both children and adults.
• Budget-Friendly: Using simple ingredients, this recipe won’t break the bank while still delivering big on taste.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Got extra ingredients? This dish is an excellent way to use up leftovers!

Tools and Preparation

To make Garbage Bread efficiently, having the right tools on hand is crucial. These kitchen essentials will help you create this tasty dish effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or non-stick spray
• Rolling pin
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for cooking the ground beef evenly without overcrowding.
• Baking sheet: Ensures even baking and allows for easy cleanup when lined with parchment paper.
• Rolling pin: Helps to roll out the dough to the right thickness for filling.

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
• 6 slices cooked and crumbled bacon (or store-bought bacon pieces)
• 2 dill pickle spears (chopped)
• 8 slices American cheese

For the Dough and Topping

• 11-ounce tube refrigerated French bread dough
• ⅓ cup ketchup
• 3 tablespoons mustard
• 1 large egg (beaten)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Thousand Island dressing for dipping

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. This prepares your baking surface for the rolled dough.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Add the ground beef and diced onion.
2. Cook until the beef is fully browned, stirring occasionally.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Once cooked, drain any excess grease from the skillet.

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.
2. Ensure it’s evenly rolled to hold all fillings properly.

Step 4: Add Condiments

Spread ketchup and mustard evenly over the dough:
1. Leave about a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
2. This creates a flavorful base for your fillings.

Step 5: Layer the Fillings

Distribute cooked ground beef over the condiments:
1. Sprinkle crumbled bacon and chopped pickles on top of the beef.
2. Ensure an even layer for maximum flavor in every bite.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Place American cheese slices:
1. Lay them in a single layer over all fillings.
2. This adds creaminess that complements the savory flavors.

Step 7: Roll and Seal

Carefully roll up the dough:
1. Start from one of the long ends.
2. Seal edges tightly as you roll to prevent leaks during baking.
3. Place rolled dough seam side down on prepared baking sheet.

Step 8: Brush and Bake

Brush top of rolled dough:
1. Use beaten egg for a golden finish.
2. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before placing in oven.
3. Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow Garbage Bread to cool:
1. Let it sit for at least five minutes before slicing.
2. Serve warm with Thousand Island dressing for dipping—enjoy!

How to Serve Garbage Bread

Garbage Bread is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or a party, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Dipping Sauces

• Thousand Island Dressing: This creamy dressing pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of Garbage Bread.
• Ranch Dressing: For a cool and tangy twist, ranch dressing complements the richness of the bread.
• Barbecue Sauce: A smoky barbecue sauce adds an extra layer of flavor that can enhance the overall taste.

As a Sandwich

• Split and Fill: Cut the Garbage Bread in half and fill it with additional toppings such as lettuce, tomato, or pickles for a delicious sandwich.
• Serve Warm: Warmed slices offer a delightful texture that makes each bite satisfying.

Accompanied by Salads

• Coleslaw: The crunchy texture and tangy flavor of coleslaw make it a great side to balance the richness of Garbage Bread.
• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette can provide freshness alongside this hearty dish.

For Game Day Snacks

• Slice into Bites: Cut the Garbage Bread into small pieces for easy snacking during game day gatherings.
• Serve on Platters: Present them on platters with various dipping sauces for your guests to enjoy.

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Garbage Bread

To make sure your Garbage Bread turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ground beef and quality cheese will enhance the overall flavor.
• Don’t Overstuff: Avoid overfilling the dough; too many ingredients can make rolling difficult and lead to spills during baking.
• Seal Edges Well: Make sure to seal the edges tightly to prevent any filling from leaking out while baking.
• Preheat Oven Properly: Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking and golden-brown crusts.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to mix up fillings like sausage or different cheeses for unique variations of Garbage Bread.

Best Side Dishes for Garbage Bread

Pairing side dishes with Garbage Bread can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. French Fries: Crispy fries provide a classic comfort food pairing that everyone loves.
2. Sweet Potato Wedges: These provide natural sweetness and are an excellent alternative to regular fries.
3. Vegetable Medley: Lightly steamed vegetables add color and nutrition, balancing the hearty bread.
4. Chips and Salsa: A crunchy option that adds flavor contrast; perfect for dipping alongside your main dish.
5. Potato Salad: This creamy side is great for picnics and complements the flavors in Garbage Bread nicely.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweetness from grilled corn provides a deliciously fresh contrast.
7. Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and rich dressing pair well with the savory bread.
8. Garlic Breadsticks: For those who want even more bread, these are always a hit!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Garbage Bread can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat your oven can result in uneven baking. Always ensure your oven reaches the right temperature before placing the bread inside.
• Overfilling the Dough: Adding too many fillings may cause the dough to burst during baking. Stick to the recommended amounts for a perfectly sealed roll.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Cutting into your Garbage Bread too soon can lead to a messy serving. Give it at least five minutes to cool before slicing.
• Ignoring the Border: Not leaving a border when spreading condiments can lead to a soggy bottom. Make sure to leave at least a 1/2-inch edge around the dough.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold dough or cheese can affect how well everything melts and binds together. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before use.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Garbage Bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap before placing them in the container for better freshness.

Freezing Garbage Bread

• Freeze whole or sliced pieces of Garbage Bread in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Ensure you remove as much air as possible from the bag to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Garbage Bread

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Brown slices on a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, ensuring they become crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What is Garbage Bread?

Garbage Bread is a fun, versatile dish that combines ground beef, cheese, and various condiments wrapped in bread dough. It’s delicious and perfect for any meal!

Can I customize my Garbage Bread?

Absolutely! You can add different meats like sausage or chicken, or include veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms based on your preferences.

How do I know when my Garbage Bread is done baking?

Your Garbage Bread is ready when it’s golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F.

Is Garbage Bread suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well in both the refrigerator and freezer, making it perfect for meal prep. You can easily reheat it whenever you’re ready to enjoy it!

Final Thoughts

Garbage Bread is not only budget-friendly but also highly customizable, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. Whether you stick with traditional fillings or get creative with your ingredients, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table. Try it today and discover endless possibilities!