Garbage Bread

Garbage Bread is a delightful dish that brings together a medley of flavors in a warm, comforting loaf. This versatile recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, or even as a fun snack. With its unique combination of ground beef, bacon, and cheese wrapped in fluffy bread dough, Garbage Bread satisfies cravings while being budget-friendly and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for those busy evenings.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of beef, bacon, and cheese creates a filling meal packed with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Customize your Garbage Bread by adding your favorite ingredients or leftovers.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness, making it a hit at family dinners.
• Perfect for Sharing: Serve it at parties or gatherings to impress your guests with minimal effort.

Tools and Preparation

To make Garbage Bread, you need some essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking the Garbage Bread evenly.
• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the ground beef thoroughly while allowing room to stir.

Ingredients

Garbage Bread is made using simple ingredients that create an amazing flavor profile.

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

For the Sauce

• ⅓ cup ketchup
• 3 tablespoons mustard

For the Toppings

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

For Baking

• 1 large egg (beaten)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

For Serving

• 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 to prevent sticking.

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.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Drain any excess grease after cooking.

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

Spread ketchup and mustard evenly over the dough:
– Leave about a ½-inch border around all edges for sealing.

Step 5: Layer the Fillings

Evenly distribute:
– The cooked ground beef mixture over the condiments.
– Sprinkle crumbled bacon and chopped pickles on top.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Place American cheese slices:
– Arrange them in a single layer over all fillings.

Step 7: Roll and Seal

Carefully roll up:
– Start from one long end to another while sealing edges tightly.
– Place seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 8: Brush and Bake

Brush:
– The top of the dough with beaten egg.
Sprinkle sesame seeds:
– Generously over the top.
Bake:
– In preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow Garbage Bread to cool for at least five minutes before slicing. Serve warm with Thousand Island dressing for dipping! Enjoy this tasty dish that’s sure to please everyone at your table.

How to Serve Garbage Bread

Garbage Bread is a fun and hearty dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or a game day snack, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Thousand Island Dressing: This tangy sauce complements the flavors of the bread perfectly.
• Ranch Dressing: A classic choice that adds a creamy texture and cool flavor.
• BBQ Sauce: For a smoky kick, BBQ sauce pairs wonderfully with the savory ingredients.

Serve with Fresh Salads

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad balances the richness of Garbage Bread.
• Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds freshness and is easy to prepare ahead of time.
• Greek Salad: With cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta, this salad brings a Mediterranean flair.

Add Some Crunch

• Potato Chips: The salty crunch of potato chips makes for an excellent contrast to the soft bread.
• Pickles: Serve dill pickles on the side for added tang and crunch.

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How to Perfect Garbage Bread

Perfecting Garbage Bread involves a few simple tips to ensure it turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ground beef and quality cheese make all the difference in flavor.
• Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overstuff your Garbage Bread; it helps prevent spills during baking.
• Seal Edges Well: Make sure to seal the edges tightly when rolling. This keeps all the tasty fillings inside.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients, such as peppers or different cheeses, for unique variations.

Best Side Dishes for Garbage Bread

Serving Garbage Bread is even better when you have some delightful side dishes. Here are some great options that pair well with this delicious meal.

1. French Fries: Crispy fries are always a hit; consider garlic or sweet potato fries for variety.
2. Onion Rings: The crunchy texture of onion rings complements the softness of Garbage Bread nicely.
3. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly seasoned steamed veggies provide a healthy option alongside your rich bread.
4. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad offers comfort and pairs well with any sandwich-style meal.
5. Chips and Salsa: A fresh salsa brings acidity and brightness that balances the richness of the bread.
6. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans add depth and texture that’s perfect for hearty meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures even cooking and the perfect texture.
• Ignoring the Dough Thickness: Rolling the dough too thin can lead to tearing. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch for best results.
• Overstuffing the Filling: While it’s tempting to add more ingredients, overstuffing can make rolling difficult. Stick to the recommended amounts for easy handling.
• Skipping the Egg Wash: Brushing with an egg wash gives your Garbage Bread a beautiful golden color. Don’t skip this step!
• Cutting Too Soon: Allowing the bread to cool slightly before slicing helps maintain its shape. Patience pays off!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Garbage Bread

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Keep frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Garbage Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, but this may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: Use a pan over medium heat, covering it lightly, for about 5-7 minutes until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Garbage Bread?

Garbage Bread is a hearty dish made by rolling up bread dough filled with ground beef, cheese, and various toppings. It’s a satisfying meal that can be customized easily.

Can I customize my Garbage Bread fillings?

Absolutely! You can add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, or switch up cheeses based on your preference.

How do I make my Garbage Bread spicy?

To give your Garbage Bread a kick, consider adding jalapeños or hot sauce into the filling mix.

Can I use store-bought dough instead of refrigerated French bread dough?

Yes, you can use any type of bread dough like pizza or homemade dough as long as it rolls well.

What should I serve with Garbage Bread?

Garbage Bread pairs well with salads, fries, or dips like Thousand Island dressing for an extra layer of flavor.

Final Thoughts

Garbage Bread is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal tastes. Don’t hesitate to try this budget-friendly recipe; it’s sure to satisfy cravings and become a family favorite!