Garbage Bread
Garbage Bread is a delightful and hearty dish that combines savory ingredients in a warm, comforting package. Perfect for family dinners, game day snacks, or even potlucks, this recipe delivers on flavor while being budget-friendly. With its unique blend of ground beef, cheese, and condiments wrapped in delicious bread dough, Garbage Bread is sure to become a household favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this meal ready in no time.
- Versatile Filling Options: Customize the fillings based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of flavors makes it a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Any leftover Garbage Bread can be easily reheated for a quick snack or meal.
- Ideal for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time for busy weekdays or gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother. Here are some essential items you’ll need to create this fantastic Garbage Bread.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Large skillet
- Rolling pin
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking and provides ample space for your Garbage Bread to rise.
- Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough uniformly so that you can fill it evenly.
- Large skillet: Ideal for browning the ground beef quickly without crowding.
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
For the Condiments
- 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 Finishing Touches
- 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.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Cook the ground beef and diced onion until browned.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. 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
Evenly spread:
– Ketchup
– Mustard
over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
Step 5: Layer the Fillings
Distribute:
– Cooked ground beef
– Crumbled bacon
– Chopped pickles
evenly over the condiments.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Place:
– American cheese slices
in a single layer over the fillings.
Step 7: Roll and Seal
Carefully roll up:
1. The dough from one of the long ends to the other.
2. Seal the edges tightly.
3. 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 on top.
Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool for at least five minutes before slicing. Serve with Thousand Island dressing for dipping. Enjoy your delicious Garbage Bread!
How to Serve Garbage Bread
Garbage Bread is a fun and hearty dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
With Dipping Sauces
- Thousand Island Dressing: This classic tangy dressing complements the flavors of the bread nicely.
- Ketchup: A simple and familiar option that pairs perfectly with the savory filling.
- Mustard: For those who enjoy a bit of zing, mustard adds an extra layer of flavor.
As a Main Dish
- Accompanied by Salad: A fresh green salad can balance the richness of the Garbage Bread.
- With Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed veggies provide a healthy side that enhances your meal.
- Served Alongside Fries: Crispy fries are always a crowd-pleaser and add to the comfort food vibe.
At Parties or Gatherings
- Mini Slices for Sharing: Cut the Garbage Bread into small slices to make it easy for guests to grab and enjoy.
- Pair with Finger Foods: Offering other finger foods like wings or sliders creates a fun buffet-style meal.
How to Perfect Garbage Bread
Perfecting your Garbage Bread can take it from great to sensational. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out just right.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ground beef and produce will enhance flavors significantly.
- Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to pile on the fillings, overfilling can make rolling difficult. Stick to moderate amounts.
- Seal Edges Well: Ensure you seal the edges of the dough tightly so that no filling leaks out during baking.
- Experiment with Fillings: Try different ingredients like peppers, onions, or even cheese varieties for unique flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Garbage Bread
When serving Garbage Bread, pairing it with complementary sides will create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.
- Caesar Salad: A classic salad with romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
- Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm bread.
- Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges offer crispy goodness that pairs well with the bread’s softness.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Extra bread always works! Garlic breadsticks are a delicious addition.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a touch of elegance and healthy greens to your plate.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac ‘n’ cheese is indulgent and complements the savory flavors of Garbage Bread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Garbage Bread, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Not seasoning the meat can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt and pepper while cooking the ground beef.
- Overfilling the Dough: Adding too much filling can cause the bread to burst during baking. Stick to the recommended amounts for a perfect roll.
- Not Sealing Properly: Failing to seal the edges tightly may result in leaks while baking. Ensure you roll and pinch the dough securely.
- Ignoring Cooking Time: Baking for too long or too short can affect texture. Keep an eye on it and remove it when golden brown.
- Forgetting the Egg Wash: Skipping the egg wash may lead to dull-looking bread. Brush it on before baking for a beautiful golden finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Garbage Bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Make sure it cools completely before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezing Garbage Bread
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
Reheating Garbage Bread
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warm.
- Stovetop: Reheat slices in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally, until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Garbage Bread?
Garbage Bread is a savory baked dish made with ground beef, cheese, and various fillings wrapped in bread dough. It’s hearty and perfect for any meal.
Can I customize my Garbage Bread?
Absolutely! You can add or substitute fillings like vegetables, different cheeses, or sauces according to your taste preferences.
How do I know when Garbage Bread is done?
Look for a golden-brown color on top of the bread. It should be firm when tapped lightly; this indicates it’s fully baked.
What are some good dips for Garbage Bread?
Thousand Island dressing pairs well with Garbage Bread, but you can also try ranch dressing or marinara sauce for dipping.
Can I use other types of dough besides French bread?
Yes! You can experiment with pizza dough or crescent roll dough if you want different flavors or textures.
Final Thoughts
Garbage Bread is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it a perfect choice for family meals or parties. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its heartwarming flavors!
Garbage Bread
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Garbage Bread is the ultimate comfort dish that combines savory ground beef, melty cheese, and a variety of delicious fillings all wrapped in warm, flaky bread dough. This budget-friendly recipe is perfect for family dinners, game day snacks, or potlucks and is sure to become a beloved favorite in your household. With its easy preparation and endless customization options, you can make it your own by adding different ingredients based on what you have on hand. Serve it with tasty dipping sauces or alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal. Get ready to indulge in this hearty and satisfying dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup diced onion
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 11-ounce tube refrigerated French bread dough
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons mustard
- 6 slices cooked bacon
- 2 dill pickle spears (chopped)
- 8 slices American cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until browned; season with salt and pepper.
- Roll out the refrigerated dough into a rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread ketchup and mustard over the dough, leaving a border.
- Layer cooked beef, crumbled bacon, pickles, and cheese on top.
- Roll the dough tightly from one end to another and seal the edges.
- Place seam side down on the baking sheet, brush with beaten egg, and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Cool slightly before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
