Garbage Bread
Garbage Bread is a mouthwatering dish that perfectly combines savory flavors and satisfying textures. This budget-friendly recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, making it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or game day snacks. With its rich filling of ground beef, cheese, and crispy bacon wrapped in golden bread, Garbage Bread stands out as a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
- Versatile Filling Options: Customize the filling with your favorite meats, cheeses, or even veggies to suit everyone’s taste.
- Great for Any Occasion: Perfect for casual weeknight dinners, parties, or as a fun appetizer.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients, Garbage Bread is friendly on the wallet while still being delicious.
- Kid-Approved: With its cheesy goodness and familiar flavors, it’s sure to be a hit with children and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect Garbage Bread, having the right tools makes the process smoother. Below are essential tools that will help you prepare this dish efficiently.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Large skillet
- Rolling pin
- Knife for slicing
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking and ensures even cooking.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup quick and easy.
- Large skillet: Ideal for browning meat evenly without overcrowding.
- Rolling pin: Helps in rolling out the dough to the perfect thickness for filling.
Ingredients
Garbage Bread is a delicious, budget-friendly dish that’s as versatile as it is satisfying.
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 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
– Thousand Island dressing for dipping
For the Beef 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 Extras:
- 6 slices cooked and crumbled bacon (or store-bought bacon pieces)
- 2 dill pickle spears (chopped)
- 8 slices American cheese
For Topping:
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Thousand Island dressing for dipping
How to Make Garbage Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat 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 fully browned.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. 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.
Step 4: Add Condiments
Evenly spread:
1. Ketchup and mustard over the dough.
2. Leave a 1/2-inch border around all edges.
Step 5: Layer the Fillings
Distribute:
1. The cooked ground beef mixture over the condiments.
2. 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 roll up the dough from one long end to another while sealing edges tightly. Place rolled dough seam side down on prepared baking sheet.
Step 8: Brush and Bake
Brush:
1. The top of the dough with beaten egg.
2. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
Bake in preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool for at least five minutes before slicing. Serve warm with Thousand Island dressing for dipping. Enjoy your delicious Garbage Bread!
How to Serve Garbage Bread
Garbage Bread is not only a hearty meal but also a fun dish to serve in various ways. You can customize how you present and enjoy this delicious bread, making it perfect for gatherings or casual family dinners.
With Dipping Sauces
- Thousand Island Dressing: The tangy flavor complements the savory fillings perfectly.
- Ranch Dressing: A creamy option that adds a cool contrast to the warm bread.
- BBQ Sauce: Smoky and sweet, this sauce enhances the meatiness of the Garbage Bread.
As a Meal with Sides
- Fresh Salad: A light, crunchy salad balances the richness of the bread.
- Vegetable Platter: Serve with a variety of fresh veggies for a refreshing touch.
- Chips and Salsa: Add some crunch with tortilla chips paired with zesty salsa.
For Game Day
- Finger Food Style: Slice into smaller pieces for easy snacking during sports events.
- Buffet Style: Place on a platter alongside various dips for guests to help themselves.
As Leftovers
- Reheated in the Oven: Crisp it up again by reheating in the oven for a few minutes.
- Cold Sandwiches: Enjoy cold slices as part of a sandwich or wrap for lunch.
How to Perfect Garbage Bread
To ensure your Garbage Bread turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips. Small adjustments can lead to big flavor improvements.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality meats to enhance flavor.
- Don’t Overfill: Avoid overstuffing your Garbage Bread; it makes rolling and sealing more difficult.
- Seal Properly: Make sure to seal the edges well to prevent any filling from leaking during baking.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to mix in other ingredients like peppers, mushrooms, or different cheeses based on your preferences.
- Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on the bread while it bakes; ovens can vary in temperature, so adjust baking time as needed.
Best Side Dishes for Garbage Bread
Serving side dishes with your Garbage Bread can elevate the meal experience. Here are some great options that pair well with this flavorful dish.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy and tangy side that adds freshness and complements the richness of the bread.
- French Fries: Crispy fries provide a classic pairing that’s always a hit, especially with dipping sauces.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans offer delightful contrast and heartiness alongside Garbage Bread.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brings sweetness and is easy to prepare as an outdoor summer side dish.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery sticks add another layer of flavor while keeping with the bread theme.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad provides comfort and pairs nicely, making it perfect for gatherings or picnics.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Garbage Bread, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can make a big difference in the final dish. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Forgetting to season the ground beef can lead to bland flavors. Always season your meat with salt and pepper for a tasty filling.
- Not rolling the dough properly: If the dough isn’t tightly rolled, your fillings may spill out during baking. Make sure to roll it up snugly from one end to the other.
- Using too much filling: Overfilling can cause the bread to burst while baking. Stick to recommended amounts for best results.
- Ignoring the baking time: Baking for too long or too short can affect texture. Keep an eye on the bread and look for a golden brown color.
- Cutting too soon: Slicing into the bread while it’s still hot can make it fall apart. Let it cool for at least five minutes before cutting.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Garbage Bread can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Garbage Bread
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Garbage Bread
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, wrap in foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 30 seconds, checking regularly.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes on each side until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Garbage Bread:
How do I customize my Garbage Bread?
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses as well!
Can I use other types of dough for Garbage Bread?
Absolutely! Pizza dough or homemade bread dough can work well if you’re looking for variety.
What should I serve with Garbage Bread?
Garbage Bread pairs wonderfully with salads or potato wedges. You could also offer dips like ranch or marinara for extra flavor.
Is Garbage Bread suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It makes a great meal prep option since it stores well and reheats easily, ensuring you have delicious meals ready throughout the week.
Can I make Garbage Bread vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or beans, and ensure you use vegetarian-friendly cheese options.
Final Thoughts
Garbage Bread is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, allowing you to create variations that suit your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the warm satisfaction of this delightful meal!
Garbage Bread
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
Description
Garbage Bread is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory ground beef, crispy bacon, and gooey melted cheese all wrapped in golden, baked French bread. This budget-friendly dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game day snacks. With its customizable filling options, you can easily adapt it to suit any palate. Whether served warm with dipping sauces or as a hearty meal paired with sides, Garbage Bread is sure to delight everyone from kids to adults. Dive into this easy and satisfying recipe today!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup diced onion
- 11-ounce tube refrigerated French bread dough
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons mustard
- 6 slices cooked bacon (crumbled)
- 8 slices American cheese
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until browned; season with salt and pepper.
- Roll out the French bread dough into a rectangle. Spread ketchup and mustard while leaving a border around the edges.
- Layer the beef mixture, crumbled bacon, and cheese on top of the condiments.
- Roll the dough tightly from one end to another and place seam side down on the baking sheet.
- Brush with beaten egg, sprinkle sesame seeds, and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool slightly before slicing and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
