Garbage Bread
Garbage Bread is an exciting dish that combines the best of flavors and textures in a single, satisfying meal. This budget-friendly recipe is perfect for family dinners, game nights, or any occasion when you want to serve something hearty and delicious. With its unique blend of ingredients wrapped in warm bread, Garbage Bread stands out as a versatile comfort food that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this dish comes together quickly.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings, parties, or just a cozy family meal, everyone will enjoy this tasty treat.
- Budget-Friendly: Made mostly from affordable ingredients, it’s easy on your wallet.
- Deliciously Filling: The combination of beef, cheese, and bacon creates a hearty meal that satisfies hunger.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making Garbage Bread, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having the right equipment makes preparation 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 base for baking the bread evenly.
- Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup quick and easy.
- Large Skillet: Ideal for browning the meat without overcrowding.
- Rolling Pin: Helps roll out the dough to the perfect thickness.
Ingredients
Garbage Bread is a delicious, budget-friendly dish that’s as versatile as it is satisfying.
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup diced onion
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Dough and Toppings
- 11-ounce tube refrigerated French bread dough
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons mustard
- 6 slices cooked and crumbled bacon (or store-bought bacon pieces)
Cheese and Garnish
- 2 dill pickle spears (chopped)
- 8 slices American cheese
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Dipping Sauce
- Thousand Island dressing for dipping
How to Make Garbage Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly spraying it with non-stick cooking spray.
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 while leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
Step 5: Layer the Fillings
Distribute the cooked ground beef over the condiments. Then sprinkle crumbled bacon and chopped pickles on top.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Place American cheese slices in a single layer over all fillings for that gooey goodness.
Step 7: Roll and Seal
Carefully roll up the dough from one long end to another:
1. Seal the edges tightly to avoid leaks during baking.
2. Place the rolled dough seam side down on your prepared baking sheet.
Step 8: Brush and Bake
Brush the top of the dough with beaten egg:
1. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for extra flavor.
2. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Let your Garbage Bread cool for at least five minutes before slicing it into pieces. Serve it warm with Thousand Island dressing for dipping—enjoy!
How to Serve Garbage Bread
Garbage Bread is not just a delicious meal; it’s also a fun dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
With Dipping Sauces
- Thousand Island Dressing: This creamy dressing adds a tangy flavor that complements the richness of the bread.
- BBQ Sauce: A smoky BBQ sauce pairs well with the savory fillings for an extra kick.
- Ranch Dressing: For those who love creamy dips, ranch dressing is a classic choice that works wonders.
As Part of a Platter
- Cheese and Crackers: Serve slices of Garbage Bread alongside an assortment of cheese and crackers for a delightful appetizer spread.
- Veggie Sticks: Fresh veggie sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers add crunch and freshness to balance the richness of the bread.
With Salads
- Caesar Salad: A Caesar salad brings crisp romaine and creamy dressing that contrasts nicely with the hearty Garbage Bread.
- Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw adds texture and complements the flavors in the bread.
How to Perfect Garbage Bread
Creating perfect Garbage Bread is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips for an even better result.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh ground beef and produce. This enhances both flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to load up on fillings, overstuffing can make rolling difficult and may cause leaks during baking.
- Seal Tightly: Make sure to seal the edges tightly when rolling. This prevents the filling from spilling out while baking.
- Egg Wash for Shine: Brushing the top with beaten egg gives your Garbage Bread a beautiful golden color and helps it crisp up nicely.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative! Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
Best Side Dishes for Garbage Bread
Pairing side dishes with your Garbage Bread enhances your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness of Garbage Bread.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to the savory bread.
- Garlic Breadsticks: For those who can’t get enough bread, garlic breadsticks are always a hit!
- Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide satisfying crunch and heartiness alongside your main dish.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms add an elegant touch to your meal.
- Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad is a classic side that pairs well with any meaty dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people encounter challenges when making Garbage Bread. Here are some common mistakes and tips to ensure success.
- Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating the oven can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat your oven to 350°F before baking.
- Overstuffing the Dough: Adding too many fillings can cause the bread to burst. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
- Not Sealing Properly: Failing to seal the edges tightly may result in filling leaking out during baking. Make sure to pinch the dough edges securely.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold dough or cheese can affect texture. Let your refrigerated ingredients sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using.
- Ignoring Cooling Time: Cutting into the bread immediately after baking can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to cool for at least five minutes before slicing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Garbage Bread in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Garbage Bread
- Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Garbage Bread
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 30 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and cook slices for about 3-4 minutes on each side until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Garbage Bread?
Garbage Bread is a savory dish made by stuffing bread dough with various fillings like ground beef, cheese, and condiments.
Can I customize my Garbage Bread?
Absolutely! You can add different meats, cheeses, or vegetables according to your preferences.
How do I make Garbage Bread ahead of time?
You can prepare the fillings and assemble the bread, then refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What should I serve with Garbage Bread?
Garbage Bread pairs wonderfully with dips like Thousand Island dressing or ranch dressing. You could also serve it alongside a fresh salad.
Is Garbage Bread suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It makes an excellent meal prep option as you can store portions easily and reheat them throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Garbage Bread is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. This recipe allows you to experiment with different ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at dinner or as a snack, don’t hesitate to try customizing it with your favorite flavors!
Garbage Bread
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Garbage Bread is a delightful and hearty dish that brings together a medley of flavors wrapped in warm, comforting bread. This budget-friendly recipe is perfect for family dinners, game nights, or any occasion where you crave a satisfying meal. With its combination of ground beef, cheese, and crispy bacon, Garbage Bread is sure to please everyone at your table. Plus, its versatility allows you to customize the ingredients according to your taste or what you have on hand. Serve it with your favorite dipping sauces for an unforgettable experience that’s both delicious and easy to make.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 11-ounce tube refrigerated French bread dough
- 8 slices American cheese
- 6 slices cooked and crumbled bacon
- Ketchup and mustard for spreading
- ½ cup diced onion
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons mustard
- 2 dill pickle spears (chopped)
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Thousand Island dressing for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion until browned; drain excess grease.
- Roll out the French bread dough into a rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread ketchup and mustard over the dough, leaving edges clear.
- Layer with cooked beef, crumbled bacon, pickles, and cheese.
- Roll tightly from one long end to the other; seal edges well and place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
- Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
- 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 (150g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 790mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
