Garbage Bread
Garbage Bread is an irresistible dish that combines convenience with comfort. This budget-friendly meal features a delicious filling wrapped in warm, soft bread, making it perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner or a game day snack. The flexibility of Garbage Bread allows you to customize the fillings to your taste, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
- Versatile Fillings: Personalize your Garbage Bread with different meats, veggies, or cheeses based on what you have on hand.
- Fun for Gatherings: Serve it at parties or family get-togethers; it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
- Budget-Friendly: Using affordable ingredients makes this dish great for those watching their wallets without sacrificing taste.
- Deliciously Satisfying: The blend of flavors and textures ensures that each bite is both hearty and delectable.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make all the difference in your cooking experience. For this Garbage Bread recipe, you’ll need some basic kitchen equipment to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (or non-stick cooking spray)
- Rolling pin
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Essential for browning the ground beef evenly and allowing for easy mixing with the onions.
- Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for baking the Garbage Bread while ensuring even heat distribution.
- Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough to the perfect thickness for wrapping around your delicious fillings.
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
- 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
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 fully 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:
1. Ketchup and mustard over the dough.
2. Leave a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
Step 5: Layer the Fillings
Distribute:
1. The cooked ground beef over the condiments.
2. Sprinkle 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:
1. Roll up the dough from one long end to another, sealing edges tightly.
2. 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 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Allow:
1. The bread to cool for at least five minutes before slicing.
Serve with Thousand Island dressing for dipping.
How to Serve Garbage Bread
Garbage Bread is not only a satisfying meal on its own but also pairs wonderfully with various sides and dips. Here are some delicious ways to serve it!
With Dipping Sauces
- Thousand Island Dressing: This classic pairing adds a tangy flavor that complements the richness of the bread.
- Ranch Dressing: For those who love creamy textures, ranch dressing adds a cool contrast to the warm bread.
- BBQ Sauce: A smoky blend can enhance the savory flavors in Garbage Bread.
Accompanied by Fresh Salads
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan and croutons provides a refreshing crunch.
- Coleslaw: The sweet and tangy flavors of coleslaw offer a nice balance to the hearty bread.
- Greek Salad: Tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives create a vibrant side that brightens up your meal.
With Hearty Soups
- Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup makes for a comforting pair with Garbage Bread.
- Chili: The spiciness of chili complements the bread’s savory fillings perfectly.
How to Perfect Garbage Bread
To make your Garbage Bread even more delicious, consider these tips. They will elevate your dish and impress your family or guests.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Quality ingredients enhance flavor. Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality meat for better taste.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add different proteins or veggies like sausage, bell peppers, or mushrooms for variety.
- Adjust Seasonings: Customize the spices according to your preference. Adding garlic powder or paprika can provide an extra kick.
- Make it Cheesy: Don’t hesitate to layer in more cheese or try different varieties like cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor.
- Serve Warm: Fresh out of the oven is best. Let it cool slightly before serving to keep it warm and gooey.
- Try Different Sauces: Besides ketchup and mustard, experiment with other sauces like sriracha or aioli for unique flavor profiles.
Best Side Dishes for Garbage Bread
Pairing side dishes with your Garbage Bread can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- French Fries: Crispy fries are always a hit. Try seasoning them with garlic powder for an extra touch.
- Potato Wedges: Baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a filling side that complements the bread well.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add nutrition and color to your plate.
- Macaroni and Cheese: This creamy delight pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of Garbage Bread.
- Onion Rings: Crunchy onion rings provide a satisfying texture contrast to the soft bread.
- Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans add a delightful contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brings sweetness and freshness, rounding out your meal nicely.
- Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad adds crispness and balances out the rich flavors of your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Garbage Bread, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the Preheating: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven baking and a doughy center. Always preheat to 350°F before starting.
- Overfilling the Dough: Adding too many fillings can cause the bread to burst while baking. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
- Not Sealing the Edges: Failing to seal the edges tightly can lead to fillings leaking out during baking. Ensure you press down well on the seams after rolling.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold dough or cheese can affect how well they meld together. Allow ingredients to come to room temperature for better blending.
- Ignoring Cooling Time: Cutting into your Garbage Bread immediately after baking may result in a messy slice. Let it cool for at least five minutes for easier serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Garbage Bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Wrap slices in plastic wrap or foil for added freshness.
Freezing Garbage Bread
- Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag.
- It will last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Garbage Bread
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30 seconds or until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, covering it with a lid until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Garbage Bread that may help clarify any uncertainties you have.
What is Garbage Bread?
Garbage Bread is a savory dish made using ground beef, cheese, and various condiments wrapped in French bread dough. It’s easy and customizable!
Can I use different meats in Garbage Bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage based on your preference.
How can I customize my Garbage Bread?
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, switch out cheeses, or use different sauces based on your taste preferences.
How do I know when my Garbage Bread is done?
Look for a golden brown crust when baking; this usually takes about 20-25 minutes in a preheated oven at 350°F.
Can I make Garbage Bread ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge before baking or freeze it unbaked for later use.
Final Thoughts
Garbage Bread is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. This recipe allows room for creativity with fillings and sauces, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this dish promises satisfaction. Give it a try and customize it to match your cravings!
Garbage Bread
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Garbage Bread is the ultimate comfort food that brings together savory ground beef, melted cheese, and your favorite condiments, all wrapped in soft, warm bread. This budget-friendly dish is perfect for any occasion—family dinners or game day gatherings—offering a customizable experience that ensures every bite is bursting with flavor. With a straightforward recipe that’s easy to follow, even novice cooks can impress guests with this hearty meal. Serve it with dipping sauces or alongside fresh salads for a complete dining experience that will leave everyone satisfied.
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)
- Sesame seeds for topping
Instructions
- Preheat 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; drain excess grease.
- Roll out the French bread dough on a floured surface into a rectangle.
- Spread ketchup and mustard over dough, leaving a border.
- Top with cooked beef, crumbled bacon, and cheese slices.
- Roll tightly and seal edges; 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 (100g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
