Garbage Bread is the ultimate comfort food that combines layers of flavor in a delightful bread roll. This dish is perfect for family dinners, game nights, or even as a tasty snack. With a mix of savory beef, crispy bacon, and melty cheese all wrapped in warm bread, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s easy to make and customizable with your favorite ingredients!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Budget-Friendly: Garbage Bread uses affordable ingredients without compromising on taste.
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking, you can have this delicious dish on your table in no time.
- Versatile Filling Options: You can easily swap out the fillings based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.
- Perfect for Sharing: This dish is great for gatherings and can be sliced into portions for everyone to enjoy.
- Kid-Friendly: The combination of flavors makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
To make Garbage Bread successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and help you achieve the best results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Pastry brush
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for cooking ground beef evenly, ensuring it’s perfectly browned.
- Rolling pin: Helps roll out dough easily into the desired shape for filling.
- Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for baking your Garbage Bread without mess.
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 Toppings
- 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
For Dipping Sauce
- 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. 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 a 1/2-inch border around all edges.
Step 5: Layer the Fillings
Distribute cooked ground beef over condiments:
– Sprinkle crumbled bacon and chopped pickles on top.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Place American cheese slices in a single layer over the fillings.
Step 7: Roll and Seal
Carefully roll up the dough:
1. Start 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 top of 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 bread to cool for at least five minutes before slicing:
– Serve with Thousand Island dressing for dipping.
With its comforting flavors and simple preparation, Garbage Bread is bound to become a family favorite! Enjoy every bite!
How to Serve Garbage Bread
Garbage Bread is a fun and hearty dish perfect for gatherings or a casual family dinner. You can serve it in various ways to enhance its flavors and make the meal more enjoyable.
With Dipping Sauces
- Thousand Island Dressing: This creamy dressing complements the flavors of the meat and cheese perfectly.
- BBQ Sauce: A tangy BBQ sauce adds a smoky sweetness that pairs well with the savory filling.
- Ranch Dressing: The coolness of ranch provides a nice contrast to the warm bread.
As a Main Dish
- With Fresh Salad: Pair Garbage Bread with a light mixed greens salad for a refreshing balance.
- Alongside Soup: Enjoy it with a bowl of tomato or minestrone soup for a comforting meal.
- Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables add a colorful and nutritious touch.
For Game Day
- Slice for Finger Food: Cut Garbage Bread into smaller pieces for easy snacking during game day.
- Serve on a Platter: Present it on a large platter with various dips, making it perfect for sharing.
As Leftovers
- Reheat in Oven: Warm leftover slices in the oven to maintain their crispy texture.
- Cold Sandwiches: Enjoy cold slices as part of a sandwich with your favorite toppings.
How to Perfect Garbage Bread
Making the perfect Garbage Bread takes practice, but these tips will help you create an even better version every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce and meats will enhance the overall flavor and texture of your bread.
- Don’t Overfill: Keep fillings moderate to prevent spilling out when rolling; this ensures an easier seal.
- Seal Edges Tightly: Make sure to press down on the seams when rolling to avoid leakage while baking.
- Brush Generously: Apply enough egg wash on top before baking for that golden, shiny finish.
- Cool Before Slicing: Allowing it to cool slightly helps set the fillings and makes slicing easier.
Best Side Dishes for Garbage Bread
Garbage Bread is delicious on its own, but pairing it with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Garden Salad: A simple garden salad provides freshness that balances the richness of the bread.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw offers crunch and tanginess, making it an excellent side choice.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs complement the flavors of Garbage Bread well.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful touch, especially during summer barbecues.
- Pickle Platter: A mix of dill pickles and olives can enhance the savory notes of the bread.
- Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad is filling and pairs nicely with this hearty dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Garbage Bread, it’s easy to overlook a few crucial details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Failing to season the ground beef properly can result in bland flavors. Always add salt and pepper during cooking for better taste.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in an unheated oven can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure your oven is preheated to 350°F before baking.
- Overfilling the Dough: Adding too many fillings can cause the bread to burst while baking. Stick to suggested amounts for a perfectly rolled Garbage Bread.
- Neglecting to Seal Edges: If the edges of your dough aren’t sealed well, fillings may leak out during baking. Make sure to pinch the seams tightly.
- Cutting Too Soon: Slicing into your Garbage Bread immediately after baking can result in messy servings. Let it cool for at least five minutes before cutting.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap for easy access.
Freezing Garbage Bread
- Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
- Label with the date for reference.
Reheating Garbage Bread
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Garbage Bread that might help you enjoy this delicious dish even more.
What is Garbage Bread?
Garbage Bread is a versatile stuffed bread filled with ground beef, cheese, and condiments, making it a satisfying meal option.
Can I customize my Garbage Bread?
Absolutely! You can add your favorite vegetables, different meats, or cheeses according to your preference.
How do I know when my Garbage Bread is done?
Look for a golden brown color on top. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
What should I serve with Garbage Bread?
Serve with Thousand Island dressing or your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor. A side salad also complements this dish well!
Can I make Garbage Bread ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble it in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake, making it perfect for meal prep.
Final Thoughts
Garbage Bread is not only budget-friendly but also adaptable to various tastes and preferences. Whether you stick with classic ingredients or try new combinations, this recipe promises satisfaction. Give it a try and enjoy customizing it with your favorite flavors!
Garbage Bread
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Garbage Bread is the ultimate comfort food that combines layers of savory flavors in a hearty roll. Stuffed with ground beef, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese, this dish is perfect for family dinners, game nights, or a satisfying snack. Its easy preparation and customizable nature make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. In just about 40 minutes, you can whip up this deliciously filling bread that promises to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup diced onion
- 1 tube (11 ounces) refrigerated French bread dough
- 6 slices cooked and crumbled bacon
- 8 slices American cheese
- Ketchup and mustard for spreading
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- Sesame seeds for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until browned. Drain excess grease and season with salt and pepper.
- Roll out the French bread dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle.
- Spread ketchup and mustard evenly over the dough, leaving a border around the edges.
- Layer cooked ground beef, bacon, pickles, and cheese on top of the condiments.
- Roll the dough tightly from one long end to another, sealing the edges well.
- 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. Let cool for five minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 120g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
