Garbage Bread
Garbage Bread is a fun and tasty dish that makes for an ideal meal any day of the week. Perfect for parties, game days, or family dinners, this recipe combines savory fillings wrapped in warm bread. Its unique blend of flavors and textures will please everyone at the table, making it a standout choice for your next gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip this up in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of beef, bacon, and cheese creates a delightful taste that will leave everyone wanting more.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap out ingredients to suit your tastes.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Garbage Bread is great for reheating, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love it! This dish is sure to become a favorite among the little ones.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: Essential for cooking the ground beef evenly and thoroughly.
- Baking Sheet: Provides a stable surface for baking your Garbage Bread to perfection.
- Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
- Rolling Pin: Helps you roll out the dough to just the right thickness for wrapping.
Ingredients
Garbage Bread is a delicious, budget-friendly dish that’s as versatile as it is satisfying.
Meat & Veggies
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup diced onion
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Dough & Condiments
- 11-ounce tube refrigerated French bread dough
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons mustard
Toppings
- 6 slices cooked and crumbled bacon (or store-bought bacon pieces)
- 2 dill pickle spears (chopped)
- 8 slices American cheese
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
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray. This will ensure your Garbage Bread bakes evenly without sticking.
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, breaking it apart as it cooks.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Drain any excess grease before moving on.
Step 3: Prepare the Dough
On a lightly floured surface:
– Roll out the refrigerated French bread dough into a large rectangle about 12×18 inches. This provides enough space for all your delicious fillings.
Step 4: Add Condiments
Spread the ketchup and mustard over the dough evenly:
– Leave about a ½-inch border around the edges to prevent spillage when rolling.
Step 5: Layer the Fillings
Distribute the cooked ground beef mixture over the condiments:
– Sprinkle crumbled bacon and chopped pickles on top evenly.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Place American cheese slices in a single layer over all fillings:
– This melty layer enhances flavor while holding everything together.
Step 7: Roll and Seal
Carefully roll up the dough from one long end to another:
– Seal edges tightly to keep fillings secure during baking.
– Place rolled dough seam side down on prepared baking sheet.
Step 8: Brush and Bake
Brush the top of the dough with beaten egg:
– Sprinkle sesame seeds generously on top.
– Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Allow your Garbage Bread to cool for at least five minutes before slicing:
– Serve warm with Thousand Island dressing on the side for dipping. Enjoy!
How to Serve Garbage Bread
Garbage Bread is a fun and hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, here are some delightful serving suggestions.
With a Side of Dipping Sauce
- Thousand Island Dressing: This classic tangy dressing pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of Garbage Bread.
- Ranch Dressing: A creamy ranch dip adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the richness of the bread.
- Barbecue Sauce: For those who love a sweet and smoky touch, barbecue sauce is a fantastic option.
As Part of a Platter
- Mixed Veggies: Serve fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and celery for a crunchy contrast.
- Cheese Board: Include assorted cheeses to enhance the flavor profiles and add variety to your meal.
- Pickles: Add some dill pickles on the side for a tangy crunch that works well with the bread’s richness.
For Game Day
- Buffalo Sauce: Spice things up with some buffalo sauce for those who enjoy heat during their game-day snacks.
- Nacho Cheese: Melted nacho cheese makes for an indulgent dip that takes your Garbage Bread experience to another level.
How to Perfect Garbage Bread
To make your Garbage Bread even more delicious, consider these helpful tips.
- Seasoning: Don’t shy away from seasoning your ground beef. Use garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly chopped onions and high-quality bacon will elevate the dish’s overall taste.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers or jalapeños for added texture and flavor.
- Check Dough Thickness: Rolling out the dough too thin may cause it to tear; aim for a nice balance where it’s thick enough to hold fillings but not too thick to bake through easily.
Best Side Dishes for Garbage Bread
Garbage Bread is delicious on its own, but pairing it with sides can enhance your meal. Here are some ideal side dishes to serve alongside.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the softness of the bread.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that complements this dish well.
- Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad adds freshness while balancing the richness of Garbage Bread.
- Garlic Breadsticks: For those who can’t get enough bread, serve warm garlic breadsticks as an additional treat.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is great for summer gatherings and brings a touch of sweetness to your meal.
- Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad offers a light and refreshing contrast, perfect for cutting through savory flavors.
- Potato Chips: Crunchy potato chips add texture and are an easy snack option alongside Garbage Bread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Garbage Bread can be a joyful experience, but a few common mistakes can hinder your results.
- Skipping the Browning Step: Failing to brown the ground beef and onions can leave your filling bland. Make sure to cook until fully browned for the best flavor.
- Not Using Enough Seasoning: Under-seasoning is a frequent error. Always season your meat well with salt and pepper for a flavorful bite.
- Rolling Too Tightly: If you roll the dough too tightly, it may burst while baking. Roll snugly but not overly tight to allow for expansion.
- Ignoring Dough Thickness: If the dough is too thick, it won’t bake evenly. Aim for an even thickness of about 1/4 inch for consistent cooking.
- Forgetting the Egg Wash: Skipping the egg wash will result in a dull-looking crust. Brush the top with beaten egg for a beautiful golden finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Garbage Bread
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Garbage Bread can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Garbage Bread
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 30-45 seconds, checking regularly.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet on low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often have questions about Garbage Bread. Here are some of the most common inquiries.
What is Garbage Bread?
Garbage Bread is a hearty dish stuffed with ground beef, cheese, and various condiments, all wrapped in bread dough. It offers great flavors and textures.
Can I customize my Garbage Bread?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or substitute different cheeses based on your preference.
How do I know when my Garbage Bread is done?
The bread should be golden brown on top when done. Use an instant-read thermometer; it should register at least 190°F in the center.
Is Garbage Bread suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It stores well in both the refrigerator and freezer, making it perfect for meal prep or quick dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Garbage Bread is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize fillings to suit your taste or dietary needs. This dish brings comfort and satisfaction, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Don’t hesitate to give it a try!
Garbage Bread
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Garbage Bread is the ultimate comfort food that combines a medley of savory ingredients enveloped in warm, fluffy bread. This crowd-pleaser is perfect for weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your family and friends. With its hearty filling of ground beef, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese, each bite promises a delightful flavor explosion. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—customize it with your favorite vegetables or sauces for a unique twist! Easy to prepare and ideal for meal prep, Garbage Bread is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup diced onion
- 11-ounce tube refrigerated French bread dough
- 6 slices cooked bacon
- 8 slices American cheese
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons mustard
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with diced onion until browned; season with salt and pepper.
- Roll out the French bread dough into a rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread ketchup and mustard on the dough, then layer with the cooked beef mixture, crumbled bacon, and cheese.
- Roll up tightly 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 (120g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
