Looking for a versatile and budget-friendly dish that can turn your random leftovers into a culinary delight ? Enter the realm of Garbage Bread. Don’t be put off by its unglamorous name; Garbage Bread is a satisfying and delicious creation that wraps up all your favorite sandwich or pizza toppings in a warm, golden loaf. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner, a fun appetizer, or a game day snack, Garbage Bread has got you covered.
Why Garbage Bread Is Your New Best Friend in the Kitchen
– Cost-Effective: Utilize ingredients already in your pantry to save money and cut down on food waste.
– Highly Customizable: Tailor the fillings to your liking or based on available leftovers for endless taste possibilities.
– Easy to Prepare: Simple steps and quick prep make it suitable for cooks of all skill levels.
– Kid-Friendly: The cheesy and meaty filling is a hit with kids, making it a family favorite.
Ingredients
– Ground Beef (1 pound): Adds savory flavor and protein.
– Diced Onion (½ cup): Provides aromatic depth to the filling.
– Salt (¼ teaspoon) and Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Seasonings to enhance taste.
– Refrigerated French Bread Dough (11-ounce tube): The base for your Garbage Bread.
– Ketchup (⅓ cup) and Mustard (3 tablespoons): Tangy condiments for added flavor.
– Cooked and Crumbled Bacon (6 slices) or Store-Bought Bacon Pieces: Offer smoky goodness.
– Dill Pickle Spears (2), chopped: Bring a hint of tanginess.
– American Cheese (8 slices): Melts into gooey goodness.
– Egg (1, beaten): Egg wash for a golden crust.
– Sesame Seeds (1 tablespoon): Enhances visual appeal and adds a nutty flavor.
– Thousand Island Dressing: Optional dipping sauce.
How to Make Garbage Bread
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare: Heat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef: Brown the ground beef and diced onion in a skillet over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper, then drain excess grease.
Step 3: Prepare the Dough: Roll out the refrigerated French bread dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
Step 4: Add Condiments: Spread ketchup and mustard over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
Step 5: Layer the Fillings: Evenly distribute the cooked ground beef, bacon, and pickles on top of the condiments.
Step 6: Add Cheese: Place American cheese slices over the fillings.
Step 7: Roll and Seal: Roll the dough tightly, starting from one long end to the other, and seal the edges. Place seam side down on the baking sheet.
Step 8: Brush and Bake: Brush the dough with beaten egg, sprinkle sesame seeds, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Step 9: Cool and Serve: Let the Garbage Bread cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with Thousand Island dressing for dipping.
Storage Options
To store Garbage Bread, keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave, oven, or air fryer before serving. For long-term storage, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to two months.
Variations and Substitutions
– BBQ Chicken Garbage Bread: Try barbecue sauce, shredded chicken, red onions, and mozzarella cheese.
– Pizza Garbage Bread: Use pizza sauce, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil.
– Breakfast Garbage Bread: Include scrambled eggs, bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions.
– Vegetarian Garbage Bread: Opt for sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, spinach, and your favorite cheese.
– Mexican Garbage Bread: Go for refried beans, seasoned ground beef or turkey, cheddar cheese, and jalapenos. Serve with salsa and sour cream.
What to Serve With Garbage Bread
Pair your Garbage Bread with these complementary dishes:
– Side Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
– Roasted Vegetables
– Fresh Fruit Platter
– Crispy Potato Wedges
Frequently Asked Questions
– What’s the best way to serve Garbage Bread?: Enjoy warm or at room temperature with gooey melted cheese.
– Can I use different types of cheese?: Absolutely! Try mozzarella, Pepper Jack, or any cheese you love.
– Is ground beef the only option for the filling?: No, feel free to use ground chicken, turkey, sausage, or meat-free alternatives.
– What other variations can I try?: Experiment with BBQ Chicken, Pizza, Breakfast, Vegetarian, or Mexican fillings.
After making Garbage Bread, you can expect a deliciously satisfying meal that combines savory fillings wrapped in warm, golden dough. The cheesy, tangy, and meaty flavors meld together for a comforting and crowd-pleasing dish. Your taste buds are in for a treat with each flavorful bite.
Garbage Bread
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 0.5 cup diced onion
- 0.25 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp pepper
- 1 tube refrigerated French bread dough
- 0.33 cup ketchup
- 3 tbsp mustard
- 6 slices cooked and crumbled bacon
- 2 dill pickle spears chopped
- 8 slices American cheese
- 1 egg beaten
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare a baking sheet.
- Brown ground beef and onion, season with salt and pepper.
- Roll out French bread dough to 12x18-inch rectangle, spread ketchup and mustard.
- Layer cooked ground beef, bacon, pickles, and cheese on the dough.
- Roll tightly, seal, brush with beaten egg, sprinkle sesame seeds, bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Cool, slice, and serve with Thousand Island dressing if desired.