Garbage Bread is a fun and messy treat, stuffed with all your favorite goodies! Think of a soft, warm bread filled with cheese, meats, and veggies—like a pizza in a loaf!
Honestly, the name makes it sound odd, but it’s a hit at parties! I love using up leftovers, so it’s perfect for any fridge finds. Just roll, stuff, bake, and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: You can use ground beef or sausage for this recipe. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey works well too. I like using sausage for a little extra flavor.
Onion: A small onion is enough, but if you want more flavor, use a larger onion or mix in a shallot. For those avoiding onions, try using leeks or shallots as alternatives.
Bell Pepper: Any color of bell pepper will bring nice sweetness and crunch. You can switch it out for a zucchini or spinach if you prefer more greens.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but mozzarella or a blend adds great texture. If you want to keep it dairy-free, vegan cheese works too!
Pizza Dough: Store-bought pizza dough saves time, but homemade dough can be super rewarding. If you’re pressed for time, crescent roll dough can be a fun substitute, yielding a flakier bread.
How do I Roll and Seal the Garbage Bread Properly?
Rolling and sealing your Garbage Bread is key to keeping the filling inside. Here’s how to do it right:
- After laying out your dough, spread sauce and filling evenly.
- Start rolling from one long edge. Keep it tight but not so tight that the filling squeezes out.
- Seal the edges by pinching them together. Make sure the ends are securely closed too—nobody wants a filling leak!
- Place the seam-side down on the baking sheet to help keep it sealed during baking.
Taking the time to check your seals will mean fewer surprises once the bread is baked. Happy cooking!
How to Make Garbage Bread?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or sausage)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
For the Dough:
- 1 package pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup pizza sauce (optional)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to bake. In total, you can expect to spend about 45 minutes from start to finish! It’s a great dish for a quick and satisfying meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s ready when you finish preparing the bread!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic, cooking them for about 5 minutes. You want the vegetables to be tender and flavorful, so keep an eye on them!
3. Cook the Meat:
Add the ground beef (or sausage) to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up while it cooks. You’ll want to cook it for about 7-10 minutes, until the meat is browned and no longer pink. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Once done, take it off the heat and let it cool for a bit.
4. Roll Out the Dough:
On a floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a rectangle shape, about 12×18 inches. Make sure it’s even so that your garbage bread bakes nicely!
5. Add the Sauce and Filling:
If you’re using pizza sauce, spread it evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Then, scoop the beef and vegetable mixture onto the sauce and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
6. Roll and Seal:
Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly to create a log shape. Make sure to seal the edges well, pinching them to prevent the filling from leaking out. The ends should also be pinched to keep everything inside!
7. Prepare for Baking:
Carefully place the rolled bread, seam-side down, onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will help with cleanup later!
8. Brush with Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, beat the egg and brush it all over the top of the bread. This will give it a beautiful golden finish when baked!
9. Bake the Bread:
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for a nice golden-brown color—your kitchen will smell amazing!
10. Let It Cool and Serve:
Once baked, carefully take the garbage bread out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, slice it into pieces and sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for an added touch. Enjoy your delicious garbage bread!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter alternative to beef or sausage. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly, as poultry may have different cooking times. You might want to add a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor, as turkey and chicken can be milder than beef.
What Can I Substitute for Pizza Dough?
If you don’t have pizza dough on hand, you can use crescent roll dough, puff pastry, or even bread dough! Just be sure to adjust the baking time as needed, especially if using a different dough type, as some may require less time in the oven.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Garbage Bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or use a microwave for a quicker option. Enjoying it warm will keep it tasting fresh!
