Garbage Bread
Garbage Bread is a delightful dish that brings together flavors in a fantastic way. This versatile recipe combines ground beef, cheese, and condiments all wrapped in warm, fluffy bread, making it perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy night in. Its unique combination of ingredients offers satisfying bites that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Budget-Friendly: Garbage Bread uses affordable ingredients, making it an excellent choice for families looking to save money.
- Versatile Options: You can customize this recipe with your favorite meats and toppings, ensuring it suits everyone’s tastes.
- Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 40 minutes, you can have this delicious dish ready in no time.
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe serves four, making it ideal for sharing at parties or family meals.
- Ultimate Comfort Food: The combination of savory beef and melty cheese wrapped in warm bread is the epitome of comfort food.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation and make the cooking experience enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or non-stick cooking spray
- Large skillet
- Rolling pin
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents any mess from spills.
- Large Skillet: Perfect for browning the ground beef quickly and efficiently.
- Rolling Pin: Helps achieve the ideal thickness for the dough, ensuring even baking.
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 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
For 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
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 along with 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 about a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
Step 5: Layer the Fillings
Distribute evenly over the condiments:
1. Cooked ground beef,
2. Crumbled bacon,
3. Chopped pickles.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Place:
1. American cheese slices in a single layer over the fillings.
Step 7: Roll and Seal
Carefully roll up:
1. The dough from one of the long ends to another,
2. Sealing the edges tightly.
3. Place seam side down on the 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 your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Allow Garbage Bread to cool for at least five minutes before slicing it up. Serve with Thousand Island dressing for dipping! Enjoy your delicious creation!
How to Serve Garbage Bread
Garbage Bread is a fun and filling dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a gathering or just looking for a satisfying meal, here are some great serving suggestions that will elevate your experience.
With Dipping Sauces
- Thousand Island Dressing: This classic dressing pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of Garbage Bread.
- Ketchup: A simple and traditional choice that complements the bread’s taste.
- Mustard: Add a little tanginess to each bite with your favorite mustard.
As Part of a Meal
- Salad: Serve Garbage Bread alongside a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
- Soup: A warm bowl of tomato or vegetable soup makes for a cozy pairing.
- Pickles: Serve with dill pickles on the side for an extra crunch.
For Kids’ Parties
- Mini Slices: Cut the bread into smaller pieces for kid-friendly snacks.
- Fun Presentation: Arrange slices in the shape of a smiley face on the plate to make it fun for children.

How to Perfect Garbage Bread
Making Garbage Bread is easy, but these tips will help you achieve perfection every time. Follow these suggestions to enhance flavor and texture.
- Flavoring: Experiment with adding spices like garlic powder or paprika to the ground beef for extra depth.
- Cheese Variations: Try using pepper jack or mozzarella cheese for a different taste and meltiness.
- Fresh Herbs: Incorporate chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives into the filling for added freshness.
- Even Rolling: Roll out the dough evenly to ensure all ingredients cook uniformly.
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ground beef reaches 160°F for safe consumption.
Best Side Dishes for Garbage Bread
Garbage Bread is delicious on its own, but pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some fantastic options:
- Coleslaw: A crunchy and refreshing side that adds texture and balances richness.
- French Fries: Crispy fries are always a hit and provide a classic fast-food feel to your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies add nutrition and flavor, making them an excellent complement.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad can be made ahead of time, offering convenience and comfort.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings summer vibes and sweetness to your dish.
- Garlic Breadsticks: For those who love bread, garlic sticks provide another delightful carb option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Garbage Bread is a fun dish to make, but there are common mistakes that can ruin your experience. Here are a few tips to ensure success.
- Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat to ensure your Garbage Bread bakes properly.
- Overfilling the Dough: Adding too many toppings can cause the dough to burst. Stick to the recommended amounts for a perfect roll.
- Neglecting the Seal: Failing to seal the edges tightly may result in fillings leaking out during baking. Take your time to roll and pinch the dough securely.
- Not Letting it Cool: Cutting into hot bread can make it difficult to slice neatly. Allow it to cool for at least five minutes before cutting.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect how well your dough rolls. Ensure all items are at room temperature for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Garbage Bread
- Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best taste.
Reheating Garbage Bread
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place on a baking sheet, and heat for 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes; be cautious not to overcook.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Garbage Bread.
What is Garbage Bread?
Garbage Bread is a savory rolled bread filled with various delicious ingredients like ground beef, cheese, and condiments that create a satisfying meal.
Can I customize my Garbage Bread?
Absolutely! You can add different meats, vegetables, or cheeses based on your preference for a unique twist on this recipe.
How do I store leftover Garbage Bread?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze them for longer storage.
What can I serve with Garbage Bread?
Pair it with dipping sauces like Thousand Island dressing or even a side salad for a complete meal experience.
Final Thoughts
Garbage Bread is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it a delightful option for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy experimenting with different fillings!

Garbage Bread
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garbage Bread is a delightful and comforting dish that combines savory ground beef, melted cheese, and zesty condiments all wrapped in warm, fluffy bread. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in. With its customizable filling options, Garbage Bread caters to diverse tastes, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. In just 40 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for sharing or indulging solo.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup diced onion
- 11-ounce tube refrigerated French bread dough
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons mustard
- 8 slices American cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon (crumbled)
- 2 dill pickle spears (chopped)
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion; season with salt and pepper.
- Roll out the refrigerated French bread dough into a rectangle, leaving space at the edges.
- Spread ketchup and mustard on the dough, then layer cooked beef, bacon, pickles, and cheese.
- Roll the dough tightly from one end to another and place seam side down on the baking sheet.
- Brush with beaten egg, sprinkle sesame seeds on top, and 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
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 65mg