Ah, Garbage Bread—what a fun name for such a delightful dish! This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s a true crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress friends and family. I still remember the first time I made this for a potluck. I was a little nervous, thinking everyone might think it was just a hodgepodge of leftovers. But boy, was I wrong! It was gone in minutes, with several requests for the recipe to follow.
What I love about Garbage Bread is how versatile it is. You can toss in whatever ingredients you have on hand, turning it into a unique creation each time. It’s got layers of flavor, a beautiful golden crust, and the cheesy, savory goodness makes it utterly irresistible. So, if you’re looking for a dish that’s a party in every bite (and was born from culinary creativity), look no further!
What’s in Garbage Bread?
Let’s break it down, shall we? Here’s what you’ll need for this delectable treat:
Ground Beef (or Sausage): This is your protein base. I often use ground beef for its rich flavor, but sausage adds a nice kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
Onion: Chopped onions add great depth and sweetness to the filling, enhancing the overall flavor.
Bell Peppers: These colorful beauties not only add crunch but also bring a touch of sweetness. Use any color you prefer—they all work well!
Mushrooms (optional): If you’re a mushroom lover, toss ‘em in! They give added umami and help keep everything moist.
Pickles: Yes, pickles! Whether you prefer dill or sweet bread and butter, they add a zesty punch that makes this dish truly unique.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: This is the glue of our Garbage Bread. It melts beautifully and holds everything together.
Bacon: Who can resist crumbled bacon? It adds that delicious smokiness and crunch.
Refrigerated Pizza Dough: For ease and convenience, I usually use a tube of store-bought dough. However, if you’re up for it, homemade dough is always a winner.
Olive Oil: A little oil for sautéing the veggies!
Garlic Powder: Just a sprinkle to enhance the flavors.
Seasoning Salt and Black Pepper: Simple yet effective seasonings to elevate the taste of the filling.
Egg (for egg wash): This gives the bread that beautiful golden finish.
Sesame Seeds (optional): If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some on the top before baking for a lovely touch!
Is Garbage Bread Good for You?
So, is it nutritious? Well, like with all indulgent dishes, it’s about moderation and balance.
Ground Beef: Packed with protein and iron, it’s great for muscle development but can be high in fat, especially if you choose a higher-fat blend. Opt for lean ground beef if you want to lighten things up!
Bacon: This is definitely a delicious treat, but it’s also high in sodium and saturated fats, so use sparingly if that’s a concern.
Vegetables (Onion, Bell Peppers, Mushrooms): These add fiber and vitamins to the mix. They’re not just added for fun; they enhance the nutritional profile of your garbage bread.
Cheddar Cheese: While cheesiness is part of the charm, it does contribute calories and fat. Go for reduced-fat cheese if you’re keeping an eye on those numbers.
All in all, enjoy your garbage bread in moderation, and it can fit nicely into a balanced diet!
Garbage Bread Ingredients List
– 1 lb ground beef (or sausage)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
– 1 cup mushrooms, diced (optional)
– 1 cup pickles, diced (dill or bread and butter)
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade dough)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp seasoning salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Sesame seeds (for topping, optional)
This recipe serves about 4-6 people, depending on how hungry you all are!
How to Make Garbage Bread?
Alright, let’s dive into the magic of making Garbage Bread! Follow these simple steps:
1. **Preheat your oven** to 375°F (190°C). Get that heat going!
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add your **olive oil** and sauté the chopped **onion** and **bell peppers** until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the **ground beef** to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.
4. Stir in the diced **pickles**, **mushrooms** (if using), **garlic powder**, **seasoning salt**, and **black pepper**. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to combine those flavors. Then, remove from heat.
5. Roll out the **pizza dough** on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 12×16 inches). Make it nice and flat!
6. Sprinkle half of the **shredded cheddar cheese** evenly over the dough. Then, layer the beef mixture on top of the cheese.
7. Sprinkle the crumbled **bacon** over the beef mixture, followed by the remaining cheese.
8. Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, sealing the edges to prevent filling from leaking out.
9. Transfer the rolled bread to a greased baking sheet, seam side down. Brush the top with beaten **egg** and sprinkle with **sesame seeds** (if using).
10. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
11. Allow the garbage bread to cool for a few minutes before slicing into delicious pieces.
Creative Twists on Garbage Bread
Want to dive deeper into creativity? Here are some fun variations and serving suggestions:
– **Spicy Kick:** Add some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the meat mixture for a zesty touch!
– **Different Cheeses:** Switch it up by incorporating a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for an extra depth of flavor.
– **Dipping Delights:** Serve warm with a side of marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping. Yum!
– **Veggie Lovers Unite:** Load it up with additional veggies like olives, spinach, or artichokes for a fresher twist.
I can’t wait for you to try this Garbage Bread! It’s such a fun and filling dish, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. And remember, it’s all about making it your own. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll be delighted at how satisfying and delicious it is. So roll up your sleeves and get to the good stuff—happy cooking!
