Garbage Bread is a hearty, flavorful, and utterly satisfying dish that has gained immense popularity due to its versatility and deliciousness. The name might make you curious, but don’t be misled—this “garbage” is pure gold on your plate. In this guide, we’ll not only dive into the recipe but also explore its origins, variations, tips for perfection, and serving suggestions.
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The Story Behind Garbage Bread
Garbage Bread is believed to have originated as a way to use up leftover ingredients from the fridge—hence the name. Its roots are intertwined with the classic “everything pizza” concept, where you pile on whatever toppings you have. Over the years, it has evolved into a creative and structured recipe that combines a meaty filling, gooey cheese, and flaky pizza dough.
This dish’s beauty lies in its adaptability—you can experiment with fillings based on your personal tastes or what’s available. Whether it’s for a quick dinner, a party appetizer, or a game-day snack, Garbage Bread always hits the spot.
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Recipe Overview: Garbage Bread
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef 🥩: The savory foundation of the filling.
½ cup cooked chopped bacon 🥓: Adds a smoky, crispy element.
1 Tbsp McCormick Grill Mates Hamburger seasoning 🌿: Enhances the beef’s flavor.
1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce 🍶: Brings umami depth.
8 oz Velveeta, cubed 🧀: Melts into creamy, gooey perfection.
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese 🧀: Adds richness and texture.
1 (13.8 oz) can pizza dough 🍕: Serves as the base for the bread.
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Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven:
Preheat the oven to 425ºF (220ºC).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Filling:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the ground beef until no pink remains.
Drain excess grease to avoid sogginess.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Transfer the cooked beef to a large bowl.
Add the chopped bacon, hamburger seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and Velveeta cheese.
Mix until the Velveeta begins to melt and everything is well combined.
4. Prepare the Dough:
Roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle measuring 15×10 inches.
Spread the meat mixture evenly across the dough, leaving a small border.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the filling.
5. Roll It Up:
Starting from the long edge, roll the dough into a tight log.
Pinch the edges to seal and place the loaf seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Season and Bake:
Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning over the top for an added crunch.
Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Rest and Serve:
Let the bread cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Serve and enjoy this indulgent treat!
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Variations of Garbage Bread
1. Breakfast Garbage Bread:
Swap the ground beef for breakfast sausage, add scrambled eggs, and replace Velveeta with a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
2. Veggie Lover’s Bread:
Use sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and spinach. Substitute the beef with black beans or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
3. Buffalo Chicken Garbage Bread:
Combine shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles for a spicy kick.
4. Pizza Garbage Bread:
Layer pepperoni, mozzarella, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning.
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Pro Tips for the Perfect Garbage Bread
1. Use Cold Dough:
Chilled dough is easier to work with and less likely to tear.
2. Don’t Overfill:
While tempting, overloading the bread can lead to leaks. Stick to recommended quantities.
3. Seal Tightly:
Ensuring the edges are pinched tightly will help maintain the shape and prevent the filling from escaping.
4. Experiment with Toppings:
Beyond everything bagel seasoning, try garlic powder, sesame seeds, or grated Parmesan on top.
5. Make It Ahead:
Assemble the bread a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake fresh when needed.
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Nutritional Information
While indulgent, you can tweak this recipe to make it lighter. Substitute ground beef with lean turkey, use reduced-fat cheeses, or opt for a whole-grain pizza dough.
Approximate Nutrition (per slice, serves 8):
Calories: 420
Protein: 20g
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 25g
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Serving Suggestions
Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch, marinara, or a spicy aioli.
Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
Drinks: Complement the rich flavors with a cold beer, sparkling water, or iced tea.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze Garbage Bread?
Yes! Assemble the bread, freeze it unbaked, and bake directly from frozen—just add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
2. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Warm slices in the oven at 350ºF for 10 minutes to maintain their texture.
3. Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pizza dough and ensure seasonings are gluten-free.
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The Charm of Garbage Bread
Garbage Bread is more than just a recipe—it’s a testament to creativity in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, cleaning out your fridge, or simply craving something indulgent, this dish has you covered. Its flexibility and robust flavors make it a beloved comfort food that continues to win hearts worldwide.
So, roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and bake a loaf of this irresistible treat. You’ll find that Garbage Bread is as fun to make as it is to eat!
