Garbage Bread is a fantastic dish that combines savory flavors into a delightful package. This budget-friendly recipe is perfect for family dinners, parties, or even a casual get-together with friends. Its versatility allows you to customize the fillings based on what you have on hand, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights. Plus, the crispy golden crust and gooey cheese make it irresistible!

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- Ingredient Groups
- Meat & Vegetables
- Seasonings
- Dough & Condiments
- Fillings
- Topping
- For Dipping
- How to Make Garbage Bread
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Step 3: Prepare the Dough
- Step 4: Add Condiments
- Step 5: Layer the Fillings
- Step 6: Add Cheese
- Step 7: Roll and Seal
- Step 8: Brush and Bake
- Step 9: Cool and Serve
- How to Serve Garbage Bread
- With Dipping Sauces
- As a Meal
- As Leftovers
- How to Perfect Garbage Bread
- Best Side Dishes for Garbage Bread
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Garbage Bread
- Reheating Garbage Bread
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Garbage Bread?
- Can I customize my Garbage Bread?
- How do I ensure my Garbage Bread is crispy?
- Is Garbage Bread suitable for meal prep?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Garbage Bread comes together in just 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients or add your favorite toppings to suit your taste.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving family or guests, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.
- Budget-Friendly: Using simple ingredients keeps costs low while delivering maximum flavor.
- Comfort Food Classic: The combination of beef, cheese, and bacon wrapped in bread is the ultimate comfort food.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Garbage Bread, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Large skillet
- Rolling pin
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for even baking and easy handling of your Garbage Bread.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup after baking.
- Large skillet: Offers ample space to cook your ground beef and onions thoroughly.
Ingredients
Garbage Bread is a delicious, budget-friendly dish that’s as versatile as it is satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– ½ cup diced onion
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon pepper
– 11-ounce tube refrigerated French bread dough
– 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
– 1 large egg (beaten)
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
– Thousand Island dressing for dipping
Ingredient Groups
Meat & Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup diced onion
Seasonings
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Dough & Condiments
- 11-ounce tube refrigerated French bread dough
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons mustard
Fillings
- 6 slices cooked and crumbled bacon (or store-bought bacon pieces)
- 2 dill pickle spears (chopped)
- 8 slices American cheese
Topping
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
For Dipping
- Thousand Island dressing
How to Make Garbage Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Cook the ground beef and diced onion until fully browned.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Drain any excess grease before proceeding.
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
Spread the ketchup and mustard evenly over the dough:
– Leave a 1/2-inch border around the edges for sealing later.
Step 5: Layer the Fillings
Next, evenly distribute:
– The cooked ground beef over the condiments.
– Sprinkle crumbled bacon and chopped pickles on top for added flavor.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Place American cheese slices in a single layer over the fillings to ensure every bite is cheesy goodness.
Step 7: Roll and Seal
Carefully roll up the dough:
1. Start from one of the long ends to the other.
2. Seal the edges tightly to keep all the delicious fillings inside.
3. Place rolled dough seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 8: Brush and Bake
Brush the top of the dough with beaten egg:
– Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added texture.
– Bake in preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Allow your Garbage Bread to cool for at least five minutes before slicing:
Serve warm with Thousand Island dressing for dipping, adding an extra layer of flavor!
How to Serve Garbage Bread
Garbage Bread is a fun and hearty dish that makes for an excellent meal. It pairs well with a variety of sides and dips, enhancing its flavors while providing a satisfying dining experience.
With Dipping Sauces
- Thousand Island Dressing: This tangy dressing complements the savory flavors of the bread.
- Ranch Dressing: A creamy ranch dressing adds a cool contrast to the warm bread.
- Marinara Sauce: For an Italian twist, serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
As a Meal
- With a Side Salad: A fresh garden salad adds crispness and balances the richness of Garbage Bread.
- On Game Day: Serve slices of Garbage Bread during game day gatherings for a crowd-pleasing snack.
- For Family Dinner: Pair with roasted vegetables for a complete family dinner that everyone will love.
As Leftovers
- Reheated in the Oven: Reheat slices in the oven for crispy edges and melted cheese.
- Cold Sandwiches: Enjoy leftover slices cold as a unique sandwich option for lunch.

How to Perfect Garbage Bread
To elevate your Garbage Bread, consider these simple tips. They will help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Selecting fresh ground beef and vegetables ensures better taste and quality.
- Customize Fillings: Feel free to add different meats or veggies based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Don’t Overstuff: Avoid overfilling to prevent difficulty in rolling and potential mess during baking.
- Check Dough Thickness: Ensure your dough is rolled out evenly; uneven dough can lead to inconsistent baking results.
Best Side Dishes for Garbage Bread
Garbage Bread pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some suggestions to round out your meal.
- Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds freshness and contrasts nicely with the warm bread.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges provide a comforting companion that’s easy to prepare.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy option that balances the dish’s richness.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings strong flavors that enhance the overall meal experience.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness, making it an ideal summer side dish.
- Chips and Salsa: For a casual touch, serve with tortilla chips and salsa for added crunch and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Garbage Bread, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:
- Ignoring the Dough Thickness: Rolling the dough too thin can lead to a soggy filling. Aim for about ¼ inch thickness for the best texture.
- Overfilling the Bread: Adding too many ingredients might make it difficult to roll. Stick to the recommended amounts for a perfect roll.
- Skipping the Cooling Time: Cutting into the bread immediately can cause the filling to spill out. Allow it to cool for at least five minutes before slicing.
- Not Sealing Properly: Failing to seal the edges tightly may result in leakage during baking. Ensure you pinch and seal all edges well.
- Neglecting Oven Temperature: Baking at too low a temperature can lead to undercooked bread. Always preheat your oven properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Garbage Bread in an airtight container.
- It will remain fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Garbage Bread
- Wrap individual slices or whole pieces tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- You can freeze them for up to 2 months.
Reheating Garbage Bread
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, wrap in foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30 seconds at a time until hot, but this may make it soggy.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a lid on until warmed through, which keeps it crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Garbage Bread:
What is Garbage Bread?
Garbage Bread is a delicious, stuffed bread recipe that combines various savory fillings wrapped in dough, making it a fun and satisfying meal option.
Can I customize my Garbage Bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out meats, cheeses, or add veggies based on your preferences. The versatility makes it easy to create your perfect combination.
How do I ensure my Garbage Bread is crispy?
To achieve a crispy crust, be sure to brush the top with beaten egg and bake at the proper temperature until golden brown.
Is Garbage Bread suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It stores well and reheats easily, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or leftovers.
Final Thoughts
Garbage Bread is not only budget-friendly but also incredibly versatile. It allows you to get creative with fillings and flavors while providing comfort and satisfaction. Don’t hesitate to try different ingredients that suit your taste!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Garbage Bread
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
Description
Garbage Bread is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory flavors in a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This budget-friendly recipe allows you to customize the fillings based on what you have at home, making it ideal for busy weeknights or fun gatherings with friends and family. With its crispy golden crust and gooey cheese, Garbage Bread is sure to impress everyone at the table. Whether you serve it as a hearty main dish or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this stuffed bread will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup diced onion
- 11-ounce tube refrigerated French bread dough
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons mustard
- 6 slices cooked bacon (crumbled)
- 8 slices American cheese
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- Sesame seeds for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onions until browned. Season with salt and pepper.
- Roll out the French bread dough into a large rectangle.
- Spread ketchup and mustard on the dough, leaving a border around the edges.
- Layer cooked beef, crumbled bacon, and American cheese on top.
- Roll the dough tightly from one end to another, sealing edges well.
- Place seam side down on the baking sheet, brush with beaten egg, and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown. Allow cooling before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg