Garbage Bread
Garbage bread is a fun, hearty, and endlessly customizable stuffed bread that turns leftovers and favorite fillings into one irresistible meal. Despite its playful name, this dish is anything but ordinary. Rolled dough is packed with meats, cheeses, and vegetables, then baked until golden and melty inside. It is perfect for game day, casual dinners, parties, or anytime you want something comforting and satisfying.
The beauty of garbage bread is that there are no strict rules. You can truly use whatever you have on hand, making it a favorite for cleaning out the fridge while still creating something everyone loves.
Ingredients
1 loaf refrigerated pizza dough or bread dough
1 cup cooked ground beef or sausage
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked onions and bell peppers
1/4 cup sliced black olives
1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Optional toppings: mushrooms, pepperoni, ham, spinach, jalapeños
For brushing
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
Spread the pizza or marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.
Layer the fillings evenly over the sauce. Start with meats, then vegetables, and finish with the shredded cheeses. Sprinkle Italian seasoning and garlic powder over the top.
Rolling and Baking
Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log, tucking in the fillings as you go. Pinch the seams and ends closed to prevent leaking.
Carefully transfer the roll seam-side down onto the prepared baking sheet.
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese. Brush the mixture generously over the top of the bread.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil.
Cooling and Serving
Remove from the oven and let the bread rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes slicing easier.
Slice into thick pieces and serve warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Tips for Best Results
Do not overfill the dough to prevent bursting.
Seal the edges well to keep fillings inside.
Let the bread rest before slicing.
Use pre-cooked fillings to ensure everything heats evenly.
Variations
Make a breakfast version with scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese.
Use buffalo chicken and ranch dressing for a spicy twist.
Create a veggie version with spinach, mushrooms, and feta.
Add a drizzle of ranch or hot sauce before rolling for extra flavor.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Final Thoughts
Garbage bread is comfort food at its most fun and flexible. Cheesy, hearty, and packed with flavor, it is a recipe that encourages creativity and always delivers satisfaction, no matter what fillings you choose.