Garbage Bread

🧾 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


👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray with nonstick spray.

  2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until beef is no longer pink. Stir in salt and pepper. Drain excess fat.

  3. Prepare the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the French bread dough into a large rectangle (approximately 12×18 inches).

  4. Add Condiments: Spread ketchup and mustard evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border on all sides.

  5. Layer the Fillings: Top with the cooked meat mixture, followed by crumbled bacon and chopped pickles.

  6. Add Cheese: Lay the American cheese slices evenly over the top of the fillings.

  7. Roll and Seal: Carefully roll the dough lengthwise like a jelly roll. Pinch edges to seal and place the loaf seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

  8. Brush and Bake: Brush the top with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.

  9. Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with Thousand Island dressing on the side for dipping.


🌯 Delicious Variations to Try

BBQ Chicken Garbage Bread

  • Ingredients: Shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, red onions, mozzarella

  • Instructions: Follow the basic recipe steps with these fillings.

Pizza Garbage Bread

  • Ingredients: Pizza sauce, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil

  • Instructions: Follow the same steps with pizza-inspired ingredients.

Breakfast Garbage Bread

  • Ingredients: Scrambled eggs, bacon, cheddar, green onions

  • Instructions: Roll up your favorite breakfast in the dough and bake!

Vegetarian Garbage Bread

  • Ingredients: Mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, spinach, cheese

  • Instructions: Sauté veggies first, then follow the base recipe.

Mexican Garbage Bread

  • Ingredients: Refried beans, seasoned ground beef, cheddar, jalapeños

  • Instructions: Assemble as directed, and serve with salsa and sour cream.


🧠 Tips for Garbage Bread Success

  • Use a floured surface to prevent sticking.

  • 🔒 Seal the edges tightly to avoid fillings leaking out.

  • 🚫 Don’t overfill—it can cause the dough to tear.

  • Let it rest before slicing for cleaner cuts.

  • 🎨 Get creative with fillings—don’t be afraid to experiment!

  • ⏲️ Watch the baking time—ovens vary.

  • 🍽️ Serve it fresh, or reheat leftovers for another great meal.


⚖️ Nutrition Information

  • Calories: 714 kcal

  • Carbohydrates: 47g

  • Protein: 35g

  • Fat: 41g

  • Sodium: 1919 mg

  • Fiber: 3g

  • Sugar: 7g

🔍 Nutrition Disclaimer: These values are estimates. For accurate nutritional data, use a calculator based on the exact brands and quantities you use.


Garbage Bread is more than just a clever way to use leftovers—it’s a flavorful, versatile meal that the whole family will love 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦. Whether you stick to the classic or try out new fillings, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy the rich flavor, gooey cheese, and the satisfaction of turning leftovers into something amazing. 🍞🧀🎉

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