Introduction

What is Garbage Bread?

Garbage Bread is a fun and delicious stuffed bread recipe that combines the flavors of your favorite ingredients into one irresistible dish. Often referred to as the perfect comfort food, it’s made by filling a rolled-out pizza dough with a mix of meat, cheese, and seasonings, then baked to golden perfection.

Why is it a versatile and beloved dish?

One of the key reasons Garbage Bread is so popular is its incredible versatility. You can stuff it with just about anything—from traditional fillings like sausage and pepperoni to vegetarian options like roasted vegetables or plant-based proteins. Whether it’s served as a game-day appetizer, a quick family dinner, or a crowd-pleasing party snack, this recipe adapts to any occasion.

Brief History and Popularity

While the origins of Garbage Bread aren’t clear, it has grown in popularity as a go-to stuffed bread recipe. Its resemblance to classic calzones and strombolis has made it a favorite in homes across the U.S. King Arthur Baking even provides tips for maximizing the use of refrigerated pizza dough, making this dish even more approachable for beginners.

Ingredients Overview

Here’s a comprehensive list of everything you’ll need to make your Garbage Bread:

1 tube (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
½ pound ground beef or sausage, cooked and crumbled
½ cup pepperoni slices, chopped
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Salt and pepper to taste
¼ cup marinara sauce (optional, for dipping)

Flexibility of the Fillings

The beauty of this dish lies in its customization. Whether you're looking to keep it vegetarian with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and feta or want to pack in the protein with bacon and chicken, this dish welcomes endless possibilities.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Dough Preparation

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Make sure the dough is even to prevent uneven baking.

2. Preparing the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef or sausage, chopped pepperoni, mozzarella, cheddar, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined. This ensures every bite of the Garbage Bread is packed with flavor.

3. Assembling the Roll

Spread the filling mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.
Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the edges to seal the seam and the ends.
Place the roll seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the surface with the beaten egg for a beautiful golden crust.

4. Baking

Bake the roll in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing into thick pieces.

Baking Instructions

Proper Oven Setup and Baking Tips

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it’s fully heated before baking to guarantee an even cook. Use a middle rack position to promote balanced heat distribution.
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to make cleanup easier.
Place your rolled Garbage Bread seam-side down on the sheet. This prevents the bread from opening up during baking.

How to Achieve a Perfect Golden Crust

Egg wash is the secret to a beautifully golden crust. Beat one egg thoroughly and brush it over the top and sides of the dough before baking.
For extra crispness, you can sprinkle the surface with a pinch of coarse salt or sesame seeds before putting it in the oven.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, but check the bread in the last few minutes. Once the crust turns golden brown, it’s ready to come out.

Serving Suggestions

Best Ways to Serve Garbage Bread

Let the Garbage Bread cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set, making it easier to slice into thick, clean portions.
Slice into 2-inch rounds for hearty servings or smaller pieces for appetizers or party snacks.

Ideal Side Dishes and Dipping Sauces

Serve with a warm marinara sauce for dipping. Garlic butter or ranch dressing also make fantastic options.
Pair with a simple side salad for a balanced meal or roasted vegetables for added texture and flavor.
For a heartier plate, consider serving alongside potato wedges or creamy coleslaw.

Creative Variations and Customization

Different Fillings for Every Preference

Vegetarian: Load your Garbage Bread with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, roasted red peppers, and a blend of feta and mozzarella cheese.
Vegan: Use plant-based meats, vegan mozzarella, and cashew-based ricotta to create a delicious, dairy-free alternative.
Protein-packed: Combine grilled chicken, bacon, and cheddar for a filling that’s both hearty and flavorful.

Global Twists for Unique Flavors

Mexican-style: Add seasoned ground beef, black beans, jalapeños, and shredded pepper jack cheese. Serve with salsa or guacamole for dipping.
Italian-style: Use prosciutto, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and ricotta for an upscale twist.
Asian-inspired: Fill with teriyaki chicken, green onions, and shredded carrots, and serve with a side of soy or sweet chili dipping sauce.

Tips for Making it Gluten-Free or Low-Carb

Opt for a store-bought gluten-free pizza dough to accommodate dietary restrictions.
For a low-carb version, try using a cheese-based keto dough or a cauliflower crust. These options still provide excellent texture and flavor.

Nutritional Insights

Calorie Count and Nutritional Breakdown

One serving of Garbage Bread (approximately ⅙ of the roll) provides around 310 calories, making it a hearty and satisfying dish. Here’s a quick nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 310 kcal
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fats: 16g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 700mg

The exact nutritional values will vary depending on your chosen fillings, but the combination of protein from the meat and cheese, carbohydrates from the dough, and fats make this a well-rounded meal.

How to Make Garbage Bread Healthier

Swap out the refrigerated pizza dough for a whole-grain dough to increase fiber content.
Use lean proteins like ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or sausage.
Cut back on the cheese or use low-fat options like part-skim mozzarella to reduce fat and calorie levels.
Pack the bread with vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms to add nutrients and lower calorie density.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Best Practices for Storing Leftovers

Let the leftover Garbage Bread cool completely before storing to avoid sogginess.
Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

How to Reheat Without Losing Texture

For the best results, reheat slices in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This keeps the crust crispy and the filling warm.
If you’re in a hurry, use a microwave but wrap the slice in a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

FAQs

What is Garbage Bread made of?

Garbage Bread is typically made from a base of refrigerated pizza dough, filled with a flavorful combination of meat, cheese, and seasonings. Common ingredients include ground beef or sausage, pepperoni, shredded mozzarella and cheddar, and spices like garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Its versatility allows for endless filling variations, from vegetarian to vegan options.

Can I use homemade dough instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! If you prefer a homemade touch, a simple pizza dough recipe works perfectly. Using homemade dough allows you to adjust the flavor and texture to your liking. For tips on making or using dough effectively, explore King Arthur Baking’s guide to pizza dough.

How long does Garbage Bread stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Garbage Bread stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep it longer, freezing is a better option.

What are some beginner-friendly filling combinations?

For beginners, keep it simple with these classic combinations:

Ground beef, shredded mozzarella, and marinara sauce.
Pepperoni, cheddar cheese, and garlic butter.
Ham, Swiss cheese, and a touch of mustard for a savory twist.

Can I freeze Garbage Bread?

Yes! Garbage Bread freezes beautifully. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.

Conclusion

Garbage Bread is the ultimate customizable dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to experiment with different flavors, from vegetarian-friendly options to globally inspired twists. Whether you use store-bought or homemade dough, it’s a simple recipe that guarantees impressive results.

Ready to give it a try? Create your own version and let your creativity shine! Share your favorite Garbage Bread variations and experiences with friends, family, or on social media. Who knows? You might inspire someone to create their own masterpiece!