If you’ve never heard of Garbage Bread, don’t be fooled by its funny name—it’s one of the most delicious, crowd-pleasing comfort foods you’ll ever make. This rolled-up loaf of cheesy, meaty goodness gets its name from the idea that you can “throw in” almost anything you have left in your fridge—like leftover taco meat, cheese, vegetables, or sauces—and it’ll come out incredible every time. Perfect for game days, parties, or even a cozy dinner, Garbage Bread combines the best parts of pizza, calzones, and sandwiches into one warm, golden loaf.
Ingredients
For the dough (or use store-bought pizza dough):
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2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
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¾ cup warm water (about 110°F)
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1 teaspoon sugar
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 tablespoon olive oil
For the filling (customizable):
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½ pound ground beef (or sausage, or shredded chicken)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 small bell pepper, diced
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup cooked bacon pieces (optional)
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½ cup pizza sauce or marinara
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Salt and pepper to taste
For the topping:
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1 tablespoon melted butter
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
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Dried parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Make the dough
If you’re using homemade dough, start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt, then add the olive oil and yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
If using store-bought pizza dough, you can skip this step—just let it rest at room temperature for 20–30 minutes so it’s easier to roll out.
Step 2: Prepare the filling
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with onions and bell peppers until the meat is browned and the vegetables are soft. Drain off excess fat. Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in your sauce—pizza sauce or marinara—just enough to coat the mixture without making it soggy. Let it cool slightly before assembling.
Step 3: Roll out the dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a large rectangle about 12×15 inches. The thinner you roll it, the more evenly your ingredients will be distributed.
Step 4: Add the filling
Spread the meat mixture evenly over the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border along the edges. Sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top, followed by the cooked bacon bits (if using). Don’t overload it, or it’ll be difficult to roll.
Step 5: Roll and seal
Starting with one of the long edges, roll the dough tightly into a log, just like you would for cinnamon rolls. Pinch the seams to seal the edges, and tuck the ends underneath to prevent filling from spilling out during baking.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the rolled dough seam-side down. Brush the top with melted butter, then sprinkle with garlic powder, Parmesan, and a little parsley. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
Once baked, let the Garbage Bread cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set and keeps it from oozing out too much when you cut it.
Step 7: Serve
Slice the bread into thick rounds using a serrated knife. Serve warm with a side of marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic butter for dipping. Each slice is loaded with gooey cheese, savory meat, and the perfect crunch from the golden crust.
Variations and Tips
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Taco Garbage Bread: Use leftover taco meat, shredded cheddar, and a bit of salsa or nacho cheese sauce for a spicy twist.
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Buffalo Chicken Garbage Bread: Mix shredded cooked chicken with buffalo sauce and ranch dressing, then add mozzarella and blue cheese crumbles.
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Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and load up with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, roasted peppers, and olives.
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Breakfast Style: Try scrambled eggs, crumbled sausage, and shredded cheese for a hearty morning version.
Tips for Success:
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Don’t overfill the bread—too much filling can cause it to burst open during baking.
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Let it rest before cutting to keep slices neat and prevent cheese runoff.
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Store leftovers wrapped in foil in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Garbage Bread is more than just a way to use up leftovers—it’s a comforting, shareable dish that everyone at the table will fight over. Each slice has a perfect balance of crispy crust, melty cheese, and flavorful filling. It’s the ultimate game-day snack, a fun family dinner, or even a creative potluck contribution. What makes it truly special is its versatility—no two loaves have to be the same, and you can tailor it to whatever you crave or have on hand.
