🍞 Garbage Bread Recipe – Cheesy Beef & Mozzarella Stuffed Bread
When it comes to hearty comfort food, few dishes can compete with Garbage Bread. Despite its quirky name, this recipe is far from “garbage”—it’s a flavorful stuffed bread roll packed with seasoned beef, melty mozzarella, tangy barbecue sauce, and a golden, cheesy crust. 🤩 Whether you’re hosting a game night, a casual party, or simply looking for a fun twist on family dinner, Garbage Bread will quickly become a favorite.
In this article, we’ll walk through the full recipe, share pro tips from top chefs, explore nutrition and health considerations, and even answer the most common questions about this viral comfort food. Ready to dive into cheesy, beefy goodness? Let’s get baking! 👩🍳
🥩 Ingredients for Garbage Bread
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the Filling
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened (about 4–5 minutes). Add ground beef and cook until browned, draining excess grease. Stir in garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, ketchup, and barbecue sauce. Cook for 2–3 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
2. Roll Out the Dough
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out refrigerated pizza dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle, roughly 12×15 inches.
3. Assemble the Bread
Spread the cooled beef mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over the top.
4. Roll & Seal
Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, pinching the seams and ends to seal. Place seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake the Bread
Brush the top with melted butter mixed with garlic powder. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the loaf. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Garnish & Serve
Allow the bread to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley and serve warm with dipping sauces. 😍
👩🍳 Expert Chef Tips
- Bobby Flay: “For extra depth, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture—it makes the flavors pop.”
- Gordon Ramsay: “Don’t overstuff the bread. A balanced filling-to-dough ratio keeps it from splitting in the oven.”
- Ina Garten: “Make this ahead and refrigerate before baking—it’s perfect for prepping before a party.”
- Ree Drummond: “Try adding jalapeños or banana peppers for a tangy kick. It’s a family favorite in my house.”
💡 Health & Safety Considerations
- Choose lean ground beef (90/10) to reduce excess grease.
- Swap beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to sneak in extra veggies. 🥬
- Ensure beef reaches 160°F (71°C) to avoid foodborne illness.
- For gluten-free, use gluten-free pizza dough and certified sauces.
🥦 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
(Based on 8 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal | Provides energy |
| Protein | 20 g | Builds muscles and repairs tissues |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g | Quick energy source |
| Fat | 18 g | Supports brain and cell health |
| Calcium | 150 mg | Strengthens bones and teeth |
| Iron | 2.5 mg | Promotes oxygen circulation |
📌 10 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is it called Garbage Bread?
The name comes from the idea of throwing in whatever “leftovers” or ingredients you have—like a kitchen sink stuffed bread!
2. Can I make Garbage Bread vegetarian?
Yes! Replace beef with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and peppers for a veggie-stuffed loaf.
3. What sauces go best with Garbage Bread?
Marinara, ranch, spicy mayo, or extra barbecue sauce are all perfect for dipping.
4. Can I freeze Garbage Bread?
Yes. Bake, cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.
5. Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble, wrap, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
6. Can I use homemade dough instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough makes it even better.
7. What cheeses work best besides mozzarella?
Cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack add great flavor twists.
8. How do I keep Garbage Bread from splitting?
Don’t overfill and make sure the seams are sealed tightly before baking.
9. Can I make mini Garbage Bread rolls?
Yes! Roll smaller portions for appetizers or party snacks.
10. How long does Garbage Bread last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it lasts 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
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✨ Final Thoughts
Garbage Bread might have a funny name, but the flavor is no joke. With a savory beef filling, gooey mozzarella, and a crispy golden crust, this stuffed bread is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve it as a game-day appetizer, a potluck centerpiece, or a casual weeknight dinner, it’s guaranteed to impress. 🥳
