Garbage Bread

If you’ve ever stared at the random leftovers in your fridge and wondered what to make, let me introduce you to a clever and comforting recipe: Garbage Bread.
Despite the funny name, this dish is a budget-friendly, family-pleasing idea that’s as flexible as it is tasty. Imagine your favorite sandwich or burger fillings all wrapped up in a warm, golden loaf. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun appetizer, or even a snack for game day.
In this article, we’ll walk through the origins of Garbage Bread, step-by-step instructions to make it, some variations you can try, and helpful tips for success.

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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 beef or turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled (or finely chopped halal smoked sausage)
• 2 dill pickle spears, chopped
• 8 slices American cheese (or any melting cheese you like)
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• burger sauce or a mix of ketchup and mayonnaise for dipping

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is fully browned. Season with salt and pepper. Drain any excess grease once cooked.
3. Prepare the Dough
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the refrigerated French bread dough into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches.
4. Add the Sauces
   Evenly spread the ketchup and mustard over the dough, leaving about a 1/2-inch border all around the edges.
5. Layer the Fillings
   Distribute the cooked ground beef evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the crumbled beef/turkey bacon (or smoked sausage) and chopped pickles on top.
6. Add the Cheese
   Arrange the cheese slices in a single layer over the fillings.
7. Roll and Seal
   Starting from one of the long sides, carefully roll up the dough into a log, keeping the filling inside. Pinch the seams and ends well to seal. Place the roll seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Brush and Bake
   Brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg, then sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the bread is puffed and golden brown.
9. Cool and Serve
   Let the bread rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with burger sauce or a simple ketchup–mayonnaise dip on the side.