Garbage Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garbage Bread is the ultimate comfort food—like a loaded sandwich rolled into a warm, golden loaf. Filled with meats, cheeses, and any toppings you have on hand, it’s a fun and flavorful way to use up leftovers. Perfect for game day, busy weeknights, or party snacks, this customizable recipe is easy to make and totally irresistible.

ingredients

this Recipe

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

pizza dough or crescent roll dough
ground beef, sausage, or deli meats (cooked and seasoned)
shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, provolone)
onion (diced)
bell pepper (optional)
garlic powder
Italian seasoning
salt
black pepper
egg (for egg wash)
optional dips: marinara, ranch, mustard

directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Roll out dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface.

Spread cooked meat evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides.

Top with shredded cheese, onions, peppers, and seasonings.

Carefully roll up the dough jelly-roll style, tucking in the ends to seal.

Place seam-side down on the baking sheet and brush with beaten egg.

Cut a few small slits on top to vent.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Let cool slightly, then slice and serve with dipping sauces.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Cooling time: 5 minutes
Total time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

Use taco meat and pepper jack cheese for a Tex-Mex twist.
Fill with ham, Swiss, and pickles for a Cubano-style loaf.
Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or olives for extra flavor.
Make it vegetarian with beans, cheese, and roasted veggies.
Use crescent roll dough for a flakier, buttery crust.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Reheat slices in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
Freeze unbaked rolls for up to 1 month; bake straight from frozen, adding extra time.

FAQs

Why is it called “Garbage Bread”?
Because you can throw in “everything but the kitchen sink”—it’s all about using what you have.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 1 day in advance, then bake when ready.

What dough works best?
Pizza dough is sturdy and chewy; crescent dough is buttery and flaky.

Can I serve it cold?
It’s best warm, but still tasty at room temp or chilled.

Can I add sauce inside?
Yes, just don’t overdo it or the dough may get soggy.

Is this freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze baked or unbaked loaves for easy meals later.

Do I need to let the dough rise?
If using fresh dough, let it rise per package or recipe instructions before rolling.

Can I make mini versions?
Yes, divide dough and make individual rolls for grab-and-go snacks.

What cheese melts best?
Mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone are great options.

Is it kid-friendly?
Absolutely—customize fillings to suit picky eaters.

Conclusion

Garbage Bread is a fun, easy, and endlessly customizable meal that turns your favorite ingredients into one delicious loaf. Whether you’re cleaning out the fridge or planning a casual dinner, this cheesy, savory roll is guaranteed to please. Make it once, and you’ll be dreaming up new combinations every week.

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