If you’ve never heard of garbage bread, get ready to fall in love with the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for using up leftovers and satisfying even the hungriest family member. This garbage bread recipe is packed with ground beef, cheese, and your favorite add-ins, all wrapped in pizza dough or crescent roll dough and baked until golden. It’s a family-friendly dinner idea that’s endlessly customizable and perfect for a quick weeknight meal or game day snack.
What Is Garbage Bread?
Despite its name, garbage bread is anything but trashy. It’s a stuffed bread recipe where you roll out dough and fill it with a delicious mix of meats, cheeses, sauces, and sometimes even vegetables—whatever you have in the fridge, really! Think of it as a cross between a stromboli and a hot pocket, but homemade and a whole lot tastier.
Garbage Bread Recipe Ingredients
This version is cheesy, meaty, and loaded with flavor, but you can swap in any leftovers or favorites. Here’s what you’ll need:
Base:
- 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough or crescent roll dough
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
Filling:
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/4 pound Italian sausage (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup pepperoni slices or diced ham
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce (plus more for dipping)
Topping:
- Extra shredded cheese (optional)
- Sesame seeds or dried parsley (optional)
Garbage Bread Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your own garbage bread at home:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cook the Meat
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (and Italian sausage, if using) until browned. Drain the excess fat. Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Unroll your pizza dough or crescent roll dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Gently stretch it into a large rectangle.
Step 4: Add the Fillings
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Layer the cooked meat, shredded mozzarella, cheddar cheese, and pepperoni slices.
Step 5: Roll and Seal
Carefully roll the dough (like a jelly roll), starting from one long side. Pinch the seams to seal and tuck the ends under.
Step 6: Bake
Brush the top with olive oil and sprinkle with optional cheese, parsley, or sesame seeds. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Let the bread rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Why You’ll Love This Garbage Bread Recipe
This is more than just a cheesy bread loaf—it’s a lifesaver when you need something hearty, fast, and delicious. You can:
- Customize with leftover veggies, chicken, or even taco meat
- Prep it ahead for easy meal prep
- Slice and freeze for a grab-and-go lunch option
It’s also a perfect addition to a party spread or potluck and will disappear fast!
Garbage Bread Recipe: Variations
Once you get the hang of it, try these fun twists:
- Buffalo Chicken Garbage Bread – Use shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and blue cheese.
- Veggie Lover’s – Load it with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers.
- Breakfast Style – Add scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheddar for a morning treat.
“Use a baking sheet and parchment paper—see this list of essential baking tools.”
Storage & Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven or air fryer for best results. You can also freeze slices individually and microwave them for a quick snack.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just cleaning out your fridge, this garbage bread recipe is your new go-to. It’s fun, flexible, and flat-out delicious. Try it once, and you’ll be making it on repeat.
Looking for another cheesy favorite? Try my Cottage Cheese Chips Recipe next!”