Don’t let the name fool you—Garbage Bread is a culinary treasure! This fun and versatile recipe from New York takes inspiration from classic stromboli and calzone but with a simpler, easy-to-make twist. Packed with cheesy, savory goodness and wrapped in a golden, crispy crust, it’s perfect for using up leftover ingredients while delighting the whole family. Ideal for game nights, casual dinners, or gatherings, this Garbage Bread delivers big flavor in every bite.
Garbage Bread
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
| Cheddar cheese | ½ cup |
| Diced onion | ½ cup |
| Minced garlic | 2 cloves |
| Bell peppers, sliced | ½ cup |
| Black olives, sliced (optional) | ½ cup |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
| Egg (for egg wash) | 1 |
How to Prepare Garbage Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready to bake once your bread is assembled.
Step 2: Sauté Onions
In a pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and cook until they’re translucent and fragrant.
Step 3: Cook Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the pan with onions. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Mix in sliced bell peppers and black olives if using. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 5: Prepare Dough
On a floured surface, roll out pizza dough into a 10×14-inch rectangle, leaving a small border along the edges for sealing.
Step 6: Assemble the Bread
Spread the cooked beef and vegetable mixture evenly over the dough, leaving space around the edges. Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top.
Step 7: Roll and Seal
Carefully roll the dough like a jelly roll, starting from the longest side. Pinch the ends together and place the roll seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 8: Vent and Egg Wash
Make a few small slits on top of the bread for steam to escape. Beat the egg and brush it over the top for a golden finish.
Step 9: Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and sounds hollow when tapped.
Step 10: Serve
Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy, savory delight!
Additional Serving Suggestions
Pair Garbage Bread with a crisp green salad tossed in vinaigrette or a comforting bowl of soup for a complete meal. For a kid-friendly option, serve with carrot and celery sticks and a side of ranch dressing.
Garbage Bread is more than a recipe—it’s a fun, flavorful way to bring everyone together at the table while making the most of your ingredients. Give it a try and watch it become a new family favorite!
