Garbage Bread is a delightful, comforting dish that combines savory flavors into a perfectly rolled, cheesy, meaty loaf. Despite its quirky name, this recipe is anything but “garbage” — it’s a beloved family favorite and the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a party appetizer, or a hearty snack, Garbage Bread has you covered.
This recipe brings together ground beef, crispy bacon, and gooey Velveeta cheese, all seasoned to perfection and wrapped in flaky pizza dough. It’s simple to prepare, endlessly customizable, and sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special.
Why We Love This Recipe ❤️
- Effortless to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Cheesy Goodness: The combination of Velveeta and shredded cheddar cheese creates a gooey, melty filling that’s utterly irresistible.
- Savory Flavor Bomb: The seasoned ground beef, crispy bacon, and Worcestershire sauce deliver a bold, mouthwatering flavor in every bite.
- Customizable: Garbage Bread is like a blank canvas — you can add veggies, switch up the cheeses, or even use different meats to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Sharing: Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a game day, or feeding a hungry family, this dish is always a hit and is easy to serve as slices or bite-sized pieces.
- Kid-Approved: With its cheesy, savory filling wrapped in soft pizza dough, it’s a recipe that even picky eaters will love.
- Great for Leftovers: It reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it the next day for lunch or dinner, saving you time and effort.
This recipe isn’t just food — it’s comfort, flavor, and fun rolled into one irresistible dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup cooked chopped bacon
- 1 Tbsp McCormick Grill Mates Hamburger seasoning
- 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 8 oz Velveeta, cubed
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (13.8 oz) can pizza dough
How to Make Garbage Bread
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
- Season the Meat: Add the McCormick Grill Mates Hamburger seasoning and Worcestershire sauce to the cooked beef. Stir well to combine.
- Incorporate the Bacon: Stir in the cooked chopped bacon, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
- Melt the Velveeta: Add the cubed Velveeta to the skillet. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and coats the meat mixture.
- Add Cheddar Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 2: Assemble the Bread
- Prepare the Dough: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
- Add the Filling: Spread the cheesy meat mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Roll the Dough: Starting at one of the long edges, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams to seal.
Step 3: Bake
- Transfer to a Baking Sheet: Place the rolled dough seam-side down on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the Garbage Bread to cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Success Tips ✅
- Even Filling Distribution: Spread the filling evenly across the dough to ensure each slice is packed with flavor.
- Seal Tightly: Make sure the edges of the dough are sealed properly to prevent the filling from oozing out during baking.
- Use Fresh Dough: If using store-bought pizza dough, check the expiration date to ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
- Customization: Add diced vegetables like onions, peppers, or mushrooms to the filling for added texture and flavor.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftover Garbage Bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Freezer: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Notes
- Alternative Cheeses: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack for a twist on the classic recipe.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pizza dough to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Nutrition
Calories: 320
- Protein: 16g
- Fat: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or sausage work just as well and can bring a unique flavor to the dish.
How do I keep the dough from sticking?
Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking when rolling out the pizza dough.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the bread, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake as directed when ready.
What dipping sauces go well with Garbage Bread?
Serve it with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli for dipping.
Can I add vegetables?
Definitely! Sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach make excellent additions to the filling.
Conclusion
Garbage Bread is a show-stopping recipe that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Its combination of melty cheese, savory meat, and flaky dough makes it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty dinner or a sharable appetizer, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Give this recipe a try, and watch it disappear from the plate in no time!