If you’ve ever wished you could have all the flavors of a juicy cheeseburger wrapped up in one warm, golden loaf of bread, Garbage Bread is the answer. Don’t let the name fool you—this recipe is anything but trash. It’s a cheesy, meaty, and flavor-packed creation that’s perfect for family dinners, game nights, or casual gatherings with friends. With layers of beef, bacon, pickles, cheese, and tangy condiments baked inside soft bread, every slice is a bite of comfort food heaven.
- Ingredients
1 lb ground beef, cooked and crumbled
½ cup diced onion
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp pepper
11 oz tube Pillsbury refrigerated French bread dough
⅓ cup ketchup
3 tbsp mustard
6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (or 1 package bacon pieces)
2 dill pickle spears, chopped
8 slices American cheese
1 large egg, beaten
1 tbsp sesame seeds
Thousand Island dressing (for serving)
- Sub-Recipes (Extra Preparations)
Thousand Island Dressing (Optional, if homemade)
If you don’t want to use store-bought dressing, you can easily whip up your own version at home.
Ingredients for Homemade Thousand Island:
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
1 tsp vinegar
¼ tsp salt
⅛ tsp black pepper
Preparation:
- Mix all ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.
- Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
This quick homemade dressing will take your Garbage Bread to the next level with its creamy, tangy flavor.
- Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Season with salt and pepper. Drain any excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the French bread dough into a rectangle, about 12×8 inches. This step gives you the base for all the delicious fillings.
Step 3: Add the Fillings
Spread ketchup and mustard evenly over the surface of the dough. Layer the beef and onion mixture, crumbled bacon, chopped dill pickles, and American cheese slices. Make sure to leave about 1 inch of border around the edges so it seals properly when rolled.
Step 4: Roll and Seal
Starting from one of the long sides, roll the dough tightly into a log shape, just like you would for cinnamon rolls. Pinch the seam and ends tightly to seal in the fillings. This ensures none of the cheesy goodness leaks out during baking.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake
Transfer the rolled dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the entire surface with the beaten egg, then sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for that classic burger bun finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Remove from the oven and let the bread rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set and makes cutting easier.
- Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4–6
- Serving Suggestions
Garbage Bread is best served warm, sliced into thick rounds that showcase all the delicious layers inside. Place the slices on a platter and offer a bowl of Thousand Island dressing for dipping.
You can serve this bread as the main dish with a simple green salad on the side, or as a party appetizer that guests can grab and enjoy. For an extra indulgent touch, pair it with crispy fries or onion rings to complete the “cheeseburger in bread” experience.
- FAQ (Questions & Answers)
Q1: Can I make Garbage Bread ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add 5 extra minutes to the baking time.
Q2: Can I freeze Garbage Bread?
Absolutely. Bake it first, then let it cool completely. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Q3: Can I use different fillings?
Definitely. Swap the ground beef for shredded chicken, turkey, or even Italian sausage. You can also use different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella.
Q4: What if I don’t have Pillsbury French bread dough?
Pizza dough or crescent roll dough also work well. Just make sure to roll them into a rectangle and adjust baking time as needed.
Q5: How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?
Allow the cooked beef mixture to cool slightly and drain all excess fat before adding it to the dough. This prevents sogginess and ensures a crisp crust.
- Conclusion
Garbage Bread might have a quirky name, but it’s one of the most satisfying comfort food recipes you’ll ever make. With layers of juicy beef, crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and tangy pickles all wrapped in golden bread, it delivers the ultimate cheeseburger experience in every slice. Whether you serve it as a main dish for family dinner or as a crowd-pleasing party snack, this recipe will always be a hit. Try it once, and it will become a regular in your kitchen.
