Garbage Bread: A Cheesy, Meaty Stuffed Bread Recipe

There’s something truly magical about a warm, savory pastry fresh from the oven, and this Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe) perfectly captures that cozy feeling. Imagine a golden-brown crust, giving way to a riot of seasoned ground beef, gooey mozzarella and provolone, and zesty marinara, all wrapped up in a tender, homemade dough. It’s a hearty, satisfying treat that always brings a smile to faces, making it a perfect centerpiece for any casual gathering or a delightful family dinner.

I remember my grandmother, with flour dusting her apron, telling me that the best dishes are often born from what you have on hand. While “garbage” might sound a bit unconventional for a recipe title, this wonderful stuffed bread embodies that spirit of using simple ingredients to create something truly extraordinary. It’s a testament to how a little creativity in the kitchen can transform everyday components into a comforting masterpiece.

This easy-to-bake Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe) is incredibly family-friendly and wonderfully versatile, making it perfect for game nights, potlucks, or just a cozy evening in. My top tip for any baker is always to trust your senses – the aroma alone will guide you, telling you when your delicious creation is ready to be shared and enjoyed!

What You Need to Make This Recipe

Crafting this delectable Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe) involves a few simple, yet essential, ingredients. The star is undoubtedly the rich combination of ground beef and a generous blend of mozzarella and provolone cheeses, all nestled within a soft, homemade dough. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that come together beautifully. You’ll find the full list of ingredients and their exact measurements in the recipe card below.

How to Make Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe)

Making this delightful Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe) is a joy, starting with a tender yeast dough that’s easy to work with. You’ll then prepare a savory filling of seasoned ground beef, onions, and garlic, simmered in marinara. Finally, the magic happens as you layer the filling and cheeses onto the rolled-out dough, creating a magnificent stuffed bread ready for baking. It’s a truly rewarding process that leads to an incredibly satisfying result.

Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe)

This savory “Garbage Bread” is an irresistible, cheesy stuffed bread packed with seasoned ground beef, pepperoni, two types of cheese, and marinara, all wrapped in a soft, homemade dough. It’s a satisfying meal or a fantastic party appetizer!

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Prep Time 45 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 8 slices

Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Dough

• 1.25 cup warm water (105-115°F / 40-46°C)
• 2.25 tsp active dry yeast (one packet)
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 3 tbsp olive oil plus more for greasing
• 3.5 cup all-purpose flour plus more for dusting
• 1 tsp salt

For the Filling

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean recommended)
• 1 small yellow onion finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 0.5 cup marinara sauce or pizza sauce
• 1.5 tsp Italian seasoning
• 0.5 tsp salt or to taste
• 0.25 tsp black pepper or to taste
• 2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
• 0.5 cup sliced pepperoni

For the Egg Wash & Topping

• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp water
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 0.5 tsp garlic powder
• 0.5 tsp dried parsley

Equipment

• Large Mixing Bowl
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
• Large Skillet
• Rolling Pin
• Baking Sheet
• Parchment Paper
• Pastry Brush

Method

 

Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer bowl), combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
2. Add the olive oil, 3 cups of the all-purpose flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon or a dough hook on low speed until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining 1/2 cup of flour, a little at a time, until the dough comes together and is no longer sticky. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface (or with the dough hook) for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Lightly grease a clean large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning once to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 60-90 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling

1. While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess grease.
2. Add the diced yellow onion to the skillet with the beef and cook for 3-5 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

Assemble the Garbage Bread

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Once the dough has doubled, punch it down gently to release the air. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a large rectangle, approximately 12×18 inches (30×45 cm).
3. Spread the cooled ground beef mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a 1-inch border along all edges.
4. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and shredded provolone cheese over the meat mixture. Distribute the sliced pepperoni evenly on top of the cheese.
5. Starting from one of the long sides, carefully and tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam closed firmly to seal the filling inside. Tuck in the ends and pinch them to seal as well.
6. Carefully transfer the sealed log to the prepared baking sheet, seam-side down.

Bake and Serve

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the large egg and water to create the egg wash. Brush the entire surface of the dough log with the egg wash.
2. In another small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the egg-washed bread.
3. Using a sharp knife, make several shallow diagonal slits across the top of the log (about 1/4-inch deep). This helps steam escape and prevents cracking.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the Garbage Bread is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
5. Remove from the oven and let it cool on the baking sheet for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set, making it easier to cut.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling. You can substitute ground Italian sausage for ground beef, or use a mix of both. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.

Pro Tips for Making This Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe)

Creating the perfect Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe) is all about a little care and a few simple tricks I’ve learned over the years. This isn’t just about following steps; it’s about infusing love into every stage to get that truly comforting result.

My Secret Trick: I always make sure to drain the ground beef thoroughly after browning it. This prevents a soggy bottom and ensures your bread stays wonderfully crisp on the outside and perfectly stuffed on the inside. It makes all the difference for a fantastic Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe).

When working with the dough, remember that a lightly floured surface is your best friend. It helps prevent sticking without making the dough tough. If your kitchen is a bit cooler, a warm spot for rising (like a slightly warm oven turned off) can work wonders for achieving that perfect fluffy texture.

Don’t be shy with the cheese! While the recipe calls for specific amounts, I often add a little extra to the top before baking for an even more golden, bubbly crust. It’s a simple touch that adds so much to the visual appeal and the cheesy goodness of the Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe).

For an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful golden finish, brush the assembled bread with an egg wash before baking. It creates a gorgeous sheen and helps those grated Parmesan and garlic powder toppings stick beautifully, enhancing every single bite of your amazing stuffed bread.

Fun Variations for Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe)

One of the things I adore about home baking is the freedom to get creative, and this Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe) is wonderfully adaptable! Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own.

Spicy Kick

If you love a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ground beef filling or a few slices of jalapeño with the pepperoni. My friend, who adores spicy food, always asks for this fiery twist whenever I make this particular stuffed bread!

Veggie Delight

For a meatless option, swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach. You can also add some black olives or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for extra Mediterranean flair. This variation still holds all the cheesy, savory comfort that makes Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe) so beloved.

Breakfast Inspired

Imagine this bread with scrambled eggs, cooked breakfast sausage or bacon bits, and a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. It’s a phenomenal brunch item that truly redefines what this hearty stuffed bread can be. A drizzle of maple syrup on the side would make it extra special!

What to Serve With Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe)

This delightful Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe) is so satisfying on its own, but it truly shines when paired with a few simple accompaniments that complete the meal. My family always loves turning this into a cozy, comforting spread!

I often serve this hearty stuffed bread with a fresh, crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The bright, tangy flavors of the salad offer a wonderful contrast to the rich, savory Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe), making each bite feel perfectly balanced. It’s my go-to pairing!

Another wonderful option is a warm bowl of your favorite tomato soup. There’s something so nostalgic and comforting about dipping a slice of cheesy, meaty bread into a velvety soup, especially on a chilly evening.

For an extra touch, a small side of warm marinara sauce for dipping is always a hit. It allows everyone to customize their experience and adds another layer of zesty flavor to this already incredible stuffed bread.

How to Store Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe)

After all the love you put into baking this incredible Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe), you’ll want to ensure any leftovers stay just as delicious! Proper storage is key to preserving its wonderful flavors and textures.

Refrigeration Tips

Once your stuffed bread has cooled completely, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, I like to warm individual slices in the oven or a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. This helps maintain that lovely crispness!

Freezer Friendly

Yes, you can absolutely freeze Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe)! After it’s completely cooled, wrap individual slices or the whole loaf (if you have a large enough freezer bag) tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as directed for refrigerated leftovers.

Nutritional Benefits

While we often think of treats, this Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe) offers more than just comfort! With wholesome ingredients like lean ground beef for protein and flavorful cheeses providing calcium, it’s a satisfying and hearty meal. This substantial stuffed bread combines indulgence with simple, quality components, proving that delicious can also be nourishing.

FAQs

Faq 1

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time for Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe)?
Yes, you absolutely can! Prepare the dough up to the first rise, then punch it down, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out.

Faq 2

How do I prevent a soggy bottom with my stuffed bread?
Ensure your ground beef filling is thoroughly drained of any excess grease before adding it to the dough. Additionally, bake the Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe) on a preheated baking sheet or pizza stone to help crisp up the bottom.

Faq 3

Can I use different cheeses in this Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe)?
Certainly! While mozzarella and provolone are classic, feel free to experiment. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked Gouda would offer a delightful twist to this savory stuffed bread.

Faq 4

Is it possible to make this recipe smaller, perhaps as individual servings?
Yes! You can divide the dough into smaller portions before rolling, then fill and bake them as individual scrolls or mini loaves. This makes a perfect personal-sized Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe).

Conclusion

I hope this journey into making Garbage Bread (Cheesy Stuffed Bread Recipe) has inspired you to get into your kitchen and create something truly special. This recipe is a beautiful reminder that with a little time and a lot of love, you can transform simple ingredients into a comforting, memorable meal that brings smiles and warmth to everyone at your table. Embrace the joy of homemade goodness, and let this cheesy, meaty stuffed bread become a cherished part of your family’s culinary memories. Happy baking, sweet friends!