This Garbage Bread transforms classic cheeseburger ingredients into a fun rolled bread. Using refrigerated French bread dough as the base, it's filled with seasoned ground beef, bacon, pickles, and American cheese. The dough is brushed with egg and topped with sesame seeds to give it that burger bun feel. While the name might be quirky, the result is a creative twist on a cheeseburger that's perfect for dinner, parties, or game day. Served with Thousand Island dressing for dipping, it's a crowd-pleasing dish that's surprisingly easy to make.
The humble Garbage Bread transforms everyday ingredients into an irresistible stuffed loaf filled with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and classic burger toppings. This versatile recipe welcomes creativity while delivering consistent comfort food satisfaction that's perfect for casual dinners, game day snacks, or easy entertaining.
In my kitchen, this recipe has become a weekly staple for using up odds and ends. The secret lies in properly seasoning each component and rolling the dough tightly for the perfect spiral effect.
Essential Ingredients
French Bread Dough: Fresh dough provides best texture
Ground Beef: 80/20 blend for optimal flavor
American Cheese: Melts perfectly for that classic taste
Pickles: Adds tangy crunch and authentic burger flavor
Bacon: Provides smoky depth and extra richness
Quality bacon and fresh pickles make a noticeable difference in the final flavor profile.
Store cooled bread in airtight container up to 3 days refrigerated. Slice before freezing for easy portions. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator. Reheat in oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or until heated through. For best results, wrap in foil while reheating to prevent drying.
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare filling day before. Cool completely before storing. Roll and assemble bread up to 12 hours ahead, wrap tightly in plastic, refrigerate. Bring to room temperature 30 minutes before baking. For party prep, make several variations using different fillings. Label clearly before freezing.
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Chef's Essential Tips
Grate cheese fresh for better melting
Chop toppings uniformly for even distribution
Season each component well
Let rest 10 minutes before slicing
Serving Suggestions
Serve with variety of dipping sauces - ranch, marinara, honey mustard. Pair with fresh green salad or coleslaw for contrast. For parties, slice into pinwheels and arrange on platter with different sauces. Makes excellent game day food with pickle spears and extra cheese sauce.
Creative Variations
Experiment with different flavor profiles: Italian with pepperoni and mozzarella, Mexican with taco meat and pepper jack, Greek with lamb and feta. Create breakfast version using scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage. Vegetarian options work well with roasted vegetables and multiple cheeses. The possibilities are endless - let your creativity guide you.
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Final Thoughts
Garbage Bread represents creative comfort food at its finest. Whether following the classic recipe or innovating with leftovers, success lies in proper technique and quality ingredients. This versatile dish proves that simple ingredients, thoughtfully combined, create something greater than their parts.
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Why is it called Garbage Bread?
The name comes from stuffing various burger ingredients into bread - but it's definitely delicious!
→ Can I use different cheese?
Yes, though American cheese melts particularly well in this recipe.
→ Can I add other toppings?
You can customize with your favorite burger toppings like mushrooms or jalapeños.
→ Can I make this ahead?
Best served fresh and warm, but can be reheated gently.
→ Why brush with egg?
The egg wash helps achieve a golden brown crust and gives a shiny finish.
Cheeseburger Garbage Bread
A fun stuffed bread roll filled with all your favorite hamburger ingredients - like a cheeseburger in bread form.
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