Every now and then, it’s refreshing to shake up the dinner routine with something unexpected and downright fun. That’s where Garbage Bread comes in, a delightful twist on the traditional stromboli or calzone, but with a casual, no-fuss vibe. This playful dish hails from the vibrant streets of New York, offering a creative way to bundle your favorite pizza toppings into a single, scrumptious roll. Whether you’re gathering around the TV for a family movie night, hosting a game night with friends, or simply using up those leftovers in the fridge, Garbage Bread is your go-to for a versatile and satisfying meal.
Pair this hearty creation with a crisp salad or dive into it with some fresh veggie sticks and dip for the kids. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, so roll up your sleeves and get ready for some hands-on delight!
Garbage Bread Recipe
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 1 thin crust pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions:
Preheat and Prep:
Warm up your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will get your kitchen nice and toasty, setting the stage for what’s to come.
Cook the Fillings:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and sauté until they begin to soften.
Toss in the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spoon. Cook until browned, then season with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
Add bell peppers and black olives, sprinkling in the Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and cook for a few more minutes until the flavors meld.
Prepare the Dough:
On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a 10×14 inch rectangle. Remember, a little imperfection adds character!
Evenly spread the beef and veggie mixture over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Shower the top with both types of cheese.
Roll and Seal:
Roll up the dough starting from the long side, jelly-roll style. Pinch the ends closed and place seam side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Cut a few slits on top to let steam escape, giving your bread “room to breathe.”
Bake:
Whisk the egg and brush it over the bread to achieve that irresistible golden crust.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Serve:
Let the Garbage Bread cool slightly before slicing. Serve it warm and watch as it disappears before your eyes!
Variations & Tips:
Meat Alternatives: Swap ground beef with ground turkey, sausage, or a plant-based substitute.
Veggie Variations: Throw in whatever vegetables you have on hand. Mushrooms and spinach make great additions.
Keep It Simple: For picky eaters, a simple cheese and meat filling will never fail to please.
Make-Ahead: Assemble the Garbage Bread ahead of time, refrigerate, and just bring it to room temperature before baking.
This Garbage Bread is not just a meal, but a moment of joy that brings everyone together. Enjoy crafting it, sharing it, and most importantly, devouring it!