Garbage Bread is a cheesy, savory, and customizable stuffed bread that combines all your favorite pizza toppings into one glorious dish. Whether you’re making it for a dinner, snack, or party appetizer, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy every craving. The beauty of Garbage Bread is its versatility – you can fill it with whatever ingredients you love most. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your own delicious Garbage Bread at home.
Ingredients:
• 1 package (16 oz) pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 lb cooked sausage, crumbled (feel free to use any cooked sausage you like)
• 1/2 cup pepperoni slices, chopped
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped (green, red, or a mix for extra color)
• 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing the dough)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional, for an herbaceous touch)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
1. Cook the sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until it’s browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat and set it aside to cool slightly.
2. Chop the veggies: While the sausage cooks, chop the bell pepper and red onion into small, bite-sized pieces.
3. Prepare the pepperoni: Slice the pepperoni into small strips or pieces.
4. Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, chopped pepperoni, bell pepper, red onion, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until evenly distributed.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, about 12 x 8 inches.
3. Add the filling: Spoon the filling mixture onto the center of the dough, spreading it out evenly, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the dough: Carefully fold the long edges of the dough over the filling, then fold in the short edges to seal everything inside. You should have a log or “bread” shape now.
Step 3: Bake the Garbage Bread
1. Brush with olive oil: Transfer the filled dough log to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top of the bread with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder and Italian seasoning, if desired.
2. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and crispy on the outside.
3. Cool slightly: Once the Garbage Bread is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 4: Serve
1. Slice and enjoy: Slice the Garbage Bread into 1-inch thick pieces and serve warm. It’s perfect as a snack, dinner, or party appetizer!
Customization Ideas:
• Meat options: Add or substitute cooked bacon, ground beef, or turkey sausage for the sausage and pepperoni.
• Veggie options: Throw in mushrooms, spinach, olives, or zucchini for a veggie-packed filling.
• Dipping sauces: Serve with marinara sauce, ranch, or garlic butter for dipping.
Garbage Bread is the perfect recipe when you’re craving something cheesy, savory, and totally customizable. Each bite is loaded with flavor, and the combination of crispy bread and melted cheese is irresistible. Enjoy!
Tips for Success:
• Use fresh dough: For the best texture, try using fresh pizza dough instead of pre-made dough for a fluffier, airier result.
• Don’t overstuff: Be careful not to overstuff the bread; it should be packed, but not bursting at the seams. Too much filling can cause it to spill out during baking.
• Make ahead: You can assemble the Garbage Bread ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake it just before serving!