Cooking method
Here’s how to make it:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully cut the bread lengthwise and scoop out a bit of the insides to create space for the filling.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheese, cooked meats, vegetables, pizza sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
- Generously fill the hollowed-out bread with the prepared mixture. Don’t be shy!
- Brush the outside of the bread with melted butter for that enticing golden finish.
- Wrap the filled loaf in aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes.
- After the initial bake, unwrap the bread and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the top is beautifully golden brown.
- Allow it to cool slightly, then slice and serve warm.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving garbage bread, you have plenty of options! Cut it into thick slices for a more rustic presentation, or serve with extra pizza sauce for dipping. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad for a lighter meal or some crispy garlic bread for that extra indulgence. You could also offer a selection of dips, like ranch or marinara, to keep it exciting.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store your leftover garbage bread, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze it as well! Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn, and it will be good for up to two months.
When reheating, either place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or use a microwave for quick warming.
Helpful cooking tips
- Use day-old bread: For the best texture, opt for a loaf that’s a bit stale; it holds up better to the filling.
- Mix and match: Get creative with your fillings! Experiment with different meats, cheeses, and veggies based on what you have.
- Don’t rush the bake: Baking it wrapped in foil first helps the flavors meld and keeps the bread from getting too hard. Unwrapping it at the end lets it crisp up!
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to try:
- Breakfast Garbage Bread: Swap out the pizza sauce for scrambled eggs and include breakfast meats like bacon or ham.
- Veggie Delight: Keep it meat-free and load it up with your favorite vegetables, like spinach, artichokes, and zucchini, putting a delicious vegetarian spin on the dish.
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling for an exciting spicy version.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare?
Making garbage bread takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time, along with baking time.
Can I use gluten-free bread?
Absolutely! Just ensure that your bread and other ingredients are certified gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.
What should I do if it’s too greasy?
If the bread appears greasy after baking, you might have used too much butter or fatty meats. You can reduce those amounts or switch to leaner meats.
Now that you’re equipped with all the tips, tricks, and details needed, you can confidently make this delicious garbage bread. It’s a fun and satisfying dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
