Introduction:

Garbage Bread is a fun, versatile, and delicious meal that combines the flavors of pizza into a rollable, sliceable bread format. It’s perfect for family dinners, game nights, or casual get-togethers. This recipe includes a mix of ingredients like Italian sausage, pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, vegetables, and seasonings wrapped in pizza dough, making it a flavorful option that can be customized to your liking.

Overview of the Recipe:

Garbage Bread is essentially a stuffed bread roll packed with various fillings that can be adjusted according to your taste preferences. In this version, we use Italian sausage, pepperoni, green bell peppers, onions, olives, and mushrooms to add a savory mix of flavors. The dough is rolled up and baked until golden brown, creating a perfect combination of crunchy bread on the outside and a gooey, cheesy filling on the inside.

History and Origin:

The exact origin of Garbage Bread is not well-documented, but it likely stems from the tradition of using leftover ingredients to create a quick, satisfying meal. Its name suggests a playful reference to how it incorporates various ingredients, often leftovers or items that need to be used up, much like a “garbage” salad. This bread has gained popularity in home kitchens for its simplicity, adaptability, and satisfying taste. It can also be linked to the stromboli or calzone, both of which are stuffed pizza dough creations.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled Italian sausage (can substitute with turkey sausage)
• 1/2 cup chopped pepperoni (substitute with turkey pepperoni)
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives
• 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil or non-stick spray.
2. Roll Out the Dough:
   • On a clean, lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, roughly 12×16 inches. This size will give you enough space to pack all your ingredients while keeping the dough easy to roll.
3. Layer the Cheese:
   • Start by evenly sprinkling the mozzarella cheese over the surface of the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. Follow this by spreading the Parmesan cheese in an even layer.
4. Add the Meat and Vegetables:
   • Evenly scatter the cooked and crumbled Italian sausage and chopped pepperoni across the cheese layer. Ensure the sausage and pepperoni are spread out to get a bite of meat in every slice.
   • Next, add the chopped green bell pepper, onion, black olives, and mushrooms. Distribute these vegetables evenly for balanced flavors throughout the bread.
5. Season the Filling:
   • Sprinkle the Italian seasoning and garlic powder over the top of the fillings. These herbs and spices add a punch of flavor to the bread.
6. Roll the Dough:
   • Starting from one of the long edges of the rectangle, carefully roll up the dough into a tight log. As you roll, keep the fillings from spilling out. Pinch the seams and edges tightly to seal the roll. You want the bread to hold together during baking.
7. Prepare for Baking:
   • Place the rolled dough seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. This helps to keep the roll intact as it bakes.
   • Brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg, which will give it a nice golden-brown finish. Drizzle the dough with olive oil for added crispiness and flavor.
8. Bake:
   • Bake the Garbage Bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through. The bread should feel firm and the crust should have a deep, golden color.
9. Rest and Slice:
   • Once out of the oven, let the bread rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the fillings set and makes it easier to slice.
   • Use a sharp knife to cut the bread into slices, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick, and serve immediately.

Serving:

This Garbage Bread serves 4 to 6 people, making it a great option for a family meal or party appetizer. Serve with a side of marinara or ranch dipping sauce for extra flavor.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions:

• Dips: Marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or ranch dressing complement the bread’s rich flavors perfectly.
• Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a more balanced meal. You could also pair it with potato wedges or garlic breadsticks for a complete game-night spread.
• Beverages: A sparkling fruit drink, lemonade, or iced tea would be a refreshing accompaniment to balance the savory, cheesy nature of the bread.

Variations of the Recipe:

Garbage Bread is highly customizable. You can switch out ingredients to suit your preferences or what’s available in your kitchen. Here are a few popular variations:

1. Meat Lover’s Version: Increase the amount of Italian sausage and pepperoni, or add cooked ground beef or chicken ham to make the bread extra meaty.
2. Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat entirely and load up on veggies. Consider adding spinach, roasted red peppers, or artichoke hearts for added flavor and texture.
3. Spicy Version: For a spicier kick, add sliced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the filling. You could also use spicy sausage or pepperoni for an extra zing.
4. Cheesy Delight: If you’re a cheese lover, consider adding extra varieties of cheese like cheddar, provolone, or even cream cheese to create a rich, gooey filling.

Health Benefits:

Though Garbage Bread is a savory and indulgent dish, you can make it a bit healthier by tweaking the ingredients:

• Use whole wheat pizza dough for added fiber and nutrients compared to white dough.
• Swap regular sausage for turkey sausage or opt for leaner meats to reduce the overall fat content.
• Increase the vegetable ratio and reduce the meat for a lighter version. Adding nutrient-dense veggies like spinach, zucchini, and tomatoes not only cuts calories but boosts vitamins and minerals.

FAQs:

1. Can I prepare Garbage Bread ahead of time?

• Yes! You can assemble the bread and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

2. Can I freeze Garbage Bread?

• Absolutely. After assembling, freeze the bread unbaked. Once frozen, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen, increasing the cooking time by 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can freeze baked slices and reheat them in the oven or microwave.

3. How do I store leftovers?

• Leftover Garbage Bread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to crisp up the bread, or microwave for a softer texture.

4. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

• Yes! Store-bought pizza dough works perfectly well for this recipe, making it even quicker to prepare. If you prefer to make your own dough, feel free to use your favorite recipe.

5. What if I don’t have all the ingredients?

• No worries! This recipe is extremely flexible. You can substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand. Don’t have pepperoni? Use chicken ham or more vegetables. Missing mushrooms? Swap them with something else like spinach or roasted red peppers.

Conclusion:

Garbage Bread is a delicious and fun way to combine the best flavors of pizza into a baked roll that’s easy to slice and serve. With its customizable filling options, you can tailor it to suit any preference, whether you’re a meat lover or vegetarian. It’s the perfect dish for casual gatherings or a quick family dinner. Try this recipe today and enjoy the savory, cheesy, and crispy goodness of homemade Garbage Bread!