Welcome to the irresistible world of Garbage Bread Extravaganza, a showstopping, flavor-packed baked roll that brings all your favorite pizza and sandwich fixings together into one crave-worthy loaf! Imagine bubbling cheeses, savory meats, tender veggies, and zesty marinara all spiraled in soft, golden pizza dough—each slice is a party on your plate. This dish is more than just a clever way to use up leftovers; it’s a festive, crowd-pleasing centerpiece that transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary. Whether served at game day gatherings, family dinners, or late-night snack attacks, Garbage Bread Extravaganza always delivers excitement and comfort in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about the simple goodness behind Garbage Bread Extravaganza. Every ingredient brings something special—whether it’s gooey meltiness, bold flavor, or satisfying texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why it will make your bread unforgettable:
- Refrigerated pizza dough: The backbone of your bread—soft, stretchy, and easy to work with for that perfect spiraled bite.
- Ground beef: Adds hearty, classic flavor and substance; always brown thoroughly for the best taste and texture.
- Italian sausage: Brings in savory, herby complexity and a hit of spice to balance the richness.
- Onion: Finely chopped so every slice gets a mild, sweet-savory kick.
- Green bell pepper: Adds crunch, color and a subtle tangy sweetness that brightens the filling.
- Pepperoni: For extra zesty flavor and that unmistakable pizzeria nostalgia—don’t skimp!
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Oozy, stretchy goodness that ties everything together.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into a mild sharpness and gives your Garbage Bread Extravaganza a pretty golden hue.
- Marinara sauce: Sweet and zesty, it moistens the layers and delivers that signature pizza flavor.
- Olive oil: For sautéing and brushing—brings a hint of richness and helps the bread bake up beautifully.
- Italian seasoning: Boosts aroma and is the flavor bridge between the meat and veggies.
- Garlic powder: A sprinkle adds warmth and depth—think of it as pizza’s secret weapon.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little fire, it sharpens the flavors just right!
- Egg (beaten, for egg wash): Gives your bread its glorious golden color and a bit of sheen.
How to Make Garbage Bread Extravaganza
Step 1: Brown the Meats
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat, then toss in the ground beef and Italian sausage. Break up the meat as it cooks, letting it turn beautifully browned and crispy in spots. Drain off any excess fat—it’s key for a delicious, non-greasy filling. The aroma alone at this stage will have everyone peeking into the kitchen!
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
With the meats browned, add the finely chopped onion, diced green bell pepper, and Italian seasoning straight into the skillet. Give it a stir and cook for 3-4 minutes, just until the veggies begin to soften and the flavors meld together. The Italian seasoning helps singe everything together with a cozy, herby fragrance.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a big rectangle—about the size of a baking sheet. This forms the canvas for your Garbage Bread Extravaganza, so try to make it as even as possible for smooth rolling later. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly shaped; rustic is beautiful!
Step 4: Layer the Fillings
Spread a generous layer of marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border all the way around. Now layer on the cooked meat mixture, sliced pepperoni, and both cheeses in even stripes. This is your masterpiece in the making—make sure the filling is distributed for every bite to be just right!
Step 5: Season and Roll
Sprinkle garlic powder and optional red pepper flakes over the entire filling. Now, working from the long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log, pinching the seams at the end to seal. This creates the famous swirl effect of the Garbage Bread Extravaganza, where every slice is a surprise. Carefully transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet, seam side down.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Brush the top of your rolled loaf with beaten egg—it’s the secret to a beautifully glossy, bakery-style crust. Pop it in your preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 30–35 minutes. You’re looking for a deep, golden brown exterior and a fragrant, bubbling center. Once done, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thick, satisfying pieces.
How to Serve Garbage Bread Extravaganza
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley brings brightness and color, making each slice look gourmet. For a pretty finish, shave a little extra parmesan over the top. Don’t forget more marinara sauce on the side for dipping—it truly takes your Garbage Bread Extravaganza from delicious to legendary.
Side Dishes
Since Garbage Bread Extravaganza is loaded with hearty fillings, pair it with crisp salads, roasted vegetables, or a tangy slaw to balance the richness. A simple Caesar salad or garlic green beans makes it a complete, satisfying meal without overshadowing the star of the show.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice thick pieces and fan them out on a wooden board, or stack them artfully on a platter with toothpicks for an appetizer spread. For parties, try cutting the Garbage Bread Extravaganza into bite-sized “pinwheels.” A drizzle of garlic butter over the top right after baking is sure to impress!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Luckily, Garbage Bread Extravaganza stores like a dream. Simply let leftovers cool, then wrap them snugly in foil or airtight containers and refrigerate. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next-day lunch or snack even better.
Freezing
Want to keep some for emergency cravings? Once cooled, wrap the unsliced loaf (or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Pop them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a 350°F oven, uncovered, for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This keeps the crust crisp and the cheese perfectly melty—far better than the microwave. For individual portions, a toaster oven works wonderfully too.
FAQs
Can I customize the fillings in Garbage Bread Extravaganza?
Absolutely! The beauty of Garbage Bread Extravaganza is its flexibility. Swap in mushrooms, olives, or jalapeños, or use up leftover cooked chicken or vegetables from your fridge. Just make sure not to overfill, so the loaf rolls and bakes evenly.
Is there a vegetarian option?
Yes! Skip the meats and double up on roasted veggies, spinach, or even some cooked lentils for protein. Using a plant-based cheese and pizza dough will make Garbage Bread Extravaganza vegetarian-friendly and just as satisfying.
How can I keep the bread from getting soggy?
Be careful not to overload your dough with sauce, and always cook your filling ingredients to remove excess moisture before rolling them up. Start with a thin, even layer of marinara, and keep that 1-inch border clear for a perfect seal.
Can I make Garbage Bread Extravaganza ahead of time?
Definitely! Assemble the loaf up to the baking step and refrigerate (covered) for several hours or overnight. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature while the oven preheats, then bake as directed for fresh-out-of-the-oven goodness.
What’s the best way to slice Garbage Bread Extravaganza?
A sharp, serrated knife works best for slicing through the crust without squishing the filling. Let the bread cool for about 5 minutes after baking to help the cheese set slightly—this keeps each swirl intact and gorgeous!
Final Thoughts
If you love warm, gooey, flavor-packed bites that bring people together, you’ll fall head over heels for Garbage Bread Extravaganza. This recipe is pure fun and guaranteed to put smiles on everyone’s faces. Grab your favorite fillings and let’s get baking—the next family classic is just a roll away!
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Garbage Bread Extravaganza Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Garbage Bread Extravaganza is a delicious and versatile stuffed bread that’s perfect for parties or as a main course. Packed with savory meats, cheeses, and seasonings, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 lb refrigerated pizza dough
Filling:
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the meat: In a skillet, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned. Add onion, bell pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Prepare the dough: Roll out the pizza dough, spread marinara sauce, layer with meat mixture, pepperoni, cheeses, and seasonings.
- Roll and bake: Roll the dough into a log, seal the seam, place on a baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and bake for 30–35 minutes.
- Serve: Allow to cool, slice, and serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- This recipe is customizable with additional ingredients like olives, mushrooms, or jalapeños.
- For a lighter version, consider using turkey sausage or omitting the pepperoni.
- Garbage bread is best enjoyed warm and can be reheated in the oven.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 920 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
