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#### **Instructions:**
**Step 1: Prepare the Dough**
If using store-bought dough, roll it out onto a lightly floured surface into a rectangle shape. The dough should be about 1/4-inch thick. If you’re using homemade dough, roll it out the same way. You want to ensure the dough is big enough to fold over the fillings without breaking.
**Step 2: Prepare the Fillings**
While the dough is resting, prepare your fillings. Start by cooking any meats you are using, and sauté vegetables like onions and peppers until they are soft and slightly caramelized. You can mix and match the fillings depending on what you have available. If you’re using sauce, make sure to spread it thinly so the bread doesn’t become soggy.
**Step 3: Assemble the Garbage Bread**
Once the dough is rolled out, start layering your ingredients in the center, leaving about 2 inches on all sides to allow for folding. Begin with a layer of cheese, then add your meat and vegetables. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. If you’re adding sauce, drizzle it on top.
**Step 4: Fold the Dough**
Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling to form a sealed loaf. You can pinch the edges to ensure there are no gaps. If you want to create a more rustic appearance, you can leave the ends open and allow some of the filling to peek through.
**Step 5: Bake the Garbage Bread**
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the dough with the egg wash for a golden, shiny finish. Place the bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and crispy on top.
**Step 6: Serve and Enjoy**
Allow the garbage bread to cool slightly before slicing. Serve it with marinara sauce for dipping, or enjoy it on its own. The bread can be cut into slices like a loaf or served as individual portions.
### **Garbage Bread Variations**
While the classic garbage bread is delicious as is, it’s also a highly customizable dish. Here are some variations you can try:
#### **1. Veggie Garbage Bread**
For a vegetarian take, load up the bread with a variety of roasted or sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, olives, and artichokes. You can also add ricotta or goat cheese for a richer, creamier texture.
#### **2. Breakfast Garbage Bread**
For a breakfast version, scramble some eggs and mix them with cooked sausage, bacon, cheese, and hash browns. This variation is great for a brunch or as a morning meal.
#### **3. Spicy Garbage Bread**
If you love heat, add spicy ingredients like jalapeños, hot sausage, pepper jack cheese, or a drizzle of sriracha sauce. You can even sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before baking to amp up the spice level.
#### **4. BBQ Garbage Bread**
For a smoky twist, swap out marinara sauce for barbecue sauce and use shredded rotisserie chicken, bacon, and cheddar cheese as the filling. This gives the bread a tangy, sweet, and savory flavor that’s hard to resist.
#### **5. Pizza Garbage Bread**
To turn your garbage bread into a pizza-inspired dish, stuff it with your favorite pizza toppings—like pepperoni, mushrooms, olives, and mozzarella cheese—and serve it with marinara sauce for dipping.
### **Tips for Perfect Garbage Bread**
1. **Don’t Overfill**: While it’s tempting to stuff the bread with a lot of ingredients, too much filling can cause the dough to break or make the bread soggy. Be sure to leave enough space for the dough to fold over and form a proper seal.
2. **Pre-cook Vegetables**: If you’re using vegetables, make sure to sauté or roast them first. Raw veggies will release moisture during baking, which could make the bread soggy.
3. **Use a Pizza Stone**: If you have a pizza stone, use it to bake the bread. It will help ensure an even bake and crisp up the bottom of the dough.
4. **Experiment with Flavors**: Don’t be afraid to experiment with new fillings. Some creative ideas include adding caramelized onions, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a touch of pesto for extra flavor.
5. **Serve with Dips**: Garbage bread pairs wonderfully with various dips, such as marinara, ranch dressing, or a creamy garlic dip.
### **Conclusion**
Garbage bread is an incredibly satisfying and customizable meal that allows you to be as creative as you want with your fillings. Whether you stick to a traditional meat-and-cheese version or create something unique, the result will be a delicious, hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. From its humble origins as a way to use up leftovers to its current status as a beloved comfort food, garbage bread is here to stay. So the next time you’re craving a filling meal that’s both easy to make and versatile, give garbage bread a try!
