This cheesy, meaty bread is the ultimate comfort food! A golden loaf stuffed with seasoned beef, crispy bacon, tangy pickles, and gooey cheese is wrapped in buttery French bread dough and baked to perfection. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish you can serve as an appetizer, game-day snack, or even a fun weeknight meal. Add a side of Thousand Island dressing for dipping, and you’ve got guaranteed flavor-packed bites. Tip: Customize fillings with sausage, turkey, or veggies for a twist, or even turn it into a breakfast classic with eggs and ham. This dish freezes well too, ready for reheating when you’re craving something golden and delicious!

This garbage bread is my family’s secret weapon for transforming leftover ingredients into a show-stopping meal that disappears in minutes. The name might raise eyebrows, but the first bite of this cheesy, meat-filled spiral loaf will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ready in under 45 minutes from start to finish
Uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand
Endlessly customizable based on what needs using up
Perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal effort
I first created this recipe during football season when I needed something substantial but easy to serve. Now my teenagers specifically request it for game nights and even ask to take leftovers in their lunch boxes the next day.

Ingredients
Ground beef: Creates the hearty base for this bread. Choose 80/20 for best flavor but leaner works too
Diced onion: Adds sweetness that balances the savory elements. Yellow onions work best here
Salt and pepper: Essential for properly seasoning the beef
Refrigerated French bread dough: Provides convenience without sacrificing that fresh-baked taste
Ketchup and mustard: Create the perfect tangy sauce base that keeps everything moist
Bacon: Brings smokiness and crispy texture contrast. Cook until just crisp for best results
Dill pickle spears: Add brightness and acidity that cuts through the richness
American cheese: Melts beautifully and creates that perfect cheese pull
Beaten egg: Creates that golden brown exterior we all crave
Sesame seeds: Add nutty flavor and professional bakery appearance
Thousand Island dressing: Makes the perfect dipping companion
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare Your Workspace:
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Having everything ready before you start prevents the dough from warming too much during assembly.
Cook The Filling:
Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Add the diced onion when beef is about halfway cooked. Season with salt and pepper and continue cooking until beef is no longer pink and onions are translucent. Drain excess fat thoroughly to prevent a soggy bottom.
Prepare The Dough:
Unroll the refrigerated French bread dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently stretch it into a 12×18 inch rectangle. Work carefully to avoid tears or thin spots that might burst during baking.
Layer The Fillings:
Spread ketchup and mustard in an even layer across the dough, leaving a 1inch border around all edges. This border helps create a proper seal. Layer the cooked beef mixture evenly, followed by crumbled bacon pieces, chopped pickle spears, and finally arrange cheese slices to cover the entire surface.
Roll And Seal:
Carefully roll the dough starting from the long edge, creating a tight cylinder. Pinch the seam and ends firmly to seal completely. Transfer the roll to your prepared baking sheet with the seam side down.
Add Finishing Touches:
Brush the entire surface with beaten egg wash, making sure to cover every part for an even golden finish. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for that classic bakery look and added texture.
Bake To Perfection:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until deeply golden brown. The internal temperature should reach about 190°F if you have a thermometer. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for at least 5 minutes before slicing.