Introduction
Ever wondered what to do with leftover bread? We’ve got you covered! This Garbage Bread recipe turns stale bread and pantry staples into a deliciously crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying treat. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner or a fun weekend snack the whole family will love! Get ready to transform your kitchen scraps into a culinary masterpiece!
Why This Works
This recipe is a winner because it’s ridiculously easy, incredibly adaptable, and uses up leftover bread—reducing food waste and maximizing flavor. The combination of melted cheese, crispy bread, and savory spices creates a symphony of textures and tastes that’s hard to resist! It’s budget-friendly comfort food at its finest.
Key Ingredients
- 🍞 4 cups cubed stale bread (any kind works!)
- 🧀 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 🧀 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 🧅 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🥚 2 large eggs, slightly beaten
- 🥛 1/2 cup milk
- 🌿 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 🧂 1 teaspoon salt
- 🤤 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 🧈 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2️⃣ In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, onion, garlic, parsley (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
3️⃣ In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
4️⃣ Pour the egg mixture over the bread mixture and stir gently until the bread is evenly moistened. Don’t overmix! Some dry bits are okay.
5️⃣ Pour the melted butter over the bread mixture and stir to coat.
6️⃣ Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
7️⃣ Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8️⃣ Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Handy Tips
- You can use any kind of bread you have on hand – even day-old rolls or croissants!
- Feel free to add other cheeses, such as Parmesan or Monterey Jack.
- If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can use dried parsley or omit it altogether.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of your favorite herbs and spices, like oregano, thyme, or paprika.
Heat Control
Baking at 350°F (175°C) ensures the bread gets perfectly crispy without burning. If you notice the top browning too quickly, loosely cover the dish with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t get too dry.
Crunch Factor
The crunch comes from the crisped-up bread edges and the slightly browned cheese. The slightly soggy center contrasts beautifully with the crispy exterior; this textural contrast is part of what makes garbage bread so addictive.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For extra cheesy goodness, sprinkle some extra cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Add some diced cooked bacon or sausage for a heartier dish.
- If your bread is extra stale, you might need to add a tablespoon or two more of milk to ensure everything is moist.
Storage Tips
Store leftover Garbage Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but reheating in the microwave or oven for a few minutes will restore some of its crispiness.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This makes a great potluck dish! Simply transport it in the baking dish covered with foil or plastic wrap. For a fancier presentation, you could transfer it to a beautiful casserole dish before serving.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Garbage Bread: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture.
🌟 Italian Garbage Bread: Add sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese.
🌟 Mexican Garbage Bread: Add diced jalapeños, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and a sprinkle of cumin.
🌟 Garlic Lovers Garbage Bread: Add an extra 2-3 cloves of minced garlic and sprinkle with garlic powder.
Troubleshooting
- Too dry: If your Garbage Bread is too dry, add a tablespoon or two of milk next time.
- Not crispy enough: Increase the oven temperature by 25°F (15°C) next time, or bake for a few more minutes.
- Burnt: If the top is burning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen bread? While not ideal, you can. Thaw it completely before using, and you might need to add a little extra milk.
- Can I make this ahead of time? You can assemble the Garbage Bread ahead but bake it just before serving for the best results.
- What kind of cheese is best? Use your favorite cheeses! A blend is great – we love cheddar and mozzarella.
- Can I add vegetables? Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach are all great additions.
- Is this dish healthy? It’s a comforting dish, not necessarily a health food. You can adjust ingredients to make it a slightly healthier choice.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy this simple, delicious, and surprisingly versatile Garbage Bread recipe! It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover bread and create a comforting meal the whole family will adore. Share your creations with us – we’d love to see your Garbage Bread masterpieces! Happy baking!