Italian Stromboli is a savory roll filled with layers of deli meats, cheese, and flavorful herbs, all wrapped in a golden, crispy crust. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game day snacks, or as a party appetizer, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious. Follow this simple recipe for a homemade Stromboli that’s sure to impress your family and guests.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- All-purpose flour for dusting
Filling
- 6 ounces thinly sliced salami
- 6 ounces thinly sliced pepperoni
- 6 ounces thinly sliced ham
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 ounces shredded provolone cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup marinara or pizza sauce (optional, for serving)
Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds or grated Parmesan (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, approximately 10×14 inches.
2. Layer the Fillings
- Leave a 1-inch border around the edges of the dough.
- Layer the salami, pepperoni, and ham evenly across the dough.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheeses over the meat.
3. Roll the Stromboli
- Carefully roll the dough from one long edge to the other, forming a tight log.
- Pinch the seams and ends to seal. Place the Stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Add the Egg Wash and Seasoning
- Brush the top and sides of the Stromboli with beaten egg.
- Mix the olive oil, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder in a small bowl, then brush this mixture over the egg wash for extra flavor.
- Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds or grated Parmesan on top.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the Stromboli is golden brown and cooked through.
- Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve
- Slice the Stromboli into 1-inch thick pieces and serve with warm marinara or pizza sauce for dipping.
Cooking Tips
- Room Temperature Dough: Let the pizza dough come to room temperature before rolling to prevent tearing.
- Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can make it difficult to roll and seal the Stromboli.
- Ventilation: Cut 2-3 small slits on top of the rolled dough to allow steam to escape during baking.
Variations
- Veggie Stromboli: Replace the meats with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions. Add feta or goat cheese for extra flavor.
- Buffalo Chicken Stromboli: Use shredded buffalo chicken, cheddar cheese, and a drizzle of ranch dressing.
- Breakfast Stromboli: Fill with scrambled eggs, cooked sausage or bacon, and shredded cheese for a morning treat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Stromboli ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the Stromboli and refrigerate it (uncooked) for up to 24 hours. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Wrap leftover slices tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for the best texture.
3. Can I freeze Stromboli?
Absolutely! Freeze it unbaked or after baking. For unbaked Stromboli, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
4. What sides go well with Stromboli?
Pair it with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of garlic bread.
5. Can I use puff pastry instead of pizza dough?
Yes, puff pastry creates a flaky, buttery crust and works well for a different texture. Adjust the baking time as needed.
Italian Stromboli is a crowd-pleaser that combines bold flavors and a satisfying crunch in every bite. Whether you stick with the classic Italian filling or experiment with creative variations, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Easy to customize, make-ahead friendly, and perfect for sharing, Stromboli is a must-try addition to your recipe collection.
Gather your ingredients and roll up something delicious today
