As I pulled the warm golden Italian Stromboli from the oven, the alluring aroma of melted cheese and savory meats filled my kitchen, hinting at the comforting feast about to unfold. This easy Italian Stromboli, stuffed with gooey mozzarella, spicy pepperoni, and smoky salami, is your new go-to for transforming an ordinary weeknight into something special. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for those hectic evenings when you crave something homemade yet quick to prepare. Not only does it have that satisfying crispy crust that everyone adores, but it’s also endlessly customizable—feel free to swap in your favorite ingredients for a twist on this classic Italian-American dish. Are you ready to take your dinner game to the next level? Why is Italian Stromboli a Must-Try? Simplicity: This recipe is a breeze! With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have dinner ready in just 35 minutes. Savory Layers: Expect a delicious explosion of flavors! The combination of melted cheese, spicy pepperoni, and smoky salami creates a rich, hearty dish that’ll keep everyone coming back for more. Versatility: Feel free to make it your own! Whether you’re swapping meats or adding veggies, the Italian Stromboli adapts beautifully to your personal taste, much like my Stuffed Italian Meatloaf for those who enjoy a hearty spin. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for serving at gatherings or family dinners, this Stromboli is sure to impress guests and kiddos alike. Comfort Food: This dish delivers that nostalgic Italian-American charm that makes you feel right at home, ensuring you never miss out on cozy meals again! Italian Stromboli Ingredients For the Dough • Refrigerated Pizza Dough – The backbone of your Italian Stromboli, this can be store-bought for convenience or homemade for a personal touch. For the Filling • Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Essential for that gooey, melty experience that will delight your taste buds. • Pepperoni – Adds a delightful kick; swap with turkey pepperoni for a healthier option if desired. • Salami – Offers a smoky depth; feel free to use your favorite deli meats as a substitute. • Deli Ham – Adds richness; consider replacing it with prosciutto for a gourmet twist. For the Seasoning • Italian Seasoning – This blend of herbs brings out the best flavors; substitute with oregano and basil if needed. • Garlic Powder – Provides aromatic warmth; fresh minced garlic can enhance the flavor even further. For the Topping • Melted Butter – Used for brushing on top to achieve that golden crust; olive oil can be a lighter alternative. For Dipping • Marinara Sauce – Essential for that authentic Italian touch, perfect for dipping and savoring every bite. Get ready to whip up a delicious Italian Stromboli that not only pleases the palate but also provides a cozy meal experience! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Italian Stromboli Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare your baking sheet. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your Italian Stromboli doesn’t stick during baking. This will also make for easy cleanup later. Set the sheet aside and gather your ingredients so everything is ready to go. Step 2: Roll Out the Dough Take your refrigerated pizza dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle measuring about 10×14 inches. Aim for an even thickness, which will help your Stromboli cook evenly. Once rolled, transfer the dough gently to your prepared baking sheet, ensuring it fits nicely. Step 3: Layer the Cheese Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around all sides. This melty layer is the heart of your Italian Stromboli, and the border is essential for sealing in the delicious fillings, so make sure not to skip it! Step 4: Add the Meat and Seasoning Now, distribute the pepperoni, salami, and deli ham evenly over the cheese. Follow this with a sprinkle of Italian seasoning and garlic powder to enhance the flavors. This savory filling will make every bite of your Italian Stromboli irresistible, so take care to cover all the cheese. Step 5: Roll the Dough Begin at one long edge of the dough and carefully roll it lengthwise into a log shape. As you roll, make sure to keep the fillings tightly packed, tucking in any loose edges. Once fully rolled, pinch the seams together to seal your Stromboli, preventing any leaks while baking. Step 6: Position and Brush Place the rolled Stromboli seam-side down on the baking sheet. With a pastry brush or spoon, generously coat the top of the dough with melted butter. This will create a beautiful golden-brown crust as it bakes, enhancing the comforting look of your Italian Stromboli. Step 7: Bake to Perfection Slide your baking sheet into the oven and bake the Stromboli for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes: you’re looking for a golden-brown crust that’s bubbly and inviting. The aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling that it’s almost time to enjoy! Step 8: Rest and Serve Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the Italian Stromboli from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making slicing easier. Finally, slice the Stromboli into pieces and serve it warm alongside marinara sauce for dipping. Italian Stromboli: Flavorful Customizations Feel free to let your creativity shine and personalize the Italian Stromboli to suit your taste! Vegetarian Delight: Replace all meats with your favorite vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a colorful twist. It’s a delicious way to pack in nutrients! Cheese Medley: Swap the mozzarella for a mix of cheddar and provolone for a bubbly experience that excites the palate. This adds an exciting flavor depth! Heat It Up: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to give your Stromboli a spicy kick. Perfect for those who love a little extra heat! Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the filling for a fragrant touch. It elevates your dish with a burst of freshness! Garlic Lovers: Incorporate roasted garlic into the cheese mixture for a rich, sweet flavor. It’s a classic way to satisfy those garlic cravings! Sweet & Savory: Include thin slices of caramelized onions or some cooked bacon for a sweet contrast to the salty meats. This combination is a crowd-pleaser! Dipping Sauces: Serve with a side of pesto or a spicy marinara sauce for dipping to elevate the dish further. It changes up the flavor experience with every bite! For even more inspiration, consider variations like my beloved Stuffed Italian Meatloaf which showcases the versatility of Italian flavors in a hearty dish! What to Serve with Easy Italian Stromboli? Indulging in a hot, savory Italian Stromboli is just the beginning of a delicious experience. Let’s elevate your meal with delightful pairings that complement its rich flavors. Crunchy Garlic Bread: The toasted, buttery bites add a satisfying crunch, perfect for dipping into marinara sauce. House Salad: Fresh greens with a tangy vinaigrette brighten the plate and balance the hearty Stromboli. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky and buttery, they provide a comforting contrast to the crispy crust of the Stromboli. Cheesy Fries: Golden fries smothered in cheese are the ultimate indulgence that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors. Roasted Veggies: A medley of colorful, roasted veggies brings sweetness and texture, enhancing the meal’s depth. Tomato Soup: This classic pairing is not only nostalgic but also delightful for dipping your Stromboli into something warm and zesty. Italian Wine: A glass of Chianti or Pinot Noir can elevate the flavors and add a touch of sophistication to your dining experience. Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a refreshing lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and leaves you feeling refreshed after the hearty Stromboli. How to Store and Freeze Italian Stromboli Fridge: Store leftover Italian Stromboli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and preserves its flavors for another meal. Freezer: If you have an abundance of Stromboli, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months for later enjoyment! Reheating: When you’re ready to indulge, reheat slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. This brings back the crispy crust and melty interior, ensuring a delightful experience all over again. Room Temperature: If you plan to enjoy your Stromboli the same day, leave it out at room temperature for up to 2 hours. This makes it perfect for gatherings or family dinners! Make Ahead Options Preparing Italian Stromboli ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes during busy weeknights! You can prep the filling by combining the shredded mozzarella, pepperoni, salami, and ham, then refrigerate this mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Just remember to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Alternatively, you can roll the Stromboli, brush it with melted butter, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 days before baking. When it’s time to serve, simply preheat your oven and pop it in as directed—it’s just as delicious as if made fresh! Enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Italian Stromboli • Avoid Overfilling: Don’t pack too many fillings inside your Stromboli; it can cause the dough to tear while rolling or during baking. • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your dough and ingredients are at room temperature for easier handling and better flavor melding in your Italian Stromboli. • Seal Tightly: Pinch the seams firmly after rolling to avoid leaks during baking. A well-sealed Stromboli results in a deliciously gooey center. • Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheese blends like provolone or a sharp cheddar for exciting flavor variations, while still maintaining that classic Italian Stromboli taste. • Baking Stone Advantage: For an extra crispy crust, bake your Stromboli on a preheated pizza stone, which helps distribute heat evenly. • Let It Rest: Allow the Stromboli to cool for a few minutes before slicing—this helps the cheese to firm up for cleaner cuts. Italian Stromboli Recipe FAQs How do I select the right pizza dough for Stromboli? Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend choosing refrigerated pizza dough that feels soft and pliable without any dark spots or holes. You can use store-bought for convenience or make your own for that personal touch if you’re feeling adventurous! How should I store leftover Stromboli, and how long will it last? Leftover Italian Stromboli keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing the container to lock in all that delicious flavor. If you find you’ve made too much, no worries! Can I freeze Stromboli, and what’s the best way to do it? Definitely! To freeze your Italian Stromboli, first allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to bring back the original crispy goodness. What if my Stromboli is leaking during baking? Very! If your Stromboli starts leaking, it’s likely overfilled or not sealed properly. To troubleshoot, gently patch any openings with additional dough and make sure to pinch the seams securely after rolling it. If it happens while baking, just enjoy the crispy edges and serve with extra marinara sauce on the side! Are there any dietary considerations for Italian Stromboli? Absolutely! If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, feel free to swap out meats for veggies to create a delightful vegetarian version. Always check the labels of your pizza dough and other ingredients for allergens, particularly if you or your guests have specific allergies. Additionally, you can replace dairy cheese with plant-based options for a dairy-free delight! Can I customize the fillings of my Stromboli? The more the merrier! Italian Stromboli is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize fillings according to your preferences. You can add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, different cheeses, or even pesto for a flavor twist. It’s all about making it your own and enjoying the experience! Savory Italian Stromboli: Easy Comfort for Any Night This easy Italian Stromboli, stuffed with gooey mozzarella, pepperoni, and salami, is the perfect comfort food for a quick weeknight meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 slicesCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough1 package Refrigerated Pizza Dough Store-bought or homemadeFor the Filling2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Essential for gooey filling1 cup Pepperoni Swap with turkey for a lighter option½ cup Salami Use your favorite deli meats½ cup Deli Ham Consider using prosciuttoFor the Seasoning1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Can substitute with oregano or basil1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be usedFor the Topping2 tablespoons Melted Butter Brush on top for golden crustFor Dipping1 cup Marinara Sauce Perfect for dipping Equipment OvenBaking sheetParchment paperPastry brush Method Step-By-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a rectangle (about 10x14 inches) on a lightly floured surface.Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.Distribute pepperoni, salami, and deli ham over the cheese. Add Italian seasoning and garlic powder.Roll the dough tightly from one long edge into a log shape, sealing the seams well.Place the rolled Stromboli seam-side down on the baking sheet. Brush the top with melted butter.Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Keep an eye for a bubbly, inviting crust.Let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve with marinara sauce for dipping. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg NotesAvoid overfilling to prevent tearing. Use room temperature ingredients for best results. Experiment with different cheeses for flavor variations. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
