Italian Stromboli
Italian Stromboli is a delicious, rolled-up sandwich packed with layers of mozzarella cheese, savory meats like salami and pepperoni, and flavorful Italian seasonings all wrapped in a golden, crispy dough.…
Tip: save now, cook later.Italian Stromboli is a delicious, rolled-up sandwich packed with layers of mozzarella cheese, savory meats like salami and pepperoni, and flavorful Italian seasonings all wrapped in a golden, crispy dough. It’s like a pizza and a sandwich had a tasty, comforting baby that’s perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself.
I love making Stromboli because it’s so fun to customize. You can add your favorite Italian meats, some roasted peppers, or even a little spinach to sneak in some greens. The best part is watching it bake and get that beautiful golden crust while the cheese melts perfectly inside. It always fills the house with the most amazing smell that has everyone asking when dinner will be ready!
My favorite way to enjoy Italian Stromboli is with a simple side of marinara sauce for dipping. It turns a slice of Stromboli into a little flavor-packed bite every time. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a game day snack, or even a casual get-together, this Stromboli always feels like a fun and tasty celebration. I usually make extra because leftovers are just as delicious the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: Use store-bought for convenience or homemade if you want a fresher taste. Whole wheat dough adds a nutty flavor and more fiber.
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella melts nicely, but shredded mozzarella works well too. You could swap in provolone or fontina for a twist.
Italian Meats: Salami, ham, and pepperoni bring classic flavor and a nice balance of spice and salt. For a lighter choice, try turkey pepperoni or omit meats and add grilled veggies.
Marinara Sauce: A good sauce ties everything together. Use your favorite jarred sauce or homemade if you have time. Adding a pinch of garlic powder or red pepper flakes can boost flavor.
How Do You Roll and Seal Stromboli Without Stuffing Leaking Out?
Rolling the Stromboli tightly and sealing the edges well is key. Here’s how I do it:
- Spread fillings evenly but don’t overload the dough.
- Start rolling from the long edge, rolling gently but firmly.
- Pinch dough edges and ends firmly to close, so filling can’t escape while baking.
- Place the Stromboli seam-side down on the baking sheet to help it stay sealed during baking.
- Make slits on top to release steam—this prevents the crust from bursting open.
This method keeps everything inside and creates a neat, golden crust every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – big enough for the Stromboli to fit without squishing, lined with parchment for easy cleanup.
- Rolling pin – helps you spread the dough evenly into a rectangle for easy rolling.
- Sharp knife – to make steam slits on top and slice the Stromboli after baking.
- Pastry brush – lets you apply the egg wash smoothly for a golden crust.
- Mixing bowl – if you make your own dough or beat the egg for the wash.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Italian meats for cooked sausage or chopped roasted chicken for a different protein flavor.
- Use provolone or fontina cheese instead of mozzarella for a richer, creamier melt.
- Add sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach inside for color and extra veggies.
- Mix in crushed red pepper flakes or fresh basil for a tasty hint of spice or herb freshness.
How to Make Italian Stromboli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough and Sauce:
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce, plus extra for dipping
For the Filling:
- 8 oz sliced mozzarella cheese
- 6 oz sliced salami
- 6 oz sliced ham
- 6 oz sliced pepperoni
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
For Finishing Touches:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. You’ll spend a little time rolling and sealing the Stromboli, then waiting as it bakes to a beautiful golden brown. Overall, plan for about 45 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough and Preheat Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a rectangle roughly 12 by 16 inches.
2. Add Sauce and Fillings:
Spread an even layer of marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Next, layer slices of mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. Arrange the salami, ham, and pepperoni slices on top of the cheese. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning over everything for extra flavor.
3. Roll and Seal the Stromboli:
Carefully roll the dough starting from one long edge into a tight log shape, making sure to enclose the filling well. Pinch the dough edges and ends firmly to seal the Stromboli, so nothing leaks out during baking. Place the rolled Stromboli seam-side down on your lined baking sheet.
4. Finish and Bake:
Brush the beaten egg all over the top of the Stromboli to help it develop a shiny, golden crust. Using a sharp knife, make 3-4 small diagonal slits along the top to let steam escape as it bakes. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the crust is deeply golden and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.
5. Cool and Serve:
Remove the Stromboli from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil before slicing. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping—yum!
Can I Use Frozen Pizza Dough for Stromboli?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the dough completely in the fridge overnight before rolling it out. This helps it roll smoothly and bake evenly.
Can I Prepare Stromboli Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the Stromboli and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
How Should I Store Leftover Stromboli?
Store leftovers in an airtight container or wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to keep the crust crispy.
What If I Don’t Have Italian Meats?
No problem! You can substitute with cooked sausage, grilled chicken, or go vegetarian by adding sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, peppers, or spinach instead.
