Homemade Stromboli is a fun, rolled-up pizza that everyone loves! It’s loaded with gooey cheese, spicy pepperoni, and fresh veggies, all wrapped in a golden crust.
This dish is like a hug in bread form! I like to dip it in marinara sauce for an extra zing. It’s perfect for family nights or just because! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use either store-bought or homemade dough. If you’re short on time, store-bought is a lifesaver. For a healthier option, try whole wheat dough or even a cauliflower crust!
Marinara Sauce: This adds flavor and moisture. If you’re out, any tomato sauce will work. You could also use pesto for a different twist.
Meats: Pepperoni is classic, but swapping in turkey pepperoni or leaving out meat entirely makes it vegetarian-friendly. Salami or ham can add a nice touch, too.
Cheese: Mozzarella is key for its meltiness. If you want a sharper taste, try provolone or a mix of different cheeses like cheddar and Fontina.
Herbs & Spices: Italian seasoning is great, but fresh herbs like basil or oregano can really elevate the dish. Feel free to adjust based on what you love!
How Do You Roll the Perfect Stromboli?
The key challenge is rolling up the stromboli without losing any filling. To do this, make sure your dough is rolled out to the right thickness—about 1/4 inch thick is best. Here’s how to nail that roll:
- Spread your fillings evenly over the dough, keeping that 1-inch border.
- When rolling, start at one long edge and tuck it tightly. This seals in the fillings and helps maintain shape.
- Pinch the seams closed after rolling. You want to prevent leaks during baking, so make sure it’s well-sealed!
Enjoy your stromboli with friends and family—it’s a dish that brings everyone together!
Homemade Stromboli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Stromboli:
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce (plus more for dipping)
- 6 oz sliced pepperoni
- 6 oz sliced ham or salami (optional)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For The Seasoning and Garnish:
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil (optional, for brushing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious homemade stromboli takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to bake. So, in total, expect about 45 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a quick dinner that feels special.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Roll Out the Dough:
On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, about 12×15 inches. This will give you plenty of space for all the yummy fillings.
3. Add the Sauce:
Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the dough, but remember to leave about a 1-inch border around the edges. This helps keep the fillings from leaking out when you roll it up!
4. Layer the Meats:
Evenly layer the sliced pepperoni over the sauce. If you’re using optional ham or salami, add that on top of the pepperoni for extra flavor!
5. Add the Cheeses:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese all over the meat layer, then finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a deliciously cheesy finish!
6. Roll It Up:
Starting from one long edge, carefully roll up the dough tightly, tucking in the edges as you go to seal in all the juicy goodness. Aim for a log shape!
7. Transfer to Baking Sheet:
Place the rolled stromboli seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. This helps keep it secure while baking!
8. Egg Wash & Season:
Brush the top of the stromboli with the beaten egg to promote a beautiful brown color when baked. Then, sprinkle dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and a bit more Parmesan over the top to add flavor!
9. Make Vent Holes:
Using a sharp knife, make a few small slits on top. This allows steam to escape, helping the stromboli cook evenly and not explode!
10. Bake:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy!
11. Cool & Slice:
Remove the stromboli from the oven and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This makes it easier to cut and keeps the filling from spilling out.
12. Garnish & Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy!
Now you’ve got a delicious, cheesy homemade stromboli that’s perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself)! Happy eating! 🍕
Can I Use Store-Bought Dough for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Using store-bought pizza dough saves time and still gives you great results. Just follow the rest of the instructions as they are.
Can I Freeze Leftover Stromboli?
Yes, you can freeze stromboli after baking! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake directly from the freezer at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What Other Fillings Can I Add?
The possibilities are endless! Feel free to customize your stromboli with different meats like chicken or sausage, or add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
How Do I Prevent the Stromboli from Getting Soggy?
To avoid sogginess, make sure to leave a 1-inch border when spreading the sauce and to bake it until the dough is golden brown. You can also reduce the amount of sauce or drain any excess moisture from veggies prior to adding them.