A golden, crispy Italian Stromboli filled with layers of melted cheese, savory cured meats, and aromatic seasonings, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Baked to perfection with a flaky crust and a gooey, flavorful filling, Stromboli is the perfect combination of pizza and stuffed bread—ideal for parties, game nights, or a quick and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Cheesy – A perfectly golden crust with a melty, flavorful filling.
- Customizable – Swap out meats, cheeses, or seasonings for your own twist.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and quick preparation make this a hassle-free dish.
- Great for Sharing – Perfect for gatherings, game nights, or as a party appetizer.
- Pairs Well with Marinara Sauce – Enjoy with a side of warm marinara for dipping.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Dough & Filling:
- Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Sliced provolone cheese
- Sliced pepperoni
- Sliced salami
- Sliced ham
- Italian seasoning
- Garlic powder
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For Brushing & Topping:
- Olive oil
- Egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Grated Parmesan cheese
For Serving:
- Marinara sauce (optional)
Directions
Prepare the Stromboli:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface.
Add the Fillings:
- Evenly layer mozzarella, provolone, pepperoni, salami, and ham over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
- Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Roll and Seal:
- Carefully roll the dough tightly from one long edge to the other, tucking in the sides as you go.
- Place the Stromboli seam-side down on the baking sheet.
Brush and Bake:
- Brush the top with olive oil and egg wash, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Using a sharp knife, make small slits on top to allow steam to escape.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
Slice and Serve:
- Let cool for 5 minutes, then slice and serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6 slices
- Calories: 420 kcal per serving
Variations
- Vegetarian Stromboli – Swap out meats for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, roasted peppers, or olives.
- Buffalo Chicken Stromboli – Replace Italian meats with shredded buffalo chicken and blue cheese.
- BBQ Stromboli – Use BBQ chicken, cheddar cheese, and caramelized onions for a smoky twist.
- Extra Cheesy – Add ricotta or extra layers of mozzarella for a gooier texture.
- Whole Wheat Option – Use whole wheat pizza dough for a slightly healthier version.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Wrap leftovers in foil or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds until heated through.
FAQs
What is the difference between Stromboli and calzone?
Stromboli is rolled like a log and sliced, while calzone is folded over like a half-moon and sealed at the edges.
Can I make Stromboli ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the Stromboli, cover it, and refrigerate for a few hours before baking.
What’s the best way to prevent a soggy Stromboli?
Avoid overloading with sauce inside—serve the marinara on the side instead.
Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly for a quick and easy version.
Can I use puff pastry instead of pizza dough?
Yes, but the texture will be lighter and flakier rather than chewy and crispy.
What’s the best cheese for Stromboli?
Mozzarella and provolone melt beautifully, but you can also add Parmesan, cheddar, or Gouda for extra flavor.
Should I let the Stromboli cool before slicing?
Yes, letting it rest for 5 minutes helps the cheese set and makes slicing easier.
Can I make a mini version of Stromboli?
Absolutely! Divide the dough into smaller portions and roll individual mini Stromboli for appetizers.
How do I get a crispy crust?
Brushing with olive oil and egg wash before baking ensures a golden, crispy exterior.
What should I serve with Stromboli?
Pair with marinara sauce, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Classic Italian Stromboli is a delicious and versatile dish that combines crispy crust, melty cheese, and savory meats into the perfect baked roll. Whether served as a quick weeknight dinner, party snack, or game-day treat, this cheesy, golden-brown Stromboli is always a hit. Try it today and bring a taste of Italy to your kitchen!
