Homemade Stromboli Recipe

The Best Homemade Stromboli Recipe You’ll Ever Make

Rolled dough packed with savory meats and melting homemade stromboli brings pure comfort to your dinner table.

This classic Italian-American dish combines crispy crust with layers of delectable fillings.

Tender salami, pepperoni, and gooey cheese create an irresistible combination inside each slice.

Baked until golden brown, the stromboli offers a satisfying crunch that makes every bite memorable.

Simple ingredients and straightforward preparation mean you can craft this delicious meal in no time.

The aroma of freshly baked bread and seasoned meats will draw everyone to the kitchen.

Each slice promises a delightful journey through rich, hearty flavors that celebrate traditional Italian cuisine.

What Makes Homemade Stromboli So Fun and Satisfying

  • Quick and Easy Meal: Whip up a delicious homemade Stromboli with minimal prep work and basic ingredients, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
  • Customizable Flavor Adventure: Swap out meats, cheeses, and seasonings to create your own unique version, making this recipe a versatile crowd-pleaser for all taste preferences.
  • Family-Friendly Comfort Food: Packed with cheesy goodness and savory meats, this Stromboli offers a fun, interactive meal that both kids and adults will love, turning dinner into an exciting culinary experience.
  • Impressive Party Centerpiece: Wow your guests with a restaurant-quality dish that looks and tastes gourmet but requires surprisingly little culinary expertise to prepare.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Stromboli at Home

Main Ingredients:
  • Pizza Dough: A soft and stretchy base ready for delicious fillings.
  • Pepper Jack Cheese: A spicy and creamy cheese for extra kick.
  • Pepperoni Slices: Classic, zesty meat topping for bold flavor.
  • Salami Slices: Savory Italian-style meat with rich taste.
  • Ham Slices: Tender and mild meat layer.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Smooth and melty cheese for gooey goodness.
Seasoning Ingredients:
  • Garlic Powder, Italian Seasoning: Aromatic spices that boost overall flavor.
Binding and Finishing Ingredients:
  • Egg, Water: Creates a golden brown sheen on the surface.
  • Garlic Butter: Rich and flavorful spread for the dough.
  • Cooking Spray or Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking during baking.
  • Marinara Sauce: Classic dipping sauce for serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Stromboli

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 375°F.

Make sure the rack is positioned in the center for even baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough Canvas

Sprinkle some flour on your countertop and gently unroll the pizza dough.

Smooth it out with a rolling pin, creating a rectangular masterpiece.

Step 3: Add Flavor Foundation

Generously brush the dough with garlic butter, spreading deliciousness across every inch.

Step 4: Create Flavor Layers

Build your flavor landscape with these ingredients:
  • Pepper jack cheese
  • Pepperoni slices
  • Salami
  • Ham
  • Mozzarella cheese

Distribute each ingredient evenly, leaving a small border around the edges.

Step 5: Enhance the Flavor Profile

Dust the layers with:
  • Garlic powder
  • Italian seasoning

Ensuring each bite will be packed with zesty goodness.

Step 6: Transform into a Delicious Roll

Carefully roll the dough from one long side to another, like creating a savory jelly roll.

Pinch the edges and seal the ends to lock in all the delicious fillings.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking Brilliance

Transfer your rolled creation to a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Whip up an egg wash by mixing an egg with a splash of water, then brush it over the top of the dough.

Slice a few strategic vents to let steam escape.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the Stromboli into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.

Watch for a gorgeous golden-brown crust and bubbling, melted cheese.

Step 9: Rest and Serve

Let the Stromboli cool for a few minutes to allow the cheese to set.

Slice and serve with marinara sauce for dipping.

Enjoy your homemade flavor explosion!

Tips for Rolling and Baking the Best Stromboli

  • Select fresh, high-quality deli meats and cheeses for the most flavorful Stromboli. Opt for pepper jack, mozzarella, and a mix of pepperoni, salami, and ham to create a rich, complex taste profile.
  • Avoid overloading with wet ingredients to prevent a soggy crust. Pat meats and cheeses dry if they seem too moist, and don't skip the egg wash for a perfectly crisp exterior.
  • Roll the dough tightly but gently to ensure even cooking and prevent air pockets. Pinch the seams firmly to keep the fillings tucked inside during baking.
  • Experiment with different cheese and meat combinations to suit your taste. Consider adding vegetables like roasted peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
  • Let the Stromboli rest for a few minutes after baking to set the cheese. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy texture.

How to Store and Reheat Stromboli Easily

  • Store leftover Stromboli in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Place Stromboli on a baking sheet and warm for 10-12 minutes until heated through. This method helps restore crispy exterior and melty cheese.
  • For quick reheating, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking to prevent overcooking. Note that microwaving might soften the crust.
  • Wrap individual slices in aluminum foil, then place in freezer bag. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating for best texture and flavor.

What To Serve With Warm, Cheesy Stromboli

  • Pair with Robust Red Wine: Select a bold, medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese that complements the rich, savory flavors of pepperoni and cheese.
  • Create Crisp Salad Companion: Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the Stromboli's heaviness and provide a fresh, zesty contrast.
  • Serve Complementary Craft Beer: Choose an amber ale or hoppy IPA that cuts through the cheese's richness and matches the Stromboli's hearty meat profile.
  • Offer Tangy Dipping Sauce: Prepare a homemade marinara or spicy aioli that enhances the dish's Italian-inspired flavors and adds an extra layer of taste excitement.

Delicious Fillings and Twists for Homemade Stromboli

  • Vegetarian Stromboli: Replace meat fillings with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach, using a mix of plant-based cheeses for protein and flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap traditional pizza dough with a gluten-free alternative made from cauliflower or almond flour, ensuring those with wheat sensitivities can enjoy the dish.
  • Low-Carb Version: Use thin slices of prosciutto as a wrap instead of traditional dough, creating a protein-packed, carbohydrate-reduced alternative that maintains the classic Stromboli taste.
  • Mediterranean Remix: Incorporate feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and kalamata olives to transform the traditional recipe into a Greek-inspired rolled sandwich with vibrant Mediterranean flavors.

FAQs

  • What are the key ingredients for this Stromboli recipe?

The key ingredients include pizza dough, pepper jack cheese, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, salami, ham, garlic butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

  • Can I substitute the meats in the recipe?

Yes, you can easily swap out the meats with your favorite cold cuts like turkey, prosciutto, or different types of salami based on your preference.

  • How do I prevent the Stromboli from becoming soggy?

Cut several slits on top of the dough to allow steam to escape, and make sure not to overload the fillings, which can prevent proper cooking and cause sogginess.

  • Is this recipe suitable for make-ahead preparation?

You can prepare the Stromboli up to the point of rolling and sealing, then refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. This makes it convenient for meal planning or entertaining.

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Homemade Stromboli Recipe

Homemade Stromboli Recipe


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4.8 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Mouthwatering homemade stromboli rolls through Italian-American culinary traditions with layers of savory meats, melted cheeses, and herbed dough. Crisp exterior and gooey interior promise a delectable journey that satisfies deep comfort food cravings you won’t soon forget.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Protein:

  • 1 ounces/28 grams pepperoni slices
  • 1 ounces/28 grams salami slices
  • 1 ounces/28 grams ham slices

Cheese:

  • 1 sliced pepper jack cheese
  • 1 shredded or sliced mozzarella cheese

Dough and Seasonings:

  • 1 can pizza dough
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 garlic butter (for brushing)
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Clear a spacious workspace and gather all ingredients to streamline the preparation process.
  2. Activate the oven, setting the temperature precisely to 375°F (190°C) to create an ideal baking environment.
  3. Gently unroll the pizza dough onto a lightly dusted surface, using a rolling pin to carefully flatten and elongate into a uniform rectangular shape.
  4. Apply a thin, even layer of fragrant garlic butter across the entire dough surface, ensuring complete coverage for maximum flavor infusion.
  5. Strategically arrange pepper jack cheese slices, creating a foundational layer that will melt and bind the internal ingredients.
  6. Layer pepperoni, salami, and ham in overlapping patterns, distributing proteins evenly to guarantee consistent taste in every bite.
  7. Generously crown the meats with mozzarella, selecting either shredded or sliced cheese to personal preference.
  8. Sprinkle a harmonious blend of garlic powder and Italian seasoning, allowing the herbs and spices to permeate the filling.
  9. Execute a precise rolling technique, transforming the layered dough into a compact cylinder, meticulously sealing the edges to prevent ingredient escape.
  10. Position the rolled creation on a parchment-lined baking sheet, presenting it for its final transformation.
  11. Delicately brush the exterior with an egg wash, which will yield a lustrous, golden-brown exterior during baking.
  12. Strategically slice several ventilation cuts across the top, enabling steam release and preventing internal sogginess.
  13. Transfer to the preheated oven, allowing 20-25 minutes of transformative heat to meld flavors and achieve optimal texture.
  14. Permit a brief resting period post-baking, enabling internal temperatures to stabilize and cheese to set.
  15. Slice with precision and serve alongside marinara sauce, inviting guests to indulge in this magnificent culinary creation.

Notes

  • Customize your Stromboli by swapping out meats and cheeses to suit personal taste preferences or dietary needs like vegetarian options.
  • For a gluten-free version, use cauliflower or gluten-free pizza dough as a base to accommodate those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Prevent soggy bottoms by preheating a pizza stone or using a perforated baking sheet to enhance air circulation and crisp up the dough’s underside.
  • Experiment with different seasoning blends like ranch powder, smoked paprika, or red pepper flakes to elevate the flavor profile and add a unique twist to the classic recipe.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg
James Hambly

James Hambly

Founder & Recipe Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Education, Farm-to-Table Cooking, Southern Cuisine

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Hands-on training in professional cooking techniques, emphasizing farm-to-table practices and Southern cuisine.

The Chef’s Academy
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive culinary education covering global cuisines, kitchen management, and food safety.​


James grew up surrounded by the smells of cast-iron skillets and slow-cooked Southern meals in Asheville, North Carolina.
He sharpened his skills with a Certificate in Culinary Arts from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, and later leveled up with an Associate Degree from The Chef’s Academy.
James’s philosophy is simple: the best meals don’t need fancy tricks, just fresh ingredients, a hot pan, and a little bit of heart. His favorite days are spent testing one-pan wonders, chasing bold flavors, and creating recipes that feel easy, even on a busy night.

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