Description
The Ultimate Homemade Stromboli is a delicious, satisfying Italian-American main course featuring a rolled pizza dough filled with a savory mix of cheeses, pepperoni, ham, and Italian seasoning. Baked to golden perfection, this family favorite is perfect for a cozy dinner and pairs wonderfully with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Ingredients
Scale
Stromboli Dough and Sauce
- 1 pound pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
- ½ cup marinara or pizza sauce (plus more for dipping)
- flour for dusting
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cheese and Meat Filling
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded provolone cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ pound sliced pepperoni or salami
- ¼ pound sliced ham or cooked sausage
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Optional Garnishes
- red pepper flakes
- chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare Dough: Lightly dust a clean surface with flour and roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle approximately 10 by 14 inches, ensuring an even thickness for consistent baking.
- Spread Sauce: Evenly spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the rolled dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges to prevent leakage during baking.
- Add Fillings: Layer the shredded mozzarella, provolone, grated Parmesan, sliced pepperoni, and ham (or cooked sausage) evenly over the sauce. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the top for enhanced flavor.
- Roll Stromboli: Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, ensuring the filling stays inside. Pinch the seam and ends firmly to seal the stromboli and prevent filling from spilling out during baking.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the entire surface with the beaten egg to create a glossy, golden crust. Cut 3–4 small slits on top to allow steam to escape while baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes until the stromboli is golden brown and cooked through, with melted cheese and bubbly filling.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the stromboli to rest for 5–10 minutes after baking to let the filling set. Slice into desired portions and serve warm with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Optionally garnish with red pepper flakes or fresh parsley.
Notes
- Customize with your favorite meats, cheeses, or even add veggies like spinach and roasted peppers for variety.
- To make ahead, assemble the stromboli and refrigerate for up to 6 hours before baking to save time on serving day.
- Use a sharp knife to slice for clean, neat pieces without crushing the stromboli.
- Ensure the seam is well sealed to avoid filling spilling during baking.
