Italian Stromboli
Italian Stromboli is a delicious handheld roll that's packed with layers of melted cheese, savory Italian meats like salami and pepperoni, and a blend of herbs that bring everything together.…
Tip: save now, cook later.Italian Stromboli is a delicious handheld roll that’s packed with layers of melted cheese, savory Italian meats like salami and pepperoni, and a blend of herbs that bring everything together. Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, it’s like a pizza wrapped up in a warm, golden crust that’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!
I love making Italian Stromboli for casual dinners or game nights because it’s so easy to slice and serve. One of my favorite things is how flexible it is—you can add veggies, extra cheeses, or your favorite meats to make it just right for your taste. I often add a little marinara on the side for dipping because who doesn’t love a good sauce with this kind of sandwich?
Whenever I make Italian Stromboli, it always brings back memories of lively family gatherings where everyone eagerly reaches for their slice and stories flow as easily as the mozzarella stretches. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a treat but really comes together without fuss. If you haven’t tried it yet, I think you’re going to love how this tasty Italian classic turns dinner into a fun and cozy experience.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: Store-bought dough is a huge time saver, but homemade gives a lovely fresh texture. If you want a gluten-free option, plenty of gluten-free doughs work well here.
Cheese: Mozzarella and provolone are classic choices for meltiness and flavor. You can swap provolone for fontina or even cheddar for a twist. Fresh shredded mozzarella melts better than pre-shredded.
Italian Deli Meats: Salami, pepperoni, and capicola bring authentic flair. If you prefer a lighter option, try turkey or chicken pepperoni, or just use vegetables like roasted peppers and mushrooms.
Marinara Sauce: Use good-quality sauce or homemade for the best flavor. If you don’t want sauce inside, serve it all on the side for dipping instead.
Egg Wash: This gives the crust that golden shine and helps the seasoning stick. No egg? You can brush with milk or olive oil instead.
How Can You Roll and Seal Stromboli Without Cheese Leaking Out?
Rolling stromboli tightly is key to keeping all the melty cheese and fillings inside while baking. Here’s how:
- Roll slowly and evenly from one long edge, keeping the fillings tucked inside.
- Once rolled, press the dough edges firmly together, pinching to seal. You can also brush a little water or egg wash along the edge to help it stick.
- Place the stromboli seam side down on the baking sheet to reduce chances of opening in the oven.
- Make slits on top to let steam escape but don’t cut all the way through.
These little steps helped me keep the stromboli intact with oozy, melted cheese inside every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – a sturdy one helps the stromboli bake evenly and hold its shape.
- Parchment paper – prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Rolling pin – to roll out your dough thin and evenly.
- Sharp knife – essential for making neat slits and slicing the stromboli after baking.
- Pastry brush – perfect for applying egg wash to get that golden crust.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Italian meats for cooked sausage or meatballs for a heartier bite.
- Add sautéed spinach or roasted red peppers to sneak in some veggies and extra flavor.
- Try using a mix of mozzarella and sharp cheddar for a different cheesy taste.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes inside for a little heat if you like it spicy.
How to Make Italian Stromboli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dough and Filling:
- 1 package (about 1 lb) pizza dough, store-bought or homemade
- 6 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 6 oz provolone cheese, sliced or shredded
- 8 oz Italian deli meats (salami, pepperoni, capicola), thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce, plus extra for serving
For the Topping:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Cornmeal or flour for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, around 25-30 minutes to bake, plus 5-10 minutes to rest before slicing. So, plan for about 45 minutes total from start to finish. Simple and rewarding!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dough:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease your baking sheet or line it with parchment paper, then sprinkle with cornmeal or flour to keep the stromboli from sticking. On a floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a roughly 12 by 16-inch rectangle, nice and even.
2. Add the Sauce, Meats, and Cheese:
Spread marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border all around. Next, layer your Italian deli meats over the sauce, followed by the slices or shreds of provolone and mozzarella cheese.
3. Roll and Seal the Stromboli:
Starting at one of the long edges, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Pinch the edges well to seal so the cheese and fillings won’t leak out during baking. Place the rolled stromboli seam side down on your prepared baking sheet.
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
Brush the top with the beaten egg for a beautiful golden crust. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle it evenly over the top. Use a sharp knife to cut several shallow diagonal slits about ½ inch apart across the top to let steam escape.
5. Bake, Rest, and Serve:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly inside. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. For an extra tasty touch, sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Enjoy your delicious, cheesy Italian Stromboli that’s crispy on the outside and full of savory Italian flavors on the inside!
Can I Use Frozen Pizza Dough for Stromboli?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the dough completely in the fridge overnight before rolling it out. This helps prevent tearing and makes it easier to work with.
What Can I Substitute for Italian Deli Meats?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, try roasted vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach. You can also swap meats for cooked sausage or omit them entirely for a cheesy stromboli.
How Should I Store Leftover Stromboli?
Cool leftovers completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Prepare Stromboli Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the stromboli, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it’s chilled straight from the fridge.