Stromboli Recipe

Stromboli is a delicious and easy-to-make Italian-American dish that’s perfect for family dinners, game days, or casual gatherings. It’s essentially a rolled pizza, stuffed with your favorite meats, cheeses, and vegetables, then baked to golden perfection. With its crispy crust and flavorful filling, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Customizable: You can use any combination of fillings to suit your taste preferences.
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A hit with both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it in advance and bake when needed.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pizza dough
• Sliced deli meats (pepperoni, salami, ham)
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional fillings: sautéed vegetables, olives, or banana peppers
• Egg wash (1 egg + 1 tablespoon water, whisked together)
• Marinara sauce (for dipping)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
2. Layer the Fillings: Evenly spread your chosen meats, cheeses, and any additional fillings over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
3. Roll It Up: Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the edges and ends to seal.
4. Apply Egg Wash: Place the stromboli seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top and sides with egg wash.
5. Score and Bake: Make a few shallow slits on top to allow steam to escape. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
6. Cool and Serve: Let the stromboli cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes about 4–6 servings.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Skip the meats and load up on sautéed spinach, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers.
• Cheese Lovers: Add ricotta or provolone for an extra cheesy filling.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
• BBQ Flavor: Use barbecue sauce instead of marinara and fill with cooked chicken, red onions, and cheddar cheese.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover stromboli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the unbaked stromboli tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
• Reheating: Warm slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between stromboli and calzone?

Stromboli is rolled and sliced after baking, while calzones are folded into a half-moon shape and sealed before baking.

2. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe and saves time.

3. Can I make stromboli ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the stromboli and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

4. What’s the best dipping sauce for stromboli?

Marinara sauce is the classic choice, but garlic butter, ranch, or Alfredo sauce are great alternatives.

5. How do I prevent the stromboli from getting soggy?

Avoid overloading with wet ingredients, and make sure to leave a border to seal the edges well.

6. Can I make mini strombolis?

Yes, divide the dough into smaller rectangles, fill, roll, and bake for mini versions.

7. Can I use whole wheat dough?

Yes, whole wheat dough is a healthier alternative and works well in this recipe.

8. What’s the best way to reheat stromboli?

Reheat slices in the oven to retain the crispy crust, rather than using a microwave.

9. Can I make a gluten-free stromboli?

Yes, use gluten-free pizza dough to accommodate dietary needs.

10. How do I know when stromboli is done baking?

The crust should be golden brown, and the internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C).

Conclusion

Stromboli is a versatile and delicious recipe that brings the flavors of Italy to your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a party or planning a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to impress. With endless filling options and easy preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Serve it with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy every bite!

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