If you’re craving a warm, cheesy, and savory treat that perfectly blends the joy of pizza with the convenience of a handheld meal, this Homemade Stromboli Recipe is exactly what you need. With its golden crust, melty mozzarella, zesty marinara, and your choice of delicious fillings rolled up inside, this stromboli is a superstar for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or anytime comfort food calls your name. Trust me, once you try making this classic Italian-American delight yourself, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for anything less.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, whether it’s lending flavor, creating that perfect gooey texture, or giving the stromboli an irresistible golden finish. These simple yet essential components come together beautifully to deliver a dish that’s both impressive and comforting.
- 1 pound pizza dough: Whether homemade or store-bought, this forms the sturdy but tender base that holds all the delicious fillings together.
- 1/2 cup marinara or pizza sauce: Adds a tangy, tomatoey moisture that keeps the stromboli from being dry and amps up the classic pizza flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The melty, stretchy star of the show, mozzarella brings that signature pizza cheesiness you crave.
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni or deli ham: Offers that savory, slightly spicy kick — but feel free to switch it up to your favorite cured meats.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top of the inner layer for an extra punch of nutty, salty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings an herby aroma reminiscent of traditional Italian pizza seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle warmth and depth that rounds out the savory profile perfectly.
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Brushed on the outside to create that shiny, golden crust that looks as good as it tastes.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): For a fresh, vibrant garnish that adds color and a little herbal brightness.
- Olive oil or nonstick spray for greasing: Keeps your baking surface slick so your stromboli bakes evenly without sticking.
How to Make Homemade Stromboli Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Surface and Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and greasing a baking sheet or lining it with parchment paper. Roll out your pizza dough into a roughly 10 by 14-inch rectangle — think of this as your blank canvas ready to be loaded with all the delicious fillings.
Step 2: Layer the Sauce and Cheese
Spread a thin, even layer of marinara sauce across the dough, leaving about an inch of space around the edges to help seal the stromboli later. Then shower the sauce with shredded mozzarella, making sure every bite will have plenty of melty cheese goodness.
Step 3: Add Meats and Seasonings
Scatter the sliced pepperoni or deli ham evenly over the cheese layer. Follow up with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan, dried oregano, and garlic powder for that irresistible blend of flavors.
Step 4: Roll It Up Tight
Carefully roll the dough from the long side into a tight log, sealing the edges and ends by pinching them closed so nothing escapes during baking. Place your stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet — this helps it hold together as it bakes.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Venting
Brush the top of your stromboli generously with the beaten egg to ensure a golden, glossy crust. Then use a sharp knife to make 3 or 4 small slits on top — this allows steam to escape so your stromboli doesn’t get soggy inside.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop your stromboli into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the fillings are bubbly and cooked through. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep all those delicious juices locked inside.
How to Serve Homemade Stromboli Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a lovely visual pop and a refreshing herbal note that balances the richness of the cheese and meat inside. You can also offer extra Parmesan on the side for guests who want a little more cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
This stromboli pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette or a bowl of warm marinara sauce for dipping. Roasted veggies or a light soup can also round out the meal without competing with the main star.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut into thick, hearty slices and serve on a wooden board alongside ramekins of marinara for dipping. You can also slice smaller pieces for appetizer platters or wrap individual slices in parchment for a grab-and-go lunch option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover stromboli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat for a quick savory snack or light meal.
Freezing
To make your life easier, wrap the fully assembled but unbaked stromboli tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. When it’s time to enjoy, bake it straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to bring back the crispy crust and melty cheese. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it might make the crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this Homemade Stromboli Recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for its meltability, you can experiment with provolone, fontina, or even sharp cheddar for different flavor profiles. Just be mindful of moisture content to avoid sogginess.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap out the meats for sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or olives. You’ll still get a delicious, filling stromboli packed with flavor.
Can I prepare the stromboli ahead of time before baking?
Definitely. You can assemble your stromboli and keep it covered in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just bring it to room temperature before popping it in the oven for even cooking.
What if my dough is too sticky or tearing when rolling?
Lightly flour your rolling surface and hands to prevent sticking. If the dough tears, simply pinch it back together gently. Overworking dough can make it tough, so try to handle it with care.
How do I know when the stromboli is fully cooked?
The crust should be a deep golden brown and firm to the touch. You’ll also notice bubbling sauce near the slits and melted cheese inside. If needed, insert a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe eating.
Final Thoughts
Making this Homemade Stromboli Recipe is like giving yourself a warm hug on a plate — it’s comforting, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Whether you stick to the classic pepperoni and cheese or add your own twist, this recipe promises delicious, crowd-pleasing results every time. So grab your dough, roll it up, and enjoy a slice of pure homemade happiness!
Print
Homemade Stromboli Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 slices
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
This homemade Stromboli recipe features a deliciously stuffed pizza dough rolled tight with marinara sauce, mozzarella, pepperoni or ham, Parmesan, and herbs. Baked to a golden crust and served with extra sauce for dipping, it makes for a perfect Italian-American main course that’s satisfying and easily customizable with your favorite fillings.
Ingredients
Stromboli Dough and Sauce
- 1 pound pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup marinara or pizza sauce
Fillings
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni or deli ham
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Finishing
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Olive oil or nonstick spray for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil or nonstick spray, or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Roll Out Dough: Roll the pizza dough into a large rectangle approximately 10×14 inches on a floured surface to prevent sticking. Try to keep edges even for a uniform roll.
- Spread Sauce: Evenly spread a thin layer of marinara or pizza sauce over the rolled dough, leaving a 1-inch border around all edges to help seal the Stromboli.
- Add Fillings: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. Distribute the sliced pepperoni or deli ham over the cheese, then top with grated Parmesan, dried oregano, and garlic powder for added flavor.
- Roll and Seal: Starting from the long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log shape. Pinch the seam and ends firmly to seal so fillings don’t leak during baking.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the Stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the entire top with the beaten egg wash to promote a golden, glossy crust.
- Vent the Dough: Use a sharp knife to make 3 to 4 small slits on top of the dough to allow steam to escape while baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the Stromboli is cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the Stromboli to cool slightly on a rack for a few minutes before slicing into 6 pieces. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Feel free to customize your Stromboli fillings with sautéed vegetables, cooked sausage, or different cheeses to suit your taste.
- Avoid overfilling the dough to prevent the fillings from leaking out during baking.
- For a crisper crust, bake the Stromboli directly on a preheated pizza stone instead of a baking sheet.
