If you’ve ever craved a warm, cheesy, savory treat that’s packed with Italian flavors yet so easy to bring together at home, this Homemade Stromboli Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful blend of stretchy mozzarella, zesty pepperoni, and supple pizza dough rolled into a golden, crisp crust that’s perfect for any occasion. From the first bite, you’ll be hooked by the combination of gooey cheese and robust herbs wrapped in a perfectly baked exterior. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or indulging in a cozy solo night, this recipe delivers comfort and excitement in every slice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to crafting a delicious stromboli, and luckily, all you need are familiar, straightforward staples that come together beautifully. Each component plays a role in layering flavors and textures—from the chewy dough to the melty cheese and the sharp, savory pepperoni. Optional vegetables and a touch of herbs elevate the dish without overwhelming it.
- 1 pound pizza dough: Choose store-bought for convenience or homemade for extra flavor and a personal touch.
- 1/2 cup marinara or pizza sauce: Adds a tangy, rich base that keeps the stromboli moist and flavorful.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey heart of the stromboli that melts beautifully.
- 6 ounces thinly sliced pepperoni or salami: Brings a spicy, savory kick that defines the dish.
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (optional): For a pop of color and subtle sweetness.
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional): Offers briny depth and decorative contrast.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs: A fragrant mix that infuses the whole stromboli with classic Italian aromas.
- 1 egg beaten for egg wash: Ensures a glossy, golden crust that’s as appetizing as it is delicious.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps create that perfect crust edge.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional): Gives a subtle garlic background note without overpowering.
How to Make Homemade Stromboli Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface into a neat rectangle about 12 by 10 inches. This provides the perfect canvas to assemble your stromboli layers, ensuring even cooking and a well-packed filling.
Step 2: Layer Your Filling
Spread a thin, even layer of marinara sauce over the dough, stopping about an inch from the edges to prevent leaks. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella all over the saucy surface because cheese is essential in binding the flavors inside. Next, layer the pepperoni slices evenly, followed by any optional bell peppers and olives if you’re using them. Finally, sprinkle the dried Italian herbs and a pinch of garlic powder to infuse lovely herbaceous hints throughout.
Step 3: Roll and Seal
Carefully lift one long edge of the dough and roll it lengthwise, gently tucking ingredients inside as you go. Pinch the edges firmly to seal the stromboli, making sure nothing escapes during baking. This step creates that iconic tubular shape, locking in all those mouthwatering flavors.
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
Place the rolled stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the entire top with the beaten egg wash—it helps achieve that brilliant golden color. Drizzle with olive oil for a touch of richness, and don’t forget to score a few small slits on top so steam can escape during baking, keeping your stromboli from becoming soggy.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Pop your stromboli into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the crust turns a gorgeous golden brown and the cheese inside is melty and bubbling. Once out of the oven, let it rest for about five minutes; this resting period helps the filling set so your slices hold together beautifully.
How to Serve Homemade Stromboli Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your stromboli presentation with fresh garnishes like a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or oregano. A nice grind of black pepper or a dusting of Parmesan cheese can add an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal that makes every bite feel special.
Side Dishes
Pair your stromboli with classic Italian sides, such as a crisp Caesar salad or a simple mixed green salad with balsamic vinaigrette. For heartier options, a bowl of minestrone soup or garlic-roasted vegetables complements the warm, cheesy power of the stromboli beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing your stromboli into smaller, appetizer-sized rolls for parties or game day snacks. You can also serve it with an array of dipping sauces like spicy marinara, garlic aioli, or a zesty ranch to keep things fun and interactive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover stromboli keeps well when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it a fantastic option for quick lunches or busy weeknight dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze the stromboli before or after baking. Wrap it well in foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, and keep it in the freezer for up to two months. This way, a homemade miracle is always on hand when hunger strikes unexpectedly.
Reheating
To retain the crispiness, reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want the crust to stay delightfully crunchy and the filling warm and melty.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of mozzarella?
Absolutely! Provolone or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar can add interesting flavors, though mozzarella remains ideal for that classic, gooey melt and mild taste.
Is it necessary to use egg wash?
Egg wash gives the stromboli a shiny, golden crust that looks as delicious as it tastes, but if you prefer, olive oil alone can provide a lovely finish.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the pepperoni or salami and load up on vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and artichokes. You’ll still get plenty of flavor and satisfying texture.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky to roll out?
Lightly flour your work surface and hands before handling the dough, and try to avoid adding too much flour at once to keep the dough tender but manageable.
How do I prevent the stromboli from leaking filling during baking?
Make sure to leave a border around the edges when spreading sauce and fillings, and pinch the dough edges tightly when sealing. Baking seam-side down also helps keep everything inside.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Stromboli Recipe is such a comforting crowd-pleaser, combining the best elements of pizza and savory rolls into one irresistible package. I hope you embrace the joy of making it yourself, customize it with your favorite fillings, and savor every cheesy, herb-infused bite. It’s a dish that effortlessly brings people together, turning any meal into a celebration of flavors and good company.
Print
Homemade Stromboli Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This homemade stromboli recipe features a delicious rolled pizza filled with mozzarella, pepperoni, and optional vegetables. It’s baked to golden perfection with a crisp crust and served warm with marinara sauce for dipping, making it a perfect Italian-American main course for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Stromboli Dough and Sauce
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup marinara or pizza sauce
Fillings
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6 ounces thinly sliced pepperoni or salami
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (optional)
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
Seasonings and Finishing
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten for egg wash
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Roll Out Dough. Roll the pizza dough into a large rectangle approximately 12 by 10 inches on a floured surface to create an even base for the stromboli filling.
- Apply Sauce and Layer Fillings. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. Then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, followed by the pepperoni slices and any optional vegetables like bell peppers and olives.
- Season the Filling. Sprinkle dried Italian herbs and optional garlic powder over the layered ingredients to enhance the flavor profile.
- Roll and Seal. Carefully roll the dough lengthwise to tightly enclose the filling, sealing the edges by pinching the dough together to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
- Prepare for Baking. Place the stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the top with the beaten egg wash to achieve a golden shine and drizzle evenly with olive oil for added crispness.
- Score the Top. Using a sharp knife, cut a few small slits into the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking, preventing sogginess.
- 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. Let the stromboli cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- For a crispier crust, bake the stromboli on a preheated pizza stone instead of a baking sheet.
- Customize the filling by adding cooked sausage, ham, spinach, or mushrooms to suit your taste preferences.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
