Easy Homemade Italian Stromboli Recipe: A Flavor-Packed Delight

Roll up your taste buds for a mouthwatering italian stromboli that promises pure culinary excitement.

Pizza dough becomes a canvas for delectable fillings waiting to surprise you.

Layers of savory meats, melted cheeses, and aromatic herbs create a delightful symphony of flavors.

Each slice tells a story of traditional Italian craftsmanship and modern kitchen creativity.

No complicated techniques stand between you and this delicious masterpiece.

Mediterranean ingredients dance together, promising a meal that feels like a warm embrace from an Italian kitchen.

Slice, serve, and watch as everyone around the table becomes an instant fan of this irresistible dish.

Why Italian Stromboli Is a Crowd-Pleaser

• Stromboli transforms ordinary ingredients into an exciting dinner that pleases everyone with minimal kitchen effort.
• Uses affordable ingredients like basic dough, common meats, and standard cheeses that most home cooks already have in their kitchen.
• Easily swap meats, cheeses, or herbs to match family preferences or clean out refrigerator leftovers without compromising taste.
• Requires simple rolling and baking skills, making it perfect for beginner cooks wanting to create impressive meals without complex culinary techniques.

Ingredients for a Perfect Italian Stromboli

• Flour: Base for creating the stromboli's soft and chewy foundation.
• Yeast: Essential for helping the dough rise and develop light texture.
• Sugar: Activates yeast and adds subtle sweetness.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor and controls yeast activity.
• Warm Water: Helps combine ingredients and activate yeast.
• Olive Oil: Adds moisture and rich flavor to the dough.

• Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Provide creamy, melty texture and sharp, tangy flavor profiles.

• Marinara Sauce: Classic Italian sauce for adding moisture and rich tomato flavor.
• Meats (Optional): Pepperoni, salami, or ham for protein and savory taste.
• Fresh Herbs: Basil or parsley for bright, aromatic finish.
• Egg: Used for brushing the exterior to create golden, shiny crust.
• Italian Seasoning: Blend of dried herbs for authentic Italian flavor.

Rolling, Filling, and Baking Italian Stromboli

Step 1: Prepare Homemade Dough

In a spacious mixing bowl, blend flour, active dry yeast, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Pour in lukewarm water and extra virgin olive oil, stirring until a soft dough develops. Transfer to a floured surface and knead vigorously for 7-10 minutes until elastic and smooth. Place dough in a greased container, drape with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 60-90 minutes until volume doubles.

Step 2: Warm Up the Oven

Heat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

Gently deflate the risen dough. Roll out on a lightly dusted surface into a rectangular shape approximately 10×14 inches.

Step 4: Layer Delicious Fillings

• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Sliced pepperoni
• Diced ham
• Chopped fresh basil
• Dried Italian herbs

Step 5: Roll and Seal

Carefully roll the dough from the long edge, creating a tight jelly roll shape. Pinch edges to seal and prevent filling from escaping. Position seam-side down on prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Finish and Bake

Brush the exterior with beaten egg. Sprinkle additional Parmesan and Italian seasoning on top. Bake for 22-27 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Allow Stromboli to rest for 5 minutes. Slice into hearty portions. Serve alongside warm marinara sauce for dipping.

Tips for Crust and Flavorful Center

• Customize Dough Texture: Knead the dough thoroughly to develop gluten, ensuring a chewy and tender stromboli crust that holds fillings perfectly.
• Prevent Soggy Filling: Pat meats and cheeses dry before adding to reduce excess moisture and avoid a watery interior during baking.
• Seal Edges Carefully: Pinch and tuck the stromboli's edges tightly to prevent cheese and meat from leaking out during the cooking process.
• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Select premium cured meats, fresh mozzarella, and authentic Parmesan to elevate the overall flavor profile of your stromboli.
• Control Baking Temperature: Watch the stromboli closely during the last few minutes of baking to achieve a golden-brown exterior without burning the crust.

How to Keep Stromboli Fresh and Reheat Easily

• Store leftover Stromboli in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Wrap each slice individually in aluminum foil to maintain moisture and prevent drying.
• Seal cooled Stromboli slices in freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date to track freshness.
• Thaw frozen Stromboli in the refrigerator overnight. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Unwrap and place on a baking sheet, heating for 10-12 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
• For quick reheating, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking to prevent overheating and maintain texture.

Dipping Sauces and Salads That Work with Stromboli

• Choose a bold Chianti or Sangiovese to complement the rich, meaty flavors of the Stromboli, cutting through the cheese and enhancing the Italian ingredients.
• Whip up a crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, which provides a fresh, zesty contrast to the heavy, savory Stromboli, balancing the meal's richness.
• Serve bruschetta with fresh tomatoes and basil as a light starter, preparing the palate with similar Italian flavors and setting the stage for the main Stromboli dish.
• Select a medium-bodied amber ale or Italian-style craft beer that matches the Stromboli's robust profile, offering a malty counterpoint to the cheese and meat fillings.

Flavor and Filling Swaps for Stromboli Lovers

• Vegetarian Stromboli: Replace meats with roasted bell peppers, spinach, sautéed mushrooms, and artichoke hearts. Use plant-based mozzarella for dairy-free option.
• Gluten-Free Stromboli: Swap wheat flour with gluten-free flour blend, ensuring xanthan gum is included for proper texture. Use gluten-free pizza sauce and certified gluten-free toppings.
• Low-Carb Keto Stromboli: Substitute traditional dough with cauliflower or almond flour-based crust. Use high-fat cheeses like provolone and add crispy bacon or salami for protein.
• Mediterranean-Inspired Stromboli: Incorporate feta cheese, sliced olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh oregano. Use Greek-style herbs and swap marinara for olive oil and herb blend.

Italian Stromboli Recipe

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4.7 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Savor the delightful Italian Stromboli, a rolled masterpiece brimming with zesty meats, melted cheeses, and robust herbs. Crisp golden crust and warm, gooey fillings invite you to experience a slice of authentic Italian comfort straight from the oven.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Proteins:

• ½ pound sliced salami
• ½ pound sliced pepperoni
• ½ pound sliced ham or prosciutto

Cheeses:

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Dough and Additional Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet instant dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F / 43°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
• ½ cup chopped fresh basil or parsley

Topping:

• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan
• Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes

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Instructions

1. Craft the homemade dough by blending flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a spacious mixing vessel. Incorporate warm water and olive oil, stirring until a cohesive dough emerges.
2. Transfer the dough onto a lightly dusted work surface and knead vigorously for 6-8 minutes, developing a silky, elastic texture.
3. Nestle the dough into a greased bowl, drape with a clean kitchen towel, and allow it to rise in a warm environment until it doubles in volume, approximately 60-75 minutes.
4. Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Deflate the risen dough and roll it into a rectangular shape, maintaining an even thickness across the surface.
6. Spread a thin, uniform layer of marinara sauce, leaving a narrow perimeter around the edges to prevent leakage.
7. Distribute mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously across the sauced surface.
8. Arrange cured meats evenly, creating a consistent layer of protein.
9. Sprinkle remaining cheese and fresh herbs over the meat layer.
10. Carefully roll the dough from the longest edge, creating a tight cylindrical shape, ensuring fillings remain enclosed.
11. Seal the edges and position the stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
12. Brush the exterior with beaten egg and dust with additional Parmesan and Italian seasoning.
13. Bake for 22-27 minutes until the exterior achieves a rich golden-brown color.
14. Allow the stromboli to rest briefly before slicing into attractive portions.
15. Serve alongside marinara sauce for dipping, enhancing the culinary experience.

Notes

• Choose high-protein bread flour for a chewier, more authentic stromboli texture that holds fillings better.
• Proof the yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar to ensure active fermentation and soft dough rise.
• Avoid overstuffing the stromboli to prevent filling leakage and ensure even baking.
• Rest the rolled stromboli for 10 minutes before baking to help seal the seams and prevent unwrapping during cooking.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute wheat flour with a blend of almond and rice flour, adding xanthan gum for binding.
• Create vegetarian options by replacing meats with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant.
• Use a pizza stone for crispier bottom crust and more even heat distribution.
• Brush with garlic-infused olive oil before baking for extra flavor depth and golden-brown appearance.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 370
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg