Italian Stromboli Recipe
If you’re craving a warm, cheesy, and totally satisfying meal that feels like a hug on a plate, you can’t go wrong with this Italian Stromboli. It’s a delightful roll-up packed with layers of savory ham, spicy pepperoni, and melty mozzarella cheese, all wrapped inside a tender pizza crust. The magic really happens when those flavors mingle in the oven and the outside crisps up golden brown. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this Italian Stromboli is bound to become one of your favorite go-to recipes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but all play an essential role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in your Italian Stromboli. From the rich cheeses to the variety of delicious meats and the fragrant Italian seasoning, every item is there for a reason.
- Refrigerated Pizza Crust (about 13 oz): Provides a soft yet crispy base that holds all the delicious fillings together perfectly.
- Pizza Sauce: Adds a tangy, savory layer that keeps the Stromboli moist and flavorful inside.
- Thinly Sliced Deli Ham (1/4 lb): Brings a mild, slightly sweet meatiness that complements the pepperoni and salami.
- Sliced Deli Salami (1/4 lb): Adds a savory, slightly spiced bite that lifts the entire flavor profile.
- Sliced Deli Pepperoni (1/4 lb): Introduces that classic zesty kick and a bit of smoky heat.
- Grated Mozzarella Cheese (3 cups): Melts beautifully, offering gooey, creamy richness throughout the Stromboli.
- Italian Seasoning (1 tsp): A blend of herbs that infuses the Stromboli with aromatic, Italian-inspired goodness.
- Butter, melted (2 tbsp): Brushed on top to create a golden, crispy crust with a hint of richness.
- Garlic Powder: Sprinkled on top to add a fragrant punch that enhances every bite.
- Dried Parsley: A touch of green that adds a subtle fresh flavor and a lovely visual finish.
How to Make Italian Stromboli
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures the oven is hot enough to create that wonderful crispy exterior while melting all the cheese inside just right. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough and Sauce It
Unroll the refrigerated pizza crust onto the lined baking sheet and gently stretch it out if needed. Brush the surface with about 1/4 cup of pizza sauce. This not only prevents the dough from getting soggy but also infuses each bite with that signature tomato flavor.
Step 3: Layer the Meats and Cheese
This is where the magic starts! Begin with a layer of ham, then sprinkle a cup of mozzarella cheese over it. Follow with the salami, a bit more cheese, then the pepperoni, and the final cup of cheese. Finish by sprinkling the Italian seasoning evenly across the top to ensure every slice bursts with herbal aroma.
Step 4: Roll and Seal
Carefully roll up the dough from one edge, enclosing all the delicious fillings inside. Make sure to pinch the seams tightly so none of that melty goodness slips out during baking.
Step 5: Butter and Season the Crust
Brush the outside of the Stromboli with the melted butter—this step is key to achieving a golden, crispy crust. Then sprinkle garlic powder and dried parsley on top for a burst of flavor and a beautiful finish. Cut a few slits on top to let steam escape and avoid sogginess.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and crispy. The filling will be sizzling hot and the cheese deliciously melted inside.
Step 7: Rest before Slicing
Once baked, let your Italian Stromboli sit for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the cheese to set so that when you slice it, the stuffing stays neatly inside, making for clean cuts and less mess.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Slice your Stromboli into thick pieces and serve it alongside warmed pizza sauce for dipping. This classic touch elevates every bite with an extra layer of flavor.
How to Serve Italian Stromboli
Garnishes
To enhance the presentation and taste, garnish your Italian Stromboli with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a handful of fresh basil leaves. These add brightness and a fresh herbal note that beautifully balances the richness of the meats and cheeses.
Side Dishes
Pairing your Stromboli with crisp Caesar salad or a light arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette makes for a well-rounded meal. Roasted vegetables or a simple garlic bread can also complement the hearty flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not turn your Italian Stromboli into handheld sliders for a party? Slice into smaller portions and serve with individual dipping cups of marinara sauce. Or use colorful plates and scatter fresh herbs around the edges for a festive, inviting look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Italian Stromboli, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually develop more after resting overnight, making for a tasty next-day treat.
Freezing
Italian Stromboli freezes beautifully! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing to preserve freshness. When you’re ready, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat to enjoy that fresh-baked taste anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, pop your Stromboli in a 350-degree oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the crust regains its crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep that lovely texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of refrigerated crust?
Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough works wonderfully and adds a personalized touch. Just roll it out to the same size and follow the recipe as usual.
Is Italian Stromboli the same as a calzone?
Not quite. While both are filled doughs, Stromboli is rolled in a log shape and often sliced before serving, whereas a calzone is folded in half and sealed like a turnover.
Can I add vegetables to the Italian Stromboli?
Yes, feel free to add sautéed peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture. Just be careful not to overload it or the dough may get soggy.
What is the best cheese to use?
Mozzarella is the traditional choice for its meltiness, but mixing in provolone or Parmesan can add great depth and flavor.
How long does Italian Stromboli keep in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, it will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days and remains delicious when reheated.
Final Thoughts
Italian Stromboli is such a treat—simple ingredients transformed into something truly comforting and impressive. Give this recipe a try, and I promise it will quickly become a beloved favorite in your home, perfect for dinner nights or casual gatherings. It’s warm, delicious, and full of personality, just like sharing good food with good friends.
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Italian Stromboli Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This classic Italian Stromboli features a crispy pizza crust enveloping layers of savory deli meats and melted mozzarella cheese, seasoned with Italian herbs and garlic. Perfect as a hearty appetizer or main dish, it’s served warm with a side of pizza sauce for dipping, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pizza Base
- 1 Refrigerated Pizza Crust (about 13 oz)
- 1/4 cup Pizza Sauce (for spreading)
Meat Layers
- 1/4 lb Thinly Sliced Deli Ham
- 1/4 lb Sliced Deli Salami
- 1/4 lb Sliced Deli Pepperoni
Cheese
- 3 Cups Grated Mozzarella Cheese
Seasonings and Toppings
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
- 2 tbsp Butter, melted
- Garlic Powder, to taste
- Dried Parsley, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the stromboli.
- Prepare Pizza Crust: Roll out the refrigerated pizza crust onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then brush evenly with 1/4 cup of the pizza sauce to create a flavorful base.
- Layer Ingredients: Begin layering by spreading thinly sliced ham over the sauce, followed by 1 cup of grated mozzarella cheese. Repeat by adding a layer of salami with another cup of cheese, then a layer of pepperoni topped with the remaining cheese. Sprinkle the entire surface with Italian seasoning for an extra burst of flavor.
- Roll and Seal: Carefully roll the crust into a tight log shape, ensuring all the deli meat and cheese layers are enclosed. Pinch the seams firmly to seal the stromboli so that no filling escapes during baking.
- Add Toppings: Brush the entire top of the stromboli with melted butter. Then, sprinkle garlic powder and dried parsley evenly over the surface. Cut several slits on top to allow steam to escape while baking.
- Bake: Place the stromboli in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and crispy.
- Rest: Remove the stromboli from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the cheese to set so it won’t spill out when slicing.
- Serve: Slice the stromboli into portions and serve warm, accompanied by warmed pizza sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Use a sharp knife to cut the stromboli after resting to get clean slices.
- You can customize filling by adding sautéed vegetables or different cheeses for variations.
- Make sure to pinch the seams well to avoid leaks during baking.
- Leftover stromboli can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/6 of stromboli)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: Italian Stromboli, pizza crust, deli meats, mozzarella cheese, baked Stromboli, Italian appetizer, pizza roll
