If you’re craving a hearty, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious dish, this Homemade Stromboli recipe is exactly what you need. Perfect for a family dinner, party appetizer, or game-day snack, stromboli is a rolled-up version of your favorite pizza. With its golden-brown crust, gooey cheese, and flavorful fillings, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easier to make than you think.
This recipe walks you through creating the perfect stromboli from scratch, including tips for customizing it with your favorite fillings. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe guarantees impressive results.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Filling:
- 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 6 ounces deli ham, thinly sliced
- 6 ounces pepperoni slices
- 1 cup marinara sauce (optional, for dipping)
For Topping:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Mix well.
Add warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until the dough comes together.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 7–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat Your Oven:Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll Out the Dough:Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, approximately 10×14 inches.
- Assemble the Stromboli:Evenly spread the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
Layer the ham and pepperoni on top of the cheese.
Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seams and ends to seal.
- Prepare for Baking:Transfer the stromboli to the prepared baking sheet, seam-side down. Brush the top with beaten egg.
Sprinkle Italian seasoning and grated Parmesan over the top for added flavor.
- Bake to Perfection:Bake the stromboli in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.
Remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve and Enjoy:Slice the stromboli into 1-inch thick pieces and serve with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Tips for the Best Homemade Stromboli
- Use Fresh Dough: While store-bought pizza dough is convenient, making your own from scratch elevates the flavor and texture.
- Avoid Overfilling: Too many fillings can make the stromboli difficult to roll and lead to leaks during baking. Stick to the recommended amounts.
- Vent the Stromboli: Before baking, cut small slits on top to allow steam to escape, preventing a soggy crust.
- Cool Before Slicing: Allowing the stromboli to cool slightly ensures clean, even slices without the cheese spilling out.
Creative Filling Ideas
- Vegetarian: Use sautéed spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, and mozzarella.
- Meat Lover’s: Include salami, sausage, bacon, and pepperoni for a protein-packed version.
- Cheese Explosion: Try a mix of mozzarella, ricotta, and provolone for extra creaminess.
- Mediterranean: Fill with feta cheese, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach.
FAQs
- Can I freeze stromboli?
- Yes! Assemble the stromboli but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Absolutely! Use a gluten-free pizza dough or flour blend to make a gluten-free version of stromboli.
- What’s the difference between stromboli and calzone?
- While both are stuffed with similar ingredients, stromboli is rolled into a log and sliced, whereas calzones are folded into a half-moon shape and sealed.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftover stromboli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes for the best results.
- Can I use puff pastry for stromboli?
- Yes, puff pastry can be used for a lighter, flakier crust. Keep in mind the baking time may be shorter.
Conclusion
This Homemade Stromboli recipe is a true delight, offering endless opportunities for customization. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or simply indulging in comfort food, stromboli is a versatile dish that never disappoints. Roll it up, bake it to golden perfection, and enjoy every cheesy, savory bite with your favorite dipping sauce.