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Making Stromboli is easier than you might think, and once you’ve made it once, it will become one of your go-to recipes for quick dinners or fun appetizers. Let’s walk through the process!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the Stromboli from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Roll out the pizza dough onto a flat, lightly floured surface. You want to roll it into a rectangle about 10 x 14 inches in size—this will give you plenty of space for the fillings. If you’re using store-bought dough, it should come ready to roll.
Brush the dough with a thin layer of olive oil to keep it from drying out while baking and to give it a nice golden finish.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Next, spread a layer of shredded mozzarella evenly across the dough, leaving a little space around the edges. Add your chosen meats—pepperoni, salami, or ham work perfectly—on top of the cheese. Sprinkle the parmesan cheese, and then season everything with dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
You can also get creative with other fillings here, such as sautéed mushrooms, green peppers, or even a little bit of ricotta cheese if you’re feeling adventurous!
Step 4: Roll It Up
Carefully roll up the dough, starting from one long edge, like you’re rolling a cinnamon roll. Pinch the edges tightly to seal the Stromboli, ensuring that no cheese or fillings escape during baking.
Once rolled, place the Stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Use a sharp knife to make a few shallow slashes across the top of the dough (this allows steam to escape and helps the Stromboli bake evenly).
Step 5: Bake the Stromboli
Brush the top of the rolled Stromboli with a bit of olive oil to help it brown beautifully in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese inside is bubbling and melted.
If you want extra crispiness, you can broil the Stromboli for the last 2 minutes, but keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the Stromboli is baked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set slightly and makes it easier to cut without making a mess.
Serve the Stromboli with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, if desired. It’s perfect as a main dish, snack, or appetizer.
Tips for the Best Easy Italian Stromboli
- Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to add all kinds of fillings, don’t overstuff the Stromboli. Too much filling can make it hard to roll up, and it may cause the dough to tear or the fillings to spill out during baking.
- Use Fresh Cheese: If possible, opt for fresh mozzarella. It has a creamier texture and richer flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese, but if that’s what you have on hand, it will work just fine!
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the Stromboli ahead of time, roll it up, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before putting it in the oven for even cooking.
- Experiment with Fillings: Stromboli is versatile! You can add ingredients like sausage, bacon, sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even spinach for extra flavor and texture.
- Serve with a Side: Pair your Stromboli with a simple salad, some garlic bread, or even a side of roasted vegetables to make it a complete meal.
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Easy Italian Stromboli
This Easy Italian Stromboli is the ultimate comfort food, combining all the flavors of a pizza but with the convenience of a roll-up that’s easy to make and even easier to eat. It’s a fantastic dish for any occasion—whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a gathering, or just craving something delicious.
With its crispy crust, melted cheese, and savory filling, it’s sure to become a regular recipe in your dinner rotation. The best part? You can make it your own by adding your favorite pizza toppings, making it endlessly customizable and perfect for everyone at the table.
Give this recipe a try—you’ll be hooked after just one bite!
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