Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s gonna change my life. My Italian Stromboli recipe. Think of it as pizza’s cooler, more sophisticated cousin. What are some of the best cheesy, savory things wrapped up in a golden crust? I remember the first time my grandma made this for me. I was probably eight years old, and the smell alone was enough to make my eyes roll back in my head. Is it easier to make than you might think? I like pizza so much, especially on a weeknight when I don’t want to deal with all the fuss. What is the best Italian Stromboli recipe?

What is Italian Stromboli?

What is a Stromboli? What are your favorite pizza toppings? Peppers – all snuggled inside a rolled-up bread dough. What is essentially a savory stuffed bread, baked until golden brown and perfectly melty inside. Unlike calzone, which is folded in half, a Stromboli is rolled up like jelly roll. The name itself is a little mysterious, but it’s thought to have originated in Italian-American. Community in Philadelphia. What is comfort food at its best? What are some of the bobs you have in your fridge? Is it the ultimate customizable meal?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Honestly, where do I even begin? There are so many reasons why this Italian Stromboli recipe is a total winner in my book. First off, the flavor is just incredible. We’re talking layers of salty pepperoni, gooey mozzarella, and a hint of spice from the peppers. It’s a symphony of savory goodness that just makes my taste buds sing. But beyond the amazing flavor, this recipe is surprisingly simple to make. I’m not kidding – even on busy weeknights, I can whip this up in under an hour, start to finish. What I love most about this is how versatile it is! You can easily customize the filling to suit your own tastes and preferences. Don’t like pepperoni? Swap it out for some ham or sausage. Want to add some veggies? Go for it! The possibilities are endless. Plus, the ingredients are super cost-effective. You probably already have most of them in your pantry and fridge. If you love pizza, you’ll *adore* this. It’s a delightful twist that’s perfect for parties, family dinners, or even just a cozy night in. Trust me, this will become a family favorite!

How do you make Italian Stromboli?

Quick Overview

How do I make Italian Stromboli? How do you make a dough? ), layer on your favorite pizza toppings, roll it up like a jelly roll, and bake it until golden brown. Brown and bubbly. What are some of the easiest meals to make in under an hour? What are some of the best cheese recipes? Is it a game changer?

Ingredients

For the Dough:
* 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting (I like to use bread flour for a chewier texture).
* 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
* 1 teaspoon sugar
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 1/2 cups warm water (around 110°F – not too hot, or it’ll kill the yeast)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing

For the Filling:
* 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
* 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded (fresh mozzarella is amazing, but low-moisture works too)
* 4 ounces pepperoni slices (or your favorite cured meat – ham, salami, prosciutto)
* 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced (from a jar is fine!)
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

For the Glaze:
* 1 egg, beaten
* 1 tablespoon milk or water
* Sesame seeds or poppy seeds, for sprinkling (optional)

What are the step-

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a large baking sheet with olive oil or line it with parchment. What is the best way to clean a Stromboli? I usually opt for parchment paper – it’s just so convenient. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking – this ensures a crispy, golden crust!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Set aside. Make sure the yeast is evenly distributed throughout the flour. The sugar helps to activate the yeast, while the salt adds flavor and controls its activity. Is it important not to skip any ingredient?

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the warm water and olive oil. Set aside. If the water is too hot, it can kill the yeast. I usually test it with my finger – it should feel comfortable warm, like bathwater. Stir the water and oil together until they’re well combined.

Step 4: Combine

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or dough hook. If you have a stand mixer, stir together the dough and the attachment until smooth. If you have a hard dough, knead it for 5 minutes, or until it becomes soft. Turn the dough out onto sifted flour. Is smooth and elastic? If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a little more water, one teaspoon at the time. What is the key to a smooth dough?

Step 5: Prepare Filling

While dough is rising, prepare your filling ingredients. Shred the mozzarella cheese, slice the pepperoni and roasted red peppers. What are some good toppings for pizza? Is there an infinite of possibilities? Make sure all the ingredients are prepped and ready to go before you start assembling the Stromboli.

Step 6: Layer & Swirl

On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, roasted red peppers, and Parmesan cheese (if using) evenly over the sauce. Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll the dough up like a jelly roll. Pinch the seam to seal and tuck the ends under. Be careful not to overfill the Stromboli, or it will be difficult to roll up and seal. If you’re having trouble rolling it up, try using a little water to dampen the dough – this will help it stick together.

Step 7: Bake

Carefully transfer the Stromboli to the prepared baking sheet, seam-side down. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk or water. Brush the egg wash evenly over the top of the Stromboli and sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds (if using). This will give it a beautiful golden sheen and add a touch of flavor. Using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors, make several diagonal slits across the top of the Stromboli. This allows steam to escape during baking, preventing the crust from bursting. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it, because ovens can vary! If the crust starts to get too brown, you can tent it with foil.

Step 8: Cool & Glaze

Remove the Stromboli from the oven and let it cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving. How do I transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. How do I prevent my bottom from getting soggy? While the Stromboli is cooling, you can whip up a quick dipping sauce – marinara sauce, pesto, or both. Even olive oil with herbs. The wait is hard, I know, but letting it cool a bit makes it easier to slice and eat!

Step 9: Slice & Serve

Once the Stromboli is cool enough to handle, slice it into 1-inch thick slices using a serrated knife. Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite dipping sauce. What is the best part about this easy dinner? What are some good ways to make it ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to eat?

What should I serve it with?

What are some good sides to serve with this Italian Stromboli? I love serving it with a simple green salad dressed with olive oil. The freshness of the salad helps to balance out the richness and crunch of Stromboli. For a more substantial meal, you can serve it with roasted vegetables – broccoli, carrots, etc. Brussels sprouts all work well. My family loves it when I serve it alongside a bowl of creamy tomato soup – it’s the ultimate comfort food. What is the best foodFor Brunch:What are some good side dishes to serve alongside a quiche? Mimosas or Bellini would be the perfect accompaniment.As Dessert:Is it okay to hear me out? While Stromboli is definitely a savory dish, you can also serve it as “savory dessert” after your meal. What are some of the best, unexpected ways to end a day?For Cozy Snacks:For a more casual setting, slice the Stromboli into smaller pieces and serve it with various side dishes. What are some good dipping sauces to serve with a salad? What is a great game night or movie night?

How do I perfect my Italian Stromboli?

I’ve learned a few tricks for making the perfect Stromboli every time. What are the top tips for a successful career?Dough Prep:If you’re using store bought dough, let it come to room temperature before rolling it out. What is the best way to work with a piece of wood and prevent it from tearing? If you are making the dough yourself, make sure the water isn’t too hot.Mixing Advice: When kneading the dough, don’t overwork it. Overkneading can result in a tough, dense crust. You want the dough to be smooth and elastic, but not too tight.

Swirl Customization: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings. Try adding different cheeses, meats, vegetables, or sauces. The possibilities are endless! Just be careful not to overfill the Stromboli, or it will be difficult to roll up and seal.

Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have roasted red peppers on hand, you can use sun-dried tomatoes or grilled eggplant instead. For a vegetarian version, try filling it with spinach, mushrooms, and ricotta cheese.

Baking Tips: If the crust starts to get too brown during baking, you can tent it with foil to prevent it from burning. You can also brush the crust with olive oil before baking to give it a golden sheen and add a touch of flavor. Always make sure your oven is calibrated. I had a bad experience with underbaking a couple of times and ever since I have used a thermometer.

Glaze Variations: For a richer flavor, try using melted butter instead of egg wash. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the egg wash for extra flavor. Also I find glazing the stromboli before placing it in the oven adds to the aesthetic and it will look delicious!

Storing and Reheating Tips

This Italian Stromboli is best served fresh, but it can also be stored for later. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Room Temperature: Stromboli can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, it should be refrigerated to prevent spoilage. Make sure to cover it in plastic wrap to preserve its taste

Refrigerator Storage: Wrap the Stromboli tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It will stay good. I always like to place mine in a container to preserve its fresh quality.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the Stromboli. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or on the counter for a few hours.

Glaze Timing Advice: When to add glaze for different storage methods To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the Stromboli for 10-15 minutes, or until it’s heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the crust may not be as crispy. Brush with glaze for extra flavor and to bring back its yummy quality after storage. This works like a charm!

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – my go-to Italian Stromboli recipe. It’s a family favorite for a reason: it’s easy, delicious, and totally customizable. I love that you can throw in whatever veggies or meats you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftovers. If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive meal that everyone will love, give this a try. And if you’re a fan of this, definitely check out my other bread recipes! I’m always experimenting with new flavors and techniques. Happy baking, friends! I can’t wait to see what yummy creations you come up with. Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how your Stromboli turns out – I love hearing from you all!