Name: Stromboli Recipe: Cheesy and Italian-Inspired
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 105 min
Ingredients: Dough:; 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast; 1 cup warm water (110°F); 1 tbsp sugar; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp kosher salt; 2 tbsp olive oil; Filling:; 1 cup marinara sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 4 oz pepperoni slices; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Topping:; 1 egg (beaten); 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese; Optional: Fresh basil (marinara sauce); Suggested Pairings: Red wine (Caesar salad)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Stromboli is a cheesy, Italian-inspired main dish or appetizer, perfect for family gatherings, game nights, or casual dinners. This hearty rolled pizza, filled with pepperoni, mozzarella, and Italian seasonings, delivers bold, savory flavors with a golden, crispy crust. Presented on a white ceramic platter or wooden board, optionally garnished with fresh basil or served with a side of marinara sauce, this Stromboli recipe offers a rustic, inviting aesthetic that elevates any meal. This recipe provides a simple homemade version with accessible ingredients, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing dish that brings classic, Italian-American charm to any table.

Ingredients

For the Stromboli:

Dough:

2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 cup warm water (110°F)
1 tbsp sugar
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp kosher salt
2 tbsp olive oil

Filling:

1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for dipping)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
4 oz pepperoni slices (about 40 slices)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Topping:

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

For Serving:

Optional: Fresh basil, marinara sauce
Suggested Accompaniments: Caesar salad, garlic bread
Suggested Pairings: Red wine, sparkling water
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic platter or wooden board
Suggested Equipment: Mixing bowl, rolling pin, baking sheet, parchment paper, measuring cups/spoons, pastry brush, knife

Step-by-Step Process

Make Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine yeast, warm water, and sugar; let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled.
Prep Filling: In a small bowl, mix marinara sauce with oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust with a pinch of salt or sugar to ensure a balanced flavor.
Roll Dough: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). On a floured surface, roll dough into a 12×16-inch rectangle.
Assemble Stromboli: Spread 1/2 cup marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Layer mozzarella, pepperoni, and Parmesan evenly. Taste a small amount of the filling seasonings (e.g., sprinkle extra oregano on a small cheese portion) to ensure a balanced, savory flavor; adjust if needed.
Roll and Seal: Starting from a long side, tightly roll the dough into a log, tucking in ends. Place seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with Italian seasoning and Parmesan.
Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and crispy. Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
Serve: Slice into 8 pieces and present on a white ceramic platter or wooden board. Optionally garnish with fresh basil and serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping. Pair with Caesar salad, garlic bread, red wine, or sparkling water.

Tips for Better Stromboli

Use warm (not hot) water for yeast to ensure proper activation.
Taste and adjust the sauce or filling seasonings before assembling to balance savory and spicy flavors.
Roll the dough evenly to prevent tearing and ensure uniform baking.
Seal the edges tightly to keep filling from leaking during baking.
Present on a white ceramic platter or wooden board to highlight the golden crust and cheesy filling.
Make ahead: Prepare dough and refrigerate up to 1 day; assemble and bake when ready.
Brush with egg wash for a shiny, professional finish.
Enhance aesthetic: Garnish with basil or serve with marinara for a rustic, Italian pop.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Stromboli: Use gluten-free flour blend for dough; ensure marinara is gluten-free.
Vegetarian Stromboli: Replace pepperoni with 1 cup sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
Low-Carb Stromboli: Use a keto-friendly dough (e.g., almond flour-based); reduce marinara to 1/4 cup.
Spicy Stromboli: Add 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes or 4 oz spicy salami to the filling.
Cheesy Stromboli: Add 1/2 cup shredded provolone or cheddar to the filling.
Sausage Stromboli: Replace pepperoni with 1/2 lb cooked Italian sausage.
Pesto Stromboli: Swap marinara for 1/2 cup pesto sauce in the filling.
Vegan Stromboli: Use vegan cheese and replace pepperoni with roasted vegetables; use a water-based wash instead of egg.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to restore crispness.
Freeze baked stromboli (whole or sliced) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
Serve warm for the best cheesy texture and bold flavors.
Use as a main dish or appetizer for gatherings or casual dinners.
Pair with red wine or sparkling water to complement the savory, Italian flavors.
Present on a white ceramic platter or wooden board with garnishes for a rustic, inviting charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 8 servings (1 slice each):

Calories: 380 kcal
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 820mg
Total Carbohydrates: 38g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 16g
Vitamin A: 10% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 8% Daily Value
Calcium: 20% Daily Value
Iron: 15% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (vegetarian options reduce cholesterol). Moderate in calories; hearty and filling.

Conclusion

This Stromboli recipe delivers a cheesy, Italian-inspired main dish or appetizer perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners. It transforms simple ingredients into a bold favorite. Its straightforward preparation and rustic presentation make it a go-to. The melty cheese and savory filling delight with every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing charm.