Recreate the delicious taste of Sbarro’s famous Pepperoni Stromboli right in your kitchen with this detailed recipe. This indulgent dish features a homemade pizza dough stuffed with gooey mozzarella cheese and savory pepperoni, rolled up and baked to perfection. Serve it with a side of marinara sauce for a meal that’s sure to satisfy your pizza cravings. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
For the Pizza Dough:
- 2 cups plus 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour, extra for rolling
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 3/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 cup lukewarm water
For Assembly:
- 1 lb. pizza dough (from above recipe or store-bought)
- 1/3 cup finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- 4 cups whole milk mozzarella, grated
- 6 oz thinly sliced pepperoni
- 1 egg yolk, beaten
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- 1 (15.5 oz) jar marinara sauce (e.g., Rao’s), warmed for serving
Instructions:
Making the Pizza Dough:
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in the lukewarm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and sea salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
- Let it Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Assembling the Stromboli:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Roll out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, about 10×14 inches in size.
- Layer the Fillings: Sprinkle the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Layer the grated mozzarella cheese on top, followed by the thinly sliced pepperoni.
- Roll it Up: Starting from one of the long edges, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seams and ends to seal the stromboli.
- Egg Wash and Sesame Seeds: In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg yolk and water to create an egg wash. Brush the egg wash over the top and sides of the stromboli. Sprinkle the sesame seeds evenly over the top.
- Bake: Transfer the stromboli to the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Let the stromboli cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a side of warmed marinara sauce for dipping.
Cook’s Notes:
- Make sure to roll the dough tightly to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
- For extra flavor, you can sprinkle a bit of Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes on the cheese before rolling up the dough.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Stromboli: Replace the pepperoni with sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach.
- Meat Lover’s Stromboli: Add additional meats like ham, salami, or cooked sausage along with the pepperoni.
- Cheese Lover’s Stromboli: Increase the amount of cheese and add different varieties such as provolone or cheddar for a super cheesy version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough? Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough works great for this recipe if you’re short on time. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
2. Can I freeze the stromboli? Yes, you can freeze the assembled stromboli before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
3. Can I make mini strombolis? Yes, you can divide the dough into smaller portions and make individual mini strombolis. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as they will cook faster than a large stromboli.
4. How do I prevent the stromboli from becoming soggy? Ensure the fillings are not too wet and avoid overfilling the stromboli. Rolling the dough tightly and sealing the edges well also helps prevent sogginess.
5. What can I serve with stromboli? Stromboli pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Bring the taste of your favorite pizzeria home with this Copycat Sbarro Pepperoni Stromboli recipe. With its crispy crust, gooey cheese, and savory pepperoni, it’s a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game night, enjoying a family dinner, or simply craving a hearty snack, this stromboli is sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a homemade version of this pizzeria classic!
