Stromboli is a delicious Italian-American dish that’s essentially a rolled-up pizza stuffed with a variety of meats, cheeses, and vegetables. It’s perfect for a hearty dinner, game day snack, or any time you want to impress your family or guests with a savory, flavor-packed treat. This guide will walk you through the steps to create a Deluxe Stromboli at home, featuring a blend of meats, cheeses, and veggies wrapped in golden, crispy pizza dough.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for dipping)
- 1/2 pound sliced provolone cheese
- 1/2 pound sliced salami
- 1/2 pound sliced pepperoni
- 1/2 pound sliced ham
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers (drained and sliced)
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately 12×15 inches. The dough should be about 1/4-inch thick.
Step 2: Layer the Fillings
- Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges to help with sealing.
- Layer the provolone cheese slices over the sauce, followed by the salami, pepperoni, and ham.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the meats.
- Add the sliced roasted red peppers and black olives on top of the cheese layers.
- Sprinkle the dried oregano and basil over the top for added flavor.
Step 3: Roll the Stromboli
- Starting from one of the long edges, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, similar to how you would roll a jelly roll. Make sure to roll it evenly to keep the fillings inside.
- Pinch the seams and ends closed to seal the Stromboli. If the dough is sticky, you can dab a little water along the edges to help seal it.
- Place the Stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Apply the Egg Wash
- Brush the beaten egg over the entire surface of the Stromboli. This will give it a beautiful golden-brown color when baked.
- Using a sharp knife, make a few slits on the top of the Stromboli to allow steam to escape during baking.
Step 5: Bake the Stromboli
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the Stromboli is golden brown and cooked through. The crust should be firm and crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let the Stromboli rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
- Slice the Stromboli into 1-inch thick pieces using a sharp knife.
- Serve hot with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Cook’s Notes
- Pizza Dough: If using store-bought dough, let it come to room temperature before rolling it out to make it easier to handle.
- Fillings: Feel free to customize the fillings with your favorite ingredients, such as sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or different types of cheese.
- Sealing the Dough: Be sure to seal the edges well to prevent the fillings from leaking out during baking.
Variations
Vegetarian Stromboli
Replace the meats with a variety of sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, and onions. Add extra cheese for a rich and hearty vegetarian version.
Spicy Stromboli
Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick. You can also use spicy salami or pepperoni to amp up the heat.
BBQ Chicken Stromboli
Swap the marinara sauce for BBQ sauce, and use shredded cooked chicken, cheddar cheese, and red onions for a BBQ twist on the classic Stromboli.
Breakfast Stromboli
Fill the dough with scrambled eggs, cooked bacon or sausage, and cheese for a delicious breakfast version. Serve with salsa or hot sauce on the side.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make the Stromboli ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the Stromboli ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 12 hours before baking. Let it come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Stromboli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
3. Can I freeze Stromboli?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked Stromboli. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
4. What other dipping sauces can I serve with Stromboli?
In addition to marinara sauce, you can serve Stromboli with garlic butter, ranch dressing, or even a spicy aioli.
5. Can I use puff pastry instead of pizza dough?
Yes, puff pastry can be used for a lighter, flakier crust. Roll it out and proceed with the recipe as directed, keeping in mind that baking times may vary slightly.
A Deluxe Stromboli is a crowd-pleaser that’s packed with flavor and easy to make at home. With layers of delicious meats, cheeses, and vegetables wrapped in golden-brown pizza dough, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic ingredients or customize your own filling, this Stromboli is sure to impress. Enjoy it hot, with a side of marinara sauce, and savor every bite of this delicious Italian-American favorite.
