Italian Stromboli

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a warm, golden Stromboli stuffed with melty cheese, savory meats, and flavorful herbs. Italian Stromboli is the kind of comfort food that brings people together, whether you’re slicing it up for game day, feeding a crowd, or just want something hearty and satisfying for dinner.

With its origins tied to Italian-American cuisine, this rolled-up bundle of deliciousness takes everything we love about pizza and tucks it into a crisp crust. The beauty of Stromboli is its versatility. You can go classic with ham and provolone, or throw in pepperoni, sausage, and veggies for your own signature spin. Either way, the result is always golden, cheesy perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Stromboli

This recipe is all about ease and indulgence. You get the cozy flavors of a pizza in a fun, sliceable roll. It comes together quickly with store-bought or homemade dough, and it’s baked until perfectly crisp outside and gooey inside. Plus, it slices beautifully, making it ideal for sharing.

Italian Stromboli is also freezer-friendly and travels well, so it’s perfect for meal prep or making ahead for parties. Serve it with marinara on the side and watch it disappear in minutes. You’ll love how simple the process is, even if you’re not a seasoned baker.

What Kind of Dough Should I Use for Stromboli?

Pizza dough is your best friend here. Whether you opt for a pre-made refrigerated dough from the store or make your own from scratch, just make sure it’s stretchy and not too thick. Stromboli works best with dough that’s easy to roll out and strong enough to hold all the fillings without tearing.

If you’re in a pinch, some people use crescent roll dough or puff pastry, but traditional pizza dough will give you that chewy, crisp crust that sets a classic Stromboli apart. Let the dough rest at room temperature before rolling it out—it’ll be more pliable and easier to handle.

Ingredients for the Italian Stromboli

The ingredients for Italian Stromboli are wonderfully simple, but every element plays a key role. From the crust to the fillings, each bite layers flavor and texture to create the perfect savory roll. Here’s what you need:

• Pizza dough: This is the foundation. A soft, elastic dough gives you that perfect chew and golden exterior.
• Deli meats: Classic Stromboli usually includes ham, salami, and pepperoni, each adding layers of spice and savory flavor.
• Cheese: Use provolone or mozzarella, or a mix of both for that perfect melt and stretch.
• Italian seasoning: A sprinkle of Italian herbs elevates the flavor with a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme.
• Olive oil: Brushing the dough with olive oil before baking helps create a golden, crisp crust.
• Egg wash: An optional egg wash makes the top beautifully glossy and helps it brown evenly.
• Marinara sauce: Not baked in, but served on the side for dipping, bringing that tangy, tomato-rich finish.

How To Make the Italian Stromboli

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 10×14 inches. If it’s resisting, let it rest for a few minutes to relax the gluten.

Step 2: Layer the Fillings

Start layering your meats evenly, leaving about an inch from the edges. Follow with slices of provolone or mozzarella, then sprinkle your Italian seasoning across the top. Don’t overfill or it may be hard to roll.

Step 3: Roll It Up

Starting from the long edge, gently roll the dough into a tight log, like a jelly roll. Pinch the seams and ends closed to seal everything in.

Step 4: Brush and Score

Transfer the Stromboli to a baking sheet lined with parchment. Brush the top with olive oil or egg wash, then lightly score the top with a sharp knife to let steam escape.

Step 5: Bake

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 6: Serve

Slice into thick pieces and serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy that cheesy, crispy goodness while it’s hot.

Serving and Storing Your Italian Stromboli

Italian Stromboli is best served warm out of the oven when the cheese is melty and the crust is still crisp. It makes an excellent appetizer, main dish, or party snack. One full Stromboli typically feeds 4 to 6 people, depending on how thick you slice it.

If you have leftovers, simply wrap the slices tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop a slice in the oven or air fryer at 350°F until warmed through—this keeps the crust crisp. You can also freeze Stromboli slices for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen without thawing.

What to Serve With Italian Stromboli?

Fresh Green Salad

A crisp salad with arugula, spinach, or romaine, tossed with a balsamic vinaigrette, balances the rich cheese and meats.

Roasted Vegetables

Oven-roasted broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers make a great side to lighten the meal.

Creamy Tomato Soup

The tangy creaminess of a tomato soup pairs wonderfully with slices of Stromboli dipped in.

Garlic Parmesan Fries

Crispy and herby, these fries are perfect if you’re going for a game-day feel.

Antipasto Skewers

Add an Italian touch to your spread with skewers of olives, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and salami.

Caesar Salad

This classic side dish with its creamy dressing and crunchy croutons is a fan favorite.

Marinated Artichokes

The tang of marinated artichokes adds variety and cuts through the richness of the main dish.

Italian Pasta Salad

A chilled pasta salad with vinaigrette, olives, cheese, and chopped veggies is perfect for parties or potlucks.

Want More Italian-Inspired Ideas?

If this Italian Stromboli hit the spot, here are more savory recipes worth trying next:

• One Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni for a quick and hearty pasta dinner.
• Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta if you’re craving a vibrant, comforting vegetarian dish.
• Garlic Butter Chicken Balls & Creamy Parmesan Pasta when you want something truly indulgent.
• Zucchini Lasagna Recipe for a low-carb twist with tons of flavor.
• Creamy Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Potatoes & Mushrooms if you’re looking for a full cozy dinner in one skillet.

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Let me know in the comments how your Stromboli turned out! Did you go classic with deli meats or add your own twist with roasted veggies or spicy sausage?

I love hearing your kitchen stories and tweaks—this space is all about making food fun and approachable for everyone. Feel free to ask questions, too!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks, family meals, and more comfort food favorites on Janet Dishes on Pinterest.

Conclusion

Italian Stromboli is everything you want in a homemade recipe: easy, cheesy, and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or just because, it’s guaranteed to bring people together. Once you make it once, you’ll be coming back to it again and again with new fillings and creative twists.

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