Easy Stromboli Dinner Recipe
If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful meal that’s both fun to make and satisfying to eat, this Easy Stromboli Dinner Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Picture a golden, flaky crust wrapped around layers of savory pepperoni, ham, and melted cheese, all infused with Italian seasoning and garlic powder for that perfect blend of herbs and spice. It’s comfort food with a twist—easy to prepare, versatile, and excellent for feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Easy Stromboli Dinner Recipe. Each component works together to create a perfect balance of flavors and textures: a soft, golden crust, a savory meat blend, and melty, stringy cheeses that keep every bite exciting.
- 1 lb pizza dough: The foundation of the stromboli, choose store-bought for convenience or homemade for that fresh artisan touch.
- 4 oz sliced pepperoni: Adds a classic spicy kick that complements the cheese beautifully.
- 4 oz sliced ham: Brings a smoky, tender flavor that balances the pepperoni’s spice.
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded: Essential for that gooey, melty texture everyone loves.
- 2 oz provolone cheese, shredded: Offers a mild, slightly tangy flavor to deepen the cheese profile.
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce: Perfect for dipping, adding a fresh tomato zing to each slice.
- 1 beaten egg: Used for an egg wash that gives the crust a beautiful golden shine.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Infuses the dough with aromatic herbs like oregano and basil.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory undertone that highlights the meat and cheese.
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional): Can be brushed on top for extra crispness and a richer finish.
How to Make Easy Stromboli Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper ensures the stromboli won’t stick and cleanup will be a breeze. This simple prep makes all the difference before rolling out the dough.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll the pizza dough into a rectangle about a quarter-inch thick. The rectangle shape makes it easier to fold and roll up all those yummy fillings evenly. Thin enough for crispiness but thick enough to hold everything together perfectly.
Step 3: Season the Dough
Sprinkle the Italian seasoning and garlic powder evenly over the dough. These herbs and spices get baked right into the crust, infusing every bite with extra flavor. It’s a subtle but game-changing step that makes this Easy Stromboli Dinner Recipe truly special.
Step 4: Layer the Fillings
Arrange the pepperoni, ham, mozzarella, and provolone cheeses across the center of the dough, leaving about an inch of empty space around the edges. This helps keep the filling secure when you roll it up so nothing escapes during baking.
Step 5: Fold and Seal
Carefully start rolling the dough over the filling from one long side to the other, creating a tight roll. Pinch and seal the edges firmly so the stromboli stays intact while baking. This step is key to keeping all those delicious ingredients inside.
Step 6: Prep for Baking
Place your rolled stromboli seam-side down onto the prepared baking sheet. Cut a few small slits on top to let steam escape while baking, preventing sogginess and helping the crust stay crisp.
Step 7: Brush with Egg Wash
Brush the entire top of the stromboli with the beaten egg for a stunning golden finish. If you want, add a light brush of olive oil on top for an even richer crust and glossy shine.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the crust is beautifully golden brown and cooked through. The smell filling your kitchen at this point is simply irresistible.
Step 9: Rest and Slice
Remove the stromboli from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serving it slightly cooled helps everything set so the slices hold together well. Don’t forget the marinara sauce for dipping—it’s the perfect complement.
How to Serve Easy Stromboli Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley brighten up the presentation and add a fresh herbal note. Serve each slice with a side of warm marinara sauce to dip into—that tangy, tomato-rich sauce contrasts beautifully with the rich, cheesy filling.
Side Dishes
If you want to round out the meal, consider a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or garlic roasted vegetables to add some freshness and texture variety. Simple sides help keep the focus on the stromboli while making your dinner more balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the stromboli into bite-sized pinwheels for a fun party platter, or serve it as thick slices on a wooden cutting board surrounded by various dipping sauces like ranch or spicy arrabbiata for extra flavor options. Presentation can turn this easy weeknight meal into a crowd-pleasing event!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover stromboli tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen and the crust stays pleasantly chewy, making it great for next-day lunches or snacks.
Freezing
You can freeze the uncooked stromboli after rolling and sealing it, wrapped tightly in plastic and foil, for up to a month. When ready, bake it straight from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This makes it an easy, make-ahead dinner option for busy nights.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the crust crispy and avoid sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pizza dough works just as well; just be mindful of its texture as it can be more delicate. You might want to handle it gently when rolling and sealing your stromboli.
What cheeses work best besides mozzarella and provolone?
Cheeses like cheddar, fontina, or gouda can add interesting flavor twists. Just be sure to use a good melting cheese for that perfect gooey texture.
Can I make stromboli without meat?
Definitely. Swap out meats for your favorite veggies like mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or even olives for a delicious vegetarian alternative. Just make sure to sauté any watery vegetables before using to avoid soggy dough.
Is it okay to prepare this recipe ahead of time and bake later?
Yes, you can assemble the stromboli, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it super convenient if you want to prep in advance and bake fresh later.
How do I prevent the stromboli from leaking cheese while baking?
Be generous but careful when layering fillings and leave enough room at the edges to seal well. Pinching the dough tightly and folding edges properly helps trap all the cheese and meats inside as it bakes.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Stromboli Dinner Recipe really is a fantastic way to bring Italian comfort food to your table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend meal, this stromboli delivers on taste, texture, and satisfaction every time. Grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the delicious homemade goodness that makes every bite a celebration!
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Easy Stromboli Dinner Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Easy Stromboli Dinner Recipe combines classic Italian flavors with a simple preparation technique to create a delicious, handheld meal. Made with a mix of pepperoni, ham, and mozzarella and provolone cheeses wrapped in seasoned pizza dough, it’s perfect for a quick but satisfying dinner. Served with marinara sauce for dipping, this Stromboli is crispy, cheesy, and packed with savory goodness.
Ingredients
For the Dough and Seasoning
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
For the Filling
- 4 oz sliced pepperoni
- 4 oz sliced ham
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 oz provolone cheese, shredded
Other Ingredients
- 1 each egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for brushing)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about ¼-inch thick to create an even base for the filling.
- Season Dough: Evenly sprinkle the Italian seasoning and garlic powder over the surface of the rolled-out dough to infuse flavor directly into the crust.
- Add Filling: Layer the pepperoni, ham, shredded mozzarella, and provolone cheese across the center of the dough, leaving approximately 1 inch margin around the edges for sealing.
- Form Stromboli: Carefully fold the dough over the filling, starting at one long side and rolling it over to the other side. Pinch the edges tightly to seal in the filling and prevent leakage during baking.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the rolled Stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Cut a few slits on top of the dough to allow steam to escape during baking, preventing sogginess.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the beaten egg evenly over the top of the Stromboli to achieve a glossy, golden finish. Optionally, brush with olive oil for extra shine and crispness.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the Stromboli from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- For a spicier Stromboli, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the filling or dough seasoning.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and texture.
- Make sure to seal the edges tightly to avoid filling leakage during baking.
- This recipe can be customized with different meats or vegetables according to preference.
- Store leftover Stromboli wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate; reheat in the oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 Stromboli (about 200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0.3g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: stromboli, easy stromboli recipe, pizza dough stromboli, pepperoni stromboli, Italian dinner, baked stromboli
