There is something incredibly satisfying about creating a delicious Italian classic right in your own kitchen, and this Homemade Stromboli Recipe delivers that comfort and excitement all on a single plate. With its golden, crispy crust wrapped around a luscious combination of melted cheeses, savory pepperoni, and Italian sausage, every bite bursts with flavor. The blend of herbs, roasted red peppers, and a hint of garlic adds that irresistible Mediterranean flair that makes this stromboli recipe a standout favorite for family dinners or casual get-togethers. If you’ve been searching for a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that feels homemade and authentic, this stromboli will quickly become your new go-to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Homemade Stromboli Recipe calls for simple, easy-to-find ingredients that together create a harmony of tastes, textures, and colors. Each ingredient plays a key role—from the tender, golden crust you roll out, to the savory meats and melty cheeses inside, right down to the spices that add a subtle depth of flavor.
- 1 pound pizza dough at room temperature: The foundation for your stromboli, providing a soft yet crispy crust when baked.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil divided: Enhances richness and helps create that beautiful golden finish on the crust.
- 2 cloves garlic minced: Packs a punch of aromatic flavor that lifts the entire dish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings that classic Italian herb blend for a warm, comforting taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors inside the stromboli.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, indulgent texture you crave.
- 1/2 cup sliced provolone cheese: Adds a subtle sharpness and creamy layer of flavor.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, salty finish that complements the other cheeses.
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni: Classic Italian spice that brings savory zest and a little crisp when baked.
- 1/2 cup cooked Italian sausage crumbled: Rich and flavorful, it adds hearty depth and chewiness.
- 1/4 cup roasted red peppers sliced: Gives a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 large egg beaten for egg wash: Creates a shiny, golden crust and seals in all the fillings.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds optional: Adds a subtle crunch and toasty aroma on top.
- Marinara sauce for serving: Perfect for dipping, adding an extra burst of tangy tomato goodness.
How to Make Homemade Stromboli Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F so it’s ready to bake your stromboli perfectly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a large rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. This even thickness ensures a crispy outside and a tender inside once baked.
Step 2: Mix the Flavorful Garlic and Herb Brush
In a small bowl, combine one tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Brush this fragrant mixture evenly over the rolled dough, making sure to leave a 1-inch border around the edges so the filling stays neatly inside while baking. This layer infuses the crust with subtle yet unforgettable flavor right from the start.
Step 3: Layer the Cheeses and Meats
Sprinkle the mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the dough, covering most of the surface but keeping the border clear for sealing later. Then, add generous layers of pepperoni slices, crumbled cooked Italian sausage, and roasted red peppers. This combination ensures every bite is packed with savory, melty goodness and a hint of sweetness from the peppers.
Step 4: Roll and Seal Your Stromboli
Starting on the long side closest to you, carefully and tightly roll the dough into a log shape, tucking the ends underneath to seal in all those delicious fillings. Place your rolled stromboli seam side down onto the prepared baking sheet so it bakes evenly without unrolling.
Step 5: Add Finishing Touches and Bake
Brush the top of the stromboli with the beaten egg and remaining olive oil to create a gorgeous golden brown crust as it bakes. If you like, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added texture and visual appeal. Use a sharp knife to cut a few small slits in the top of the dough to allow steam to escape while baking. Finally, place it in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until it turns golden brown and the cheese bubbles inside.
Step 6: Rest and Slice Before Serving
Once baked, let your stromboli rest for about 5 minutes to help the filling set so it doesn’t spill out when sliced. Then cut it into thick slices and serve alongside warm marinara sauce for dipping. This resting step is key to enjoying each slice as neat, flavorful, and satisfying as possible.
How to Serve Homemade Stromboli Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Homemade Stromboli Recipe serving with simple garnishes like fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. A light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan on top of the slices adds a touch of elegance and extra cheesy goodness. These little touches brighten up your plate and complement the rich flavors inside.
Side Dishes
Pair your stromboli with fresh, crisp side salads tossed with a zesty vinaigrette or a bowl of warm soup like tomato basil or minestrone. The lightness of salads balances the richness of the stromboli, while a comforting soup makes it a heartier meal. Garlic breadsticks or roasted vegetables also make excellent sides, keeping the meal fresh and flavorful.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Homemade Stromboli Recipe sliced into bite-sized pinwheels as party appetizers or finger food. Arrange the slices on a wooden board with small bowls of marinara and pesto sauces for dipping. You can also create a stromboli sandwich bar, letting guests add extra toppings or greens for a personalized meal experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover stromboli—though it’s unlikely—store it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining the cheesy, meaty flavors and crust texture as much as possible.
Freezing
You can freeze an unbaked wrapped stromboli for up to a month for convenient meal prep. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. Alternatively, freeze baked slices separated by parchment paper in an airtight bag for up to 2 months. This way, you can enjoy quick, homemade stromboli anytime you want!
Reheating
To reheat leftover stromboli, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes until heated through and crust feels crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as that may make the crust soggy and cheese overly melted.
FAQs
Can I customize the filling in this Homemade Stromboli Recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. You can swap meats like ham or salami, or add vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or olives to suit your taste and pantry supplies.
What is the best dough to use for stromboli?
Pizza dough works perfectly because it creates a tender yet firm crust that crisps nicely when baked. Whether store-bought or homemade, just be sure it’s at room temperature for easy rolling.
How do I prevent the stromboli from getting soggy?
Brushing the dough with the garlic and herb oil creates a moisture barrier, and leaving a border around the edges helps prevent overfilling. Also, resting the stromboli before slicing helps keep the filling intact.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the meats and load up on cheeses, roasted vegetables, and herbs for a delicious vegetarian version that still delivers big on flavor.
What should I serve with marinara sauce beside stromboli?
Marinara pairs well with many Italian dishes like garlic bread, salads, or even as a dipping sauce for roasted vegetables and breadsticks alongside your stromboli.
Final Thoughts
I can honestly say that this Homemade Stromboli Recipe has brought so much warmth and joy to my table, and I hope it does the same for you. It’s a fantastic way to share hearty Italian comfort food with your loved ones without any fuss. Once you master this recipe, you’ll find endless ways to customize it and make it uniquely yours. So roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and get ready to create a stunning, savory stromboli that’s sure to impress every time.
Print
Homemade Stromboli Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This homemade Stromboli recipe features a golden, flaky crust stuffed with a savory blend of mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan cheeses, pepperoni, Italian sausage, and roasted red peppers. Perfectly seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs, this classic Italian American dish is baked to crispy perfection and served with marinara sauce for dipping, making it an irresistible main course for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dough and Seasoning
- 1 pound pizza dough at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fillings
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/2 cup cooked Italian sausage, crumbled
- 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
Finishing
- 1 large egg, beaten for egg wash
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- Marinara sauce for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Roll Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the pizza dough into a large rectangle about 1/4 inch thick to create a uniform base for the stromboli.
- Prepare Garlic Oil Mixture: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil with minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Brush this mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges to prevent filling from leaking.
- Layer Fillings: Evenly layer the shredded mozzarella, provolone, and grated Parmesan cheeses over the dough, then add the sliced pepperoni, crumbled Italian sausage, and roasted red peppers on top of the cheese layers.
- Roll Stromboli: Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log shape, carefully tucking in the ends to seal the fillings. Place it seam side down on the prepared baking sheet to maintain shape during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the top of the rolled stromboli with the beaten egg and remaining olive oil for a golden, glossy crust. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top if desired for added texture and flavor.
- Vent Steam: Use a sharp knife to cut a few small slits on top of the stromboli to allow steam to escape while baking, preventing sogginess inside.
- Bake: Place the stromboli in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Let the stromboli rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the filling to set. Slice and serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- You can customize the filling by adding ham, salami, mushrooms, spinach, or olives according to your preference.
- Allowing the stromboli to rest before slicing helps keep the filling intact and prevents it from spilling out.
