Imagine biting into a golden, flaky crust that gives way to a symphony of flavors – savory pepperoni, melted cheese, and a blend of aromatic herbs. This is the magic of stromboli, and today, we’re bringing you the best version yet, made with a homemade pizza dough that will leave you craving more.
Stromboli, the distant cousin of the calzone, has long been a beloved dish among Italian-American communities. But this recipe takes the classic to new heights, infusing it with the perfect balance of texture and taste. Get ready to experience a culinary journey that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance!
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, craving a cozy night in, or simply looking to impress your friends and family, this stromboli with pizza dough is sure to be the star of the show. So, let’s dive in and discover the secret to creating a truly mouthwatering masterpiece.
💖 What Makes This Recipe Truly Special?
This stromboli recipe stands out from the rest for several reasons. First and foremost, the homemade pizza dough is the true hero of the dish. By making the dough from scratch, you’ll achieve a level of flavor and texture that simply can’t be replicated with store-bought options. The dough is perfectly pillowy, with just the right amount of chew and a subtle, yeasty aroma that complements the filling to perfection.
Additionally, the filling in this stromboli is a carefully curated blend of classic Italian flavors. Savory pepperoni, melted mozzarella, and a fragrant mix of herbs come together to create a taste sensation that will have you going back for seconds (or thirds!). The ratio of filling to dough is also carefully balanced, ensuring that each bite delivers a harmonious symphony of flavors.
Ingredients
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup sliced pepperoni
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water for egg wash
The key to this stromboli’s exceptional flavor is the combination of high-quality ingredients. The homemade pizza dough provides a sturdy yet tender base, while the pepperoni and mozzarella cheese offer a classic, crowd-pleasing filling. The Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and garlic powder add depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile. Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of spice.
Instructions
- Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, use a rolling pin to roll the pizza dough into a large rectangle, about 12 inches by 16 inches. The dough should be rolled out evenly, with a uniform thickness of about 1/4 inch.
- Assemble the Filling: In a bowl, combine the mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, Parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Layer the Filling: Spread the filling mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a 1-inch border along the edges.
- Roll and Seal: Starting from the long side, carefully roll the dough up tightly into a log, making sure to keep the filling intact. Pinch and seal the seam and the ends to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the rolled-up stromboli seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, make several 1-inch deep slits across the top of the stromboli to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Egg Wash: Brush the entire surface of the stromboli with the egg wash, which will help create a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the stromboli for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it towards the end to prevent over-browning.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the stromboli to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing into 1-inch thick pieces. This resting period will help the filling set and make it easier to slice cleanly.
Timing Overview
• Cook time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Nutritional Information
Nutritional information is an estimate per serving, based on 8 servings.
• Protein: 18 g
• Sodium: 900 mg
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Fiber: 2 g
💡 How to Customize This Recipe ?
• To Make it Vegan: Substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses with plant-based alternatives, and use a vegan pepperoni or your favorite meat substitute. Adjust the baking time as necessary.
• To Add a Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick of heat.
✨ How to Serve This Dish Like a Pro ?
• Garnish Suggestions: Garnish the sliced stromboli with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of pesto, or a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or oregano.
• Beverage Pairing: This stromboli pairs wonderfully with a crisp, light-bodied red wine, such as a Chianti or Montepulciano, or a refreshing lemonade or iced tea.
⚠️ How to Sidestep Common Cooking Pitfalls ?
• Mistake 2 – Not Allowing the Stromboli to Rest: It’s important to let the stromboli rest for 10-15 minutes after baking before slicing. This resting period allows the filling to set and prevents a messy, oozing stromboli when you cut into it.
• Mistake 3 – Overbaking the Stromboli: Keep a close eye on the stromboli towards the end of the baking time to ensure it doesn’t become too dark or dry. The crust should be a nice, golden brown, and the cheese should be melted and bubbling.
❄️ Preserve Your Creation: Storage Tips
• Freezing: Stromboli freezes incredibly well. To freeze, wrap the cooled stromboli tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a resealable freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat the stromboli in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave for 30-60 seconds.
❓ FAQs
Can I use store-bought pizza dough instead of making it from scratch?
While you certainly can use store-bought pizza dough, we highly recommend making the dough from scratch for the best possible flavor and texture. The homemade dough is the foundation of this stromboli recipe, and it really makes all the difference in the final result. If you’re short on time, look for a high-quality refrigerated or frozen pizza dough from your local grocer.
How do I prevent the stromboli from leaking during baking?
To prevent the stromboli from leaking during baking, be sure to tightly roll and seal the dough, pinching the seam and ends to create a secure seal. Additionally, making the slits on top of the stromboli will allow steam to escape, which helps maintain the structural integrity of the roll.
Can I use a different type of meat in the filling?
Absolutely! While pepperoni is the classic choice, you can easily substitute it with other cured meats, such as salami, capocollo, or prosciutto. Just be sure to adjust the amount of filling to maintain the perfect filling-to-dough ratio.
How do I ensure the dough is cooked through without overbrowning the outside?
To ensure the dough is cooked through without overbrowning the outside, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the stromboli for 25-30 minutes, keeping a close eye on it towards the end. If the crust is browning too quickly, you can loosely cover the top with aluminum foil to prevent further browning while allowing the interior to finish cooking.
Can I make the stromboli in advance and bake it later?
Yes, you can absolutely assemble the stromboli in advance and bake it when you’re ready to serve. Simply prepare the stromboli up to the point of the egg wash, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, brush with the egg wash and bake as directed.
💌 Enjoy Your Delicious Creation!
There you have it – the ultimate stromboli with pizza dough that’s sure to impress your friends and family. This recipe is a true labor of love, but the end result is well worth the effort. Savor each bite, and don’t be surprised if your guests start asking for seconds (or even thirds!). Buon appetito!
The Best Delicious Stromboli with Pizza Dough
⏱️ Timing Overview
🥘 Ingredients
📝 Instructions
- On a lightly floured surface, use a rolling pin to roll the pizza dough into a large rectangle, about 12 inches by 16 inches. The dough should be rolled out evenly, with a uniform thickness of about 1/4 inch.
- In a bowl, combine the mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, Parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Spread the filling mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a 1-inch border along the edges.
- Starting from the long side, carefully roll the dough up tightly into a log, making sure to keep the filling intact. Pinch and seal the seam and the ends to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Place the rolled-up stromboli seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, make several 1-inch deep slits across the top of the stromboli to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Brush the entire surface of the stromboli with the egg wash, which will help create a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the stromboli for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it towards the end to prevent over-browning.
- Allow the stromboli to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing into 1-inch thick pieces. This resting period will help the filling set and make it easier to slice cleanly.
