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This rolled-up pizza delight has become my go-to solution for busy weeknights and game-day gatherings. The combination of savory meats and melty cheeses wrapped in golden pizza dough creates an irresistible handheld meal that always disappears quickly from the table.
I first made this stromboli when hosting an impromptu football watch party. What started as a quick solution to feed hungry guests has become the most requested recipe among my friends. Even my pickiest eaters clean their plates when this appears at dinner.
Ingredients
- Pizza dough: creates the perfect chewy yet crisp exterior wrap
- Butter and minced garlic: create an aromatic foundation for all the flavors
- Mozzarella cheese: provides that classic stretchy pizza texture
- Thinly sliced ham: adds a salty savory element
- Pepper jack cheese: brings a subtle heat and creaminess
- Salami: delivers rich flavor and just the right amount of spice
- Pepperoni: adds that classic pizza flavor everyone loves
- Fresh parsley: brightens the rich flavors and adds color
- Egg wash: ensures a beautiful golden brown crust
- Parmesan cheese: creates an irresistible savory topping
- Marinara sauce for dipping: completes the pizza experience
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Dough:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F while you gather your ingredients. Roll the pizza dough into a 12x14 inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface or parchment paper. Using parchment makes transferring to the oven much easier without risking a filling spill.
- Create the Flavor Base:
- Brush melted butter across the entire surface of the rolled dough. Sprinkle minced garlic evenly over the butter. This creates an aromatic foundation that infuses the entire stromboli with flavor as it bakes.
- Layer the First Cheese:
- Sprinkle half a cup of shredded mozzarella across the surface, leaving a 1-2 inch border along one long edge and both short ends. This border will help create a proper seal when rolling.
- Add the Meats and Cheeses:
- Layer the ham slices evenly across the cheese. Top with pepper jack cheese slices, followed by salami. Add another layer of mozzarella, then arrange the pepperoni. Finish with the final portion of mozzarella and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Roll and Seal:
- Brush egg wash on the three exposed edges of dough. Starting from the long edge without egg wash, tightly roll the stromboli like a jelly roll. Seal the seam with wet fingertips and place seam-side down. Fold and seal the ends underneath.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Transfer to a baking sheet or pizza stone. Brush the top with either melted butter or remaining egg wash. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and black pepper. Make shallow diagonal cuts across the top to allow steam to escape.
- Bake to Golden Perfection:
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until beautifully browned. Check that the bottom is also golden brown by carefully lifting an edge with a spatula. Allow to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Slice and Serve:
- Use a sharp serrated knife to cut into 8-10 slices. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
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The pepperoni is truly the secret star in this recipe. While traditional stromboli often skips this ingredient, I find it adds that perfect pizza flavor that makes everyone smile. My son actually declared this better than pizza night when I first served it which says everything you need to know about how good it is.
Make Ahead Options
This stromboli can be completely assembled up to 24 hours before baking. Simply prepare through the rolling and sealing step, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from refrigerator, let sit at room temperature for 20 minutes, then continue with the egg wash, Parmesan, and slits before baking. You might need to add 5-7 minutes to the baking time if starting from chilled.
Customizing Your Stromboli
While this classic combination is absolutely delicious, stromboli welcomes creativity. Try using provolone instead of pepper jack for a milder flavor. Vegetarian options work wonderfully too with spinach, roasted red peppers, and mushrooms. For a breakfast version, use scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheddar. The technique remains the same regardless of your filling choices just avoid overly wet ingredients which can make the dough soggy.
Serving Suggestions
A simple green salad with Italian dressing makes this a complete meal. For a more substantial spread, pair with roasted vegetables or a light tomato soup. When serving as an appetizer, slice into thinner pieces and provide several dipping options like pesto, ranch, or garlic butter alongside the marinara. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes on the side lets guests customize their heat level.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What is a Stromboli sandwich?
A Stromboli sandwich is a rolled-up pizza dough filled with various ingredients like cheese, meats, and seasonings, baked until golden and typically served with marinara sauce for dipping.
- → Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly for making Stromboli. Just make sure to roll it out thin and evenly before adding the fillings.
- → What are the best fillings for Stromboli?
Traditional Stromboli fillings include mozzarella, ham, salami, pepperoni, and garlic. You can customize with additional ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or substitute cheeses.
- → How do I ensure the Stromboli stays sealed while baking?
To keep the Stromboli sealed, use an egg wash along the edges before rolling. Press firmly to seal the seam and ends, and bake seam-side down.
- → What sauce pairs well with Stromboli?
Marinara sauce is the classic pairing for Stromboli, but you can also serve it with Alfredo, garlic butter, or even ranch dressing based on preference.
- → How do I store leftover Stromboli?
Wrap any leftover Stromboli tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.