Let me tell you, the deliciousness of a homemade Stromboli is something that warms my heart every time I make it! I remember the first time I tried one—it was at my friend’s birthday party, and I couldn’t believe how all those tasty fillings were wrapped up in that golden crust. I had to recreate that magic myself, and now this easy Stromboli recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy movie night, a fun gathering with friends, or just because I’m a fan of a good hearty snack, Stromboli never fails to impress!
What makes this recipe great is its versatility. You can stuff it with just about anything you love! I stick to the classics—pepperoni, ham, and mozzarella—but you can easily throw in some veggies or swap out the meats for some delicious alternatives. Every time I bake this up, it brings back those joyful memories, and it often gets devoured so quickly that I’m left wishing I had made two!
What’s in Easy Stromboli?
Let’s take a closer look at what goes into this delightful dish:
1 pound pizza dough: You can make your own if you’re feeling adventurous, but honestly, store-bought works just as well and saves time. I often grab some fresh dough from my local pizzeria.
1/2 cup marinara sauce: This is not just a dipping sauce; it’s essential for giving that tangy flavor to complement the richness of the meats and cheese.
8 ounces sliced pepperoni: The star of the show! This adds that iconic pizza flavor and a nice kick. You can adjust the amount depending on how spicy you like things.
8 ounces sliced ham: Nice and savory, ham balances well with the pepperoni and adds a different texture that makes each bite interesting.
8 ounces sliced mozzarella cheese: Because, really, what’s a Stromboli without gooey, melty cheese? I personally love using whole milk mozzarella for that extra creaminess.
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A little sprinkle adds a great herbal aroma and depth of flavor that takes this dish to the next level.
1 tablespoon olive oil: This lovely oil not only keeps the dough moist but also contributes to that beautiful golden color once baked.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The beauty of Parmesan is in its nutty flavor, and it provides a lovely finishing touch on top of the Stromboli.
Optional: crushed red pepper flakes: If you like a little heat, these are a must! I may or may not be a little heavy-handed with them!
Is Easy Stromboli Good for You?
Now, before we dig into the deliciousness, let’s chat about whether our Easy Stromboli is good for you. It’s a great option for a treat, but as with most things, moderation is key!
Pizza dough: While it can be high in carbs, homemade versions can be made healthier with whole wheat flour.
Meats: Pepperoni and ham do pack a flavor punch, but they can also be high in sodium and saturated fats. Feel free to opt for leaner meats or even swap them for sun-dried tomatoes or grilled vegetables for a veggie delight!
Cheese: Mozzarella is a good source of protein and calcium, but if you’re watching your dairy intake, there are great dairy-free alternatives out there that work well in this recipe.
So, while this isn’t the healthiest meal option, enjoying it occasionally can definitely be part of a balanced diet!
Ingredients
– 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
– 8 ounces sliced pepperoni
– 8 ounces sliced ham
– 8 ounces sliced mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Optional: crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)
Serves about 4-6 people, depending on how hungry everyone is!
How to Make Easy Stromboli?
Ready to make this tasty treat? Let’s get started!
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Trust me, slicing the Stromboli will be easier with less mess afterward!
2. On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle, about 12×16 inches. I like to make it a bit thicker, but you can do what feels right for you.
3. Spread a thin layer of olive oil across the surface of the dough, leaving about an inch around the edges. This will keep it from getting too soggy.
4. Layer on the pepperoni, ham, and mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough. Don’t hold back! Sprinkle the Italian seasoning on top, and if you’re feeling it, add those crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
5. Starting from one long side of the rectangle, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams to seal everything inside—no one wants a spilling Stromboli!
6. Place the rolled Stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the top with olive oil and sprinkle it with parmesan cheese.
7. Use a sharp knife to make 3-4 slits on top of the Stromboli. This is super important for letting steam escape while it bakes.
8. Slide it into the hot oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Your kitchen is going to smell amazing!
9. When time is up, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. I know it’s tempting to dig right in, but we want to avoid burn fingertips here!
10. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping, and dive into that cheesy goodness. Enjoy your Easy Stromboli!
Stromboli Secrets for Perfection
Here are some of my favorite tips and tricks to elevate your Stromboli:
– **Experiment with fillings:** Don’t just stick to meats; add grilled vegetables or even pesto for a flavor twist.
– **Try different cheeses:** Blend in provolone, cheddar, or even a sprinkle of feta for something unique!
– **Make it ahead:** You can prepare the Stromboli up to the baking step and refrigerate it for a few hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
I can’t wait for you all to try this recipe! Trust me, once you slice into it and see all that melted cheese and savory filling, you’ll want to make it again and again. So grab your favorite two or three friends (or just indulged solo—no judgment here!), and dig in! If you try this Easy Stromboli, let me know how it turned out or what fun variations you created!
