If you are craving a warm, cheesy, and savory masterpiece that brings the best of pizza and calzone together, then this Cheesy Stuffed Stromboli Recipe is your new go-to comfort food. Packed with layers of mozzarella, pepperoni, ham, and vibrant veggies rolled into a golden crispy crust, this recipe is a celebration of flavors and textures that’s surprisingly simple to pull off. It’s perfect for sharing with friends or indulging in a cozy night at home, making every bite a joyful experience you’ll want to repeat again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential for capturing the authentic taste and perfect texture of a stromboli. Each component plays a role: from the stretchy mozzarella cheese that melts beautifully, to the fresh green bell pepper that adds a pop of color and slight crunch. Using simple, quality ingredients ensures your Cheesy Stuffed Stromboli Recipe shines every time.
- 1 pound refrigerated pizza dough: Provides the perfect chewy and golden crust that encases all the fillings.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey heart of the stromboli, ensuring every bite is delightfully melty.
- 1 cup pepperoni slices: Adds a spicy, savory punch that complements the cheese and dough perfectly.
- 1/2 cup ham slices: Introduces a subtle smokiness and tender texture to the filling.
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced: Offers crisp freshness and a vibrant green color to the mix.
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives: Brings a briny, earthy flavor that balances the richness of the meats and cheese.
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce: Acts as the zesty, tangy base layered beneath the fillings, tying everything together.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Infuses classic Mediterranean herbs providing warmth and depth.
- 1 large egg, beaten: Used for brushing on top to achieve that beautiful golden gloss and a slight crisp finish.
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for an extra layer of sharp, nutty flavor and texture.
How to Make Cheesy Stuffed Stromboli Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 400°F so it’s hot and ready when your stromboli is assembled. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure it doesn’t stick and to help with easy cleanup after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, blend your marinara sauce with Italian seasoning to infuse it with those classic herbaceous flavors that make the sauce pop. This mix will serve as a deliciously aromatic base spread inside the stromboli.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your refrigerated pizza dough into a neat 10-by-14 inch rectangle. This size is perfect for layering your generous fillings and ensuring the stromboli is easy to roll without tearing.
Step 4: Layer the Goodies
Evenly spread the seasoned marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Then layer on the shredded mozzarella, pepperoni slices, ham, green bell pepper, and black olives. Each ingredient brings a unique taste and texture to the final stromboli.
Step 5: Roll and Seal
Carefully roll the dough from the long edge, keeping the fillings tucked inside tightly. Pinch the seams to seal, and tuck the ends underneath so none of the delicious filling escapes during baking.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Place the rolled stromboli seam-side down onto your lined baking sheet. Brush the surface with the beaten egg to create a gorgeous golden exterior and sprinkle with grated parmesan for a subtle crusty finish.
Step 7: Bake
Bake your stromboli for 20 to 25 minutes or until the crust turns a deep golden brown. The smell of bubbling cheese and toasted dough will tell you it’s ready!
Step 8: Rest and Slice
Allow the stromboli to rest for 5 to 10 minutes once out of the oven. This resting period lets the cheese set slightly, making clean slicing easier and ensuring every slice keeps its dreamy cheesy innards intact.
How to Serve Cheesy Stuffed Stromboli Recipe
Garnishes
Serve your stromboli with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of vibrant color and fresh herbal notes. A small drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a dusting of crushed red pepper flakes can also enhance the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Cheesy Stuffed Stromboli Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, or perhaps a bowl of classic minestrone soup. The freshness of the sides perfectly balances the richness of the stromboli.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, slice the stromboli into bite-sized pinwheels to serve as tasty appetizers at your next gathering. You can also arrange the slices with a small ramekin of extra marinara sauce for dipping, turning it into an irresistible party platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover stromboli tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect next-day snack or quick lunch.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked or baked stromboli. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil, then store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking, or reheat if already cooked.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to bring back the crispy crust and melty cheese. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy and the cheese rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pizza dough for this Cheesy Stuffed Stromboli Recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough works wonderfully and allows you to customize the texture and flavor. Just be sure to roll it out to the same size so the filling can be evenly distributed.
What cheeses work best in this recipe besides mozzarella?
While mozzarella melts beautifully, you can experiment with provolone or fontina for added depth. Just be mindful of their melting points and flavors to keep the balance right.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Of course! Skip the pepperoni and ham, and load up on roasted vegetables, mushrooms, spinach, or additional cheeses to keep it delicious and meat-free.
How do I prevent the stromboli from getting soggy?
Make sure to leave a border around the dough to seal properly, and avoid overloading with wet ingredients. Using thicker slices or draining veggies well can also help maintain a crisp crust.
Can I prepare this stromboli in advance for a party?
Yes! Assemble it the day before, keep it wrapped tightly in the fridge, and bake fresh before your guests arrive for the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Stuffed Stromboli Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that combines hearty, cheesy goodness with the simplicity of effortless preparation. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining friends, it’s a dish that promises smiles with every savory slice. Give it a go—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
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Cheesy Stuffed Stromboli Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A delicious Cheesy Stuffed Stromboli filled with mozzarella, pepperoni, ham, bell peppers, and olives, baked to golden perfection and seasoned with Italian herbs. Perfect as a savory snack or a hearty meal.
Ingredients
Stromboli Dough
- 1 pound refrigerated pizza dough
Filling
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup pepperoni slices
- 1/2 cup ham slices
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Topping
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the marinara sauce with Italian seasoning, mixing well to infuse the sauce with herbs.
- Roll Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle approximately 10 by 14 inches, ensuring an even thickness for uniform baking.
- Add Filling: Spread the seasoned marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border uncoated. Layer the shredded mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, ham slices, diced green bell pepper, and sliced black olives over the sauce.
- Roll Stromboli: Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough to encase the fillings. Pinch the seams to seal and tuck the ends underneath to prevent leakage.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the rolled stromboli seam side down onto the prepared baking sheet. Brush the top with beaten egg to achieve a shiny, golden crust and sprinkle evenly with grated parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the stromboli to rest for 5–10 minutes after baking to set the filling. Slice into portions and serve warm.
Notes
- Ensure the dough is rolled evenly to prevent any undercooked spots.
- Feel free to customize the stuffing with your favorite vegetables or meats.
- Letting the stromboli rest after baking helps the filling set and makes slicing easier.
- Use parchment paper to avoid sticking and to facilitate easy cleanup.
