Easy Stromboli Recipe

This Easy Stromboli Recipe Will Make You the Star of Any Dinner Party

When it comes to throwing a successful dinner party, the goal is always to serve something that’s as impressive as it is delicious—without spending hours in the kitchen. That’s why I’m so excited to share this easy stromboli recipe with you. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining crispy dough, gooey cheese, and flavorful fillings to create a dish that’s perfect for entertaining. Best of all, it’s incredibly versatile, so you can customize it to suit any taste or dietary preference. Let’s dive in!

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What Is Stromboli?

Stromboli is an Italian-American creation that’s essentially a rolled pizza. Think of it as a cousin to the calzone, but instead of being folded over, it’s rolled into a log, baked to perfection, and sliced into spirals of cheesy, savory goodness. The beauty of stromboli is its adaptability; whether you love classic Italian flavors or want to experiment with healthier vegetarian options, stromboli is the perfect blank canvas.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make the best homemade stromboli:

For the Dough:

1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)

OR 1 loaf frozen bread dough, thawed

For the Classic Filling:

1 cup ground beef, cooked and seasoned

1/2 cup sliced pepperoni

1/2 cup cooked sausage, crumbled

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup marinara sauce (optional, for dipping)

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Optional Vegetarian Filling:

1 cup fresh spinach leaves

1/2 cup ricotta cheese

1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

1/2 cup mushrooms, sautéed

For Brushing:

2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make the Best Homemade Stromboli

1. Prepare the Dough

Start by rolling out your pizza dough or thawed frozen bread dough on a floured surface. Aim for a rectangular shape about 10x14 inches in size. Keep the dough about 1/4-inch thick to make rolling easier and prevent tearing.

2. Prepare the Filling

Cook and season your ground beef with a pinch of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. If you’re using sausage, make sure it’s fully cooked and crumbled. Sauté any vegetables you’re adding to avoid excess moisture, which can make the dough soggy.

3. Assemble the Stromboli

Spread a layer of mozzarella cheese over the dough, leaving about 1 inch of space around the edges.

Add your ground beef, sausage, and pepperoni (or vegetarian fillings) evenly over the cheese.

Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning on top.

4. Roll It Up

Starting with one of the shorter sides, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams and ends to seal.

5. Bake to Perfection

Place the stromboli seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush it with olive oil or melted butter mixed with garlic powder and oregano. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

My Personal Experience Making Stromboli

The first time I made stromboli, it was for a small dinner party with friends. I was nervous about making something so elaborate, but to my surprise, it was much easier than I thought. Rolling the dough was a bit tricky at first, but with a little practice, it became second nature. The moment I sliced into the golden, crispy log and saw those gorgeous spirals of cheese and filling, I knew I had a winner.

One tip I swear by: invest in a good-quality rolling pin and a non-stick baking mat. They make the process so much smoother, especially if you’re new to working with dough.

Product Recommendation:

Joseph Joseph Adjustable Rolling Pin on Amazon – This rolling pin has removable discs that allow you to adjust the thickness of your dough. It’s perfect for ensuring even results every time.

Click here to shop now!

Filling Ideas for Every Taste

One of the reasons I love stromboli is how customizable it is. Here are some of my favorite variations:

Classic Italian:

Pepperoni, mozzarella, marinara sauce

Healthy Vegetarian:

Spinach, ricotta, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes

Meat Lovers:

Ground beef, sausage, pepperoni, bacon

Custom Creations:

Leftovers like roast chicken or even breakfast fillings with scrambled eggs and cheese

Product Recommendation:

Lodge Cast Iron Baking Pan on Amazon – This heavy-duty baking pan ensures even heat distribution, giving your stromboli that perfect golden crust.

Grab yours today!

Pro Tips for Perfect Stromboli

1. Prevent Leaks: Make sure to seal the edges of the dough properly to avoid filling leaks during baking.

2. Golden Crust: Brush the top with olive oil or butter and sprinkle with Parmesan or sesame seeds for extra flavor.

3. Slice Wisely: Let the stromboli cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing to prevent the cheese from oozing out.

Book Recommendation:

"Nonna's Kitchen: 101 Italian Family Classics" on Amazon – This cookbook is a treasure trove of authentic Italian recipes, including pizza, pasta, and yes, more stromboli ideas!

Order your copy here!

Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Parties

This stromboli recipe is not only easy to make but also ideal for entertaining:

It can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.

It’s easy to slice and serve as finger food.

The customizable fillings mean there’s something for everyone.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dough?

Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough or frozen bread dough saves time and works beautifully.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Wrap slices in foil and reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes. Avoid the microwave as it can make the crust soggy.

How do I make a healthier version?

Use whole-wheat dough, add more veggies, and go light on the cheese.

This easy stromboli recipe truly is a showstopper. It’s fun to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or a casual game night, stromboli is the dish that will have everyone asking for seconds—and the recipe. So roll up your sleeves, grab some dough, and get ready to shine in the kitchen.

Have you tried this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below, and don’t forget to check out the recommended products and book for even more culinary inspiration!