Italian Stromboli Recipe

Introduction

Italian Stromboli is a beloved Italian-American baked bread filled with layers of savory cured meats, melted cheese, and seasonings, all rolled inside soft pizza dough and baked until golden brown. Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, this easy Stromboli recipe is perfect for family dinners, parties, game days, or make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

• 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ cup pizza sauce or marinara (optional)
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 6 slices salami
• 6 slices ham
• 6 slices pepperoni
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional: sesame seeds or dried parsley for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the dough
   Roll pizza dough into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
3. Add the fillings
   Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce (if using), leaving a 1-inch border. Layer mozzarella, salami, ham, pepperoni, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
4. Roll the stromboli
   Roll the dough tightly from one long side, tucking in the ends to seal.
5. Brush and season
   Transfer seam-side down to the baking sheet. Brush with egg wash, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with sesame seeds or herbs.
6. Bake
   Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked.
7. Rest and slice
   Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

Tips for the Best Italian Stromboli

• Don’t overfill — too much filling can cause splitting
• Seal edges tightly to keep cheese inside
• Let it rest before slicing to avoid cheese leakage
• Use low-moisture mozzarella for best results

FAQs

Is Stromboli Italian or Italian-American?
Stromboli is Italian-American, created in the United States and inspired by Italian flavors.

What is the difference between Stromboli and calzone?
Stromboli is rolled and sliced, while calzone is folded into a half-moon shape.

Can I make Stromboli ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

What fillings are best for Stromboli?
Classic meats include salami, pepperoni, ham, sausage, and mozzarella cheese.

Can Stromboli be frozen?
Yes, baked Stromboli freezes very well and reheats beautifully.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 22 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sodium: 760 mg