If you’re a fan of Italian flavors, melty cheese, and crispy golden crusts, then you’re in for a treat. This homemade Stromboli recipe is everything you could ask for in a quick and satisfying meal. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a party appetizer, or a game-day snack, this cheesy, meaty, and buttery delight will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This homemade Stromboli is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. It requires minimal ingredients, comes together quickly, and delivers restaurant-quality flavors in the comfort of your kitchen. Plus, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences, making it versatile and fun to prepare.
If you love easy Italian-inspired meals like calzones or pizza, then this recipe is right up your alley. Unlike traditional pizza, Stromboli is rolled up, creating layers of gooey cheese and savory meats in every bite. And the best part? A crispy, golden-brown crust brushed with garlic butter and Parmesan.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 tube of Pillsbury pizza crust (or any store-bought pizza dough)
- 8 slices of deli ham
- 10 slices of Genoa salami
- 12 slices of sandwich pepperoni
- 8 slices of provolone or mozzarella cheese (shredded works too)
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons of chopped parsley
- 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Small mixing bowl
- Microwave or stovetop (to melt butter)
- Serrated knife (for scoring the dough)
- Pastry brush (for applying the garlic butter mixture)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well and set aside. This will be used to brush on top of the Stromboli for extra flavor and crispiness.
2. Prepare the Dough
Preheat your oven as directed on the pizza crust packaging (usually around 400°F/200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Unroll the pizza dough onto the sheet, gently stretching it to maximize surface area without tearing it.
3. Layer the Meats
Start by laying down the slices of ham evenly over the dough. Follow with Genoa salami, and finally, top with pepperoni. Make sure each layer is spread evenly to ensure every bite is flavorful.
4. Add the Cheese
Place slices of provolone or mozzarella over the meats. If using shredded cheese, sprinkle it evenly across the surface. The cheese will melt beautifully into the meats, making every bite deliciously cheesy.
5. Roll and Seal
Carefully lift one edge of the dough and roll it over the fillings, creating a tight log. Seal the seam by pinching the dough together, and tuck the ends under to keep everything enclosed.
6. Score and Top
Use a serrated knife to make a few shallow cuts on top of the Stromboli. This prevents the dough from splitting while baking. Then, brush the top with the prepared garlic butter mixture for an extra crispy, flavorful crust.
7. Bake
Place the Stromboli in the oven and bake according to the dough’s package instructions (usually about 15-20 minutes). It’s done when the crust is golden brown and crispy, and the filling is bubbling inside.
8. Cool and Serve
Let the Stromboli rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This prevents the cheese from oozing out too quickly and allows for clean, even slices.
Tips & Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the meats and load it up with roasted vegetables, spinach, and ricotta.
- Spicy Kick: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or spicy salami for a little heat.
- Different Cheeses: Try cheddar, gouda, or a mix of Italian cheeses for unique flavors.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or ranch for dipping!
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them properly to maintain freshness:
- Refrigerator: Wrap slices in foil or place in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Reheating: To keep it crispy, reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5-10 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the crust soggy.
Food & Drink Pairings
- Pair with a salad: A simple Caesar or arugula salad balances the richness.
- Perfect with soup: Tomato soup or minestrone complements the cheesy, meaty flavors.
- Drink pairings: A glass of red wine (Chianti or Merlot), craft beer, or even a refreshing soda pairs beautifully with Stromboli.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pizza dough?
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade dough, just make sure it’s rolled out thin enough to hold the filling and roll up easily.
What’s the difference between Stromboli and Calzone?
A Calzone is folded over like a pocket, while Stromboli is rolled up into a spiral log, creating different textures and filling distribution.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the Stromboli ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready.
What if I don’t have a pastry brush?
You can use the back of a spoon or your fingers to spread the garlic butter mixture over the top before baking.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Stromboli Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a party, or a casual snack, it’s guaranteed to be a hit! The golden, crispy crust, melty cheese, and savory meats make it an irresistible choice.
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