When it comes to comfort food, few things hit the spot quite like a freshly baked stromboli. Packed with layers of savory meats, melted cheese, and tangy marinara sauce, this deluxe version takes it to a whole new level. I remember the first time I made stromboli—it was a game day, and I wanted something hearty and shareable. It was a hit! The best part is how versatile stromboli can be; you can fill it with all your favorite ingredients, and it always turns out delicious.

 

Making stromboli might seem intimidating at first, but once you get the hang of rolling the dough and sealing in all that goodness, it becomes a go-to recipe for parties, family dinners, or any time you need a satisfying meal. The combination of crispy crust and gooey filling is irresistible, and the aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes will have everyone eagerly waiting for it to come out of the oven.

Ingredients

• Pizza dough: 1 pound, store-bought or homemade
• Marinara sauce: 1/2 cup, plus extra for dipping
• Provolone cheese: 1/2 pound, sliced
• Salami: 1/2 pound, sliced
• Pepperoni: 1/2 pound, sliced
• Ham: 1/2 pound, sliced
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 cup
• Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup
• Roasted red peppers: 1/2 cup, drained and sliced
• Black olives: 1/2 cup, sliced
• Dried oregano: 1/2 teaspoon
• Dried basil: 1/2 teaspoon
• Egg: 1, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the stromboli from sticking.

2. Roll Out the Dough:

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, approximately 12×18 inches. The key here is to roll it evenly so that your stromboli bakes evenly. If the dough starts to shrink back, let it rest for a few minutes before continuing to roll.

3. Layer the Ingredients:

Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. This border will help you seal the stromboli later. Next, layer on the provolone cheese, followed by the slices of salami, pepperoni, and ham. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the meats. Finally, add the sliced roasted red peppers and black olives. Sprinkle the top with dried oregano and basil for an extra burst of Italian flavor.

4. Roll the Dough:

Starting with one of the longer sides, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, making sure to tuck in the sides as you go to seal in the filling. Pinch the seams and ends to ensure everything is securely enclosed. This step can be a little tricky, so take your time to roll it evenly and tightly.

5. Transfer to Baking Sheet:

Place the rolled stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. This helps keep the seams from opening up during baking.

6. Brush with Egg Wash:

Brush the beaten egg over the top and sides of the stromboli. This egg wash will give the crust a beautiful golden, shiny finish.

7. Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly. The stromboli should smell amazing at this point, with the cheese melted and the edges of the dough crispy.

8. Cool and Slice:

Allow the stromboli to cool for a few minutes before slicing it into pieces. This cooling time helps the filling set, making it easier to slice without everything spilling out. Serve with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips and Variations:

• Customize the filling: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients to the stromboli. Sautéed onions, mushrooms, or spinach would be great additions.
• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the filling before rolling it up.
• Make it ahead: You can assemble the stromboli ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

FAQs

Q: Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
A: Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough works perfectly and makes this recipe even easier. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

Q: How do I keep the stromboli from getting soggy?
A: Be careful not to overfill the stromboli, and make sure to drain ingredients like roasted red peppers and olives well. Also, pre-bake the dough slightly before adding the filling if you want an extra-crispy crust.

Q: Can I freeze stromboli?
A: Yes, you can freeze stromboli either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble it and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. If freezing after baking, allow it to cool completely before wrapping and freezing. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Q: What can I serve with stromboli?
A: Stromboli pairs well with a simple green salad or a bowl of soup. It’s also great on its own as a hearty snack or meal.

 

Deluxe Stromboli is the perfect dish when you’re craving something hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s versatile, easy to make, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it at a party, for a family dinner, or just because, this stromboli is sure to satisfy. With layers of delicious ingredients all wrapped up in a crispy crust, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.