Stromboli is a delicious Italian-American dish that combines soft, homemade dough with savory fillings, baked to golden perfection. This easy homemade stromboli recipe is versatile, customizable, and perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prepping. Whether you fill it with classic pepperoni and cheese or opt for a veggie-packed version, this recipe guarantees a warm, satisfying bite every time. Plus, it’s easier to make than you might think!
Why You’ll Love This Stromboli Recipe
Homemade stromboli is a game-changer for anyone looking for a simple yet impressive meal. Unlike store-bought versions, making it from scratch lets you control the ingredients and flavors. The dough is easy to work with, and the filling combinations are endless. Best of all, it bakes up into a crispy, golden crust with a cheesy, flavorful center.
Tips for the Perfect Stromboli
Customize your fillings to suit your taste. Swap pepperoni for ham, add ricotta cheese for creaminess, or throw in extra veggies for a healthier twist. To ensure the dough seals properly, pinch the edges tightly. If you’re making stromboli ahead of time, refrigerate the prepared dough and let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
Topping Variations
Parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor when sprinkled on top before baking. For a buttery finish, brush the stromboli with melted garlic butter after it comes out of the oven. Adding dried basil or oregano before baking enhances the Italian flavors.
How to Store and Reheat Stromboli
Refrigerate leftover stromboli in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the crust soft.
If freezing, wrap unbaked stromboli in plastic wrap and foil and store it for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use store-bought pizza dough? Yes! If you’re short on time, store-bought dough works great. Simply roll, fill, and bake as directed.
How do I prevent my stromboli from leaking? Be sure to leave a 1-inch border when adding sauce and fillings. Pinching the seams tightly will also help prevent leaks.
Can I make mini strombolis? Absolutely! Divide the dough into smaller portions and roll out individual strombolis. Adjust the baking time to around 12-15 minutes.
What’s the difference between stromboli and calzones? Stromboli is rolled into a log, while calzones are folded in half and sealed like a turnover. Calzones also often include ricotta cheese in the filling.
Homemade stromboli is a fun and delicious way to enjoy pizza-inspired flavors with a twist. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Try different fillings, experiment with flavors, and enjoy a warm, cheesy bite every time!
Easy Homemade Stromboli Recipe
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- ¾ cup warm water 100-110°F
- 1 .25-ounce packet active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar divided
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon olive oil plus more for brushing
- ¾ teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- ½ cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled Italian sausage
- ½ cup pepperoni slices
- ¼ cup sautéed onions and bell peppers
- ¼ cup sliced mushrooms optional
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or poppy seeds for topping optional
Instructions
Step 1: Making the Dough
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and ½ tablespoon of sugar. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is crucial for activating the yeast and ensuring the dough rises properly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and the remaining sugar. Once the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the dry ingredients along with the olive oil. Stir until the dough starts to come together.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you’re using a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and mix on medium speed for about 5 minutes. Once kneaded, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Preparing the Filling
- While the dough is rising, prepare the filling ingredients. Cook and crumble the Italian sausage, sauté the onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms (if using), and shred the mozzarella cheese. Having everything ready makes assembling the stromboli quick and easy.
Step 3: Rolling Out the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle, roughly 12×10 inches.
Step 4: Assembling the Stromboli
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the dough, making sure to leave a 1-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning evenly over the sauce. Next, layer the cheese, cooked sausage, pepperoni, and sautéed vegetables. Be sure not to overfill the stromboli, as this can make rolling and sealing difficult.
- Starting from one of the long sides, carefully roll up the dough, tucking in the ends as you go to seal in the filling. Place the stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Brushing and Baking
- For a golden and crisp crust, brush the top of the stromboli with the beaten egg. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds for extra texture and flavor. Using a sharp knife, cut 3-4 small slits on top to allow steam to escape while baking.
- Place the stromboli in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked.
Step 6: Serving and Enjoying
- Once baked, allow the stromboli to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its structure and prevents the filling from spilling out. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
Recipe Notes:
- Dough Resting: Allowing the dough to rest in a warm, draft-free area is key for a good rise. If your kitchen is cold, place the dough near a preheated (but off) oven or wrap the bowl in a warm towel.
- Fillings: Feel free to customize the fillings based on your preferences. Vegetarian options like spinach, artichokes, or roasted red peppers work wonderfully. For extra flavor, use a blend of cheeses.
- Freezing: Stromboli can be frozen either unbaked or baked. If unbaked, wrap tightly in plastic and foil, then bake directly from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time. For baked stromboli, allow it to cool completely, wrap tightly, and reheat in the oven for the best texture.
- Avoid Leaks: To prevent the filling from leaking, leave a 1-inch border when spreading marinara sauce and fillings. Make sure to seal the edges tightly by pinching or rolling them together.
- Make-Ahead Option: The dough can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before rolling it out for best results.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your stromboli with marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or ranch dressing for dipping. Pair it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
