Easy Stromboli Dinner Recipe

If you love pizza night, wait until you try homemade Stromboli! This Easy Stromboli Dinner Recipe is a game-changer—it’s crispy, golden on the outside, packed with gooey melted cheese, savory meats, and whatever fillings your heart desires. It’s essentially a rolled-up pizza that bakes into a crispy, cheesy, handheld meal—perfect for family dinners, game nights, or an easy weeknight treat.

With store-bought or homemade pizza dough, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes and is totally customizable. Whether you prefer classic pepperoni and mozzarella, a veggie-loaded version, or a spicy buffalo chicken twist, this Stromboli is always a hit!

So, let’s roll (literally!) and make this quick, delicious, and fun dinner.

Description

This Easy Stromboli is a delicious, pizza-inspired dish made by rolling up dough, cheese, meats, and seasonings, then baking it until crispy and golden. It’s a fun alternative to pizza, perfect for sharing, and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Stromboli:

• 1 pound pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
• ½ cup pizza sauce or marinara
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
• ½ cup sliced pepperoni (or your favorite deli meats)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing the dough)

Optional Fillings:

• Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers (for a veggie option)
• Cooked Italian sausage or ham
• Buffalo chicken & ranch dressing for a spicy twist
• Ricotta cheese for a creamier filling

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prep Dough

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle (about 12×10 inches).

Step 2: Add the Fillings

1. Spread pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
2. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese evenly over the sauce.
3. Layer with pepperoni or your choice of toppings, keeping everything in an even layer.
4. Season with garlic powder and Italian seasoning for extra flavor.

Step 3: Roll and Seal

1. Starting from the long side, carefully roll the dough into a log, tucking in the edges as you go.
2. Pinch the seams tightly to seal the Stromboli so the cheese doesn’t leak out while baking.
3. Place the rolled-up Stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Add Egg Wash & Bake

1. Brush the top with beaten egg to give it a golden crust.
2. Make a few small slits on top to allow steam to escape while baking.
3. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Slice & Serve

1. Let the Stromboli cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy!

Notes

• For extra crispiness, bake directly on a pizza stone or preheated baking sheet.
• Make it ahead! Assemble the Stromboli, wrap in plastic, and store in the fridge until ready to bake.
• Use refrigerated crescent dough for an even quicker version.

Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American
Diet: Can be customized (vegetarian, low-carb, etc.)
Keywords: Stromboli recipe, easy dinner, homemade Stromboli, pizza roll, baked Stromboli

Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush
• Sharp knife for slicing

Helpful Tips for the Perfect Stromboli

1. Use Cold Dough for Easy Rolling

• If using store-bought pizza dough, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before rolling. This prevents it from shrinking or tearing while shaping.

2. Roll the Dough Evenly

• Roll the dough into a large rectangle (about 12×10 inches) to ensure even cooking.
• If the dough is too thick, the center might stay doughy.

3. Avoid Overfilling

• While it’s tempting to load up on cheese and toppings, too much filling can cause the Stromboli to burst open while baking.
• Keep a 1-inch border clear around the edges to make sealing easier.

4. Seal the Edges Well

• Pinch the dough tightly to keep everything inside.
• If needed, dab a little water along the edges before sealing to help them stick together.
• Place the seam-side down on the baking sheet to prevent it from unrolling.

5. Add an Egg Wash for a Golden Crust

• Brushing the top with a beaten egg gives it a shiny, golden-brown finish.
• For extra flavor, sprinkle garlic powder, parmesan, or sesame seeds on top before baking.

6. Make Small Slits for Steam Release

• Before baking, use a knife to cut a few small slits on top. This prevents steam buildup, which can cause the Stromboli to split open.

7. Bake at High Heat for a Crispy Crust

• A hot oven (400°F/200°C) ensures a crispy, golden crust.
• If the bottom isn’t browning enough, bake on a preheated pizza stone or an inverted baking sheet.

8. Let It Rest Before Slicing

• Let the Stromboli cool for at least 5 minutes after baking. This prevents the cheese from oozing out too quickly and makes slicing easier.

9. Customize Your Fillings

• Try different combinations like:
  • Classic: Pepperoni, mozzarella, and marinara
  • Meat Lovers: Ham, salami, and cooked sausage
  • Veggie Delight: Mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers
  • Spicy Buffalo: Shredded buffalo chicken and ranch dressing

10. Serve with Dipping Sauces

Marinara, ranch, garlic butter, or spicy sriracha mayo make great dipping sauces!

this RECIPE

Conservation and Storage

Refrigeration (Short-Term Storage)

• Store leftover Stromboli in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For best results, store slices separately with parchment paper between them to prevent sticking.

Freezing (Long-Term Storage)

You can freeze baked or unbaked Stromboli for later!

Freezing Baked Stromboli:

1. Let the Stromboli cool completely.
2. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
3. Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating from Frozen:

• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
• If reheating slices, microwave for 1-2 minutes, then crisp up in a pan or air fryer.

Freezing Unbaked Stromboli:

1. Assemble the Stromboli but don’t bake it yet.
2. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
3. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Baking from Frozen:

• No need to thaw! Bake directly from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, until golden and fully cooked inside.

Reheating Leftovers

• Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes for a crispy crust.
• Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave (Quickest but Softens Crust): Heat slices for 30-45 seconds, then crisp in a pan if needed.

Meal Prep Tip

• Prepare and store the unbaked Stromboli in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.
• This is perfect for busy weeknights or meal planning!

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about Stromboli is how customizable it is! Whether you want to change up the dough, switch the fillings, or try a new flavor twist, here are some fun and easy variations to make this recipe your own.

Dough Substitutions

• Store-Bought Pizza Dough – The quickest and easiest option!
• Homemade Pizza Dough – If you have time, making your own dough gives great flavor.
• Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough – A flakier, buttery alternative for a lighter Stromboli.
• Puff Pastry – Creates a crispy, layered texture similar to a turnover.
• Gluten-Free Pizza Dough – Perfect for those avoiding gluten.
• Low-Carb/Keto Dough – Try a fathead dough (made with mozzarella, cream cheese, almond flour, and egg).

Cheese Variations

While mozzarella is the classic choice, mixing in other cheeses can enhance flavor and texture:

• Provolone – Mild and melts beautifully.
• Cheddar – Adds a sharp, rich taste.
• Parmesan – Great for a salty, nutty kick.
• Ricotta – Gives a creamier filling.
• Pepper Jack – Adds a bit of spice!

Meat Variations

• Classic Pepperoni Stromboli – The all-time favorite!
• Meat Lovers – Add ham, salami, cooked sausage, and bacon.
• Buffalo Chicken Stromboli – Toss shredded chicken in buffalo sauce and mix with ranch dressing.
• Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli – Fill with sliced roast beef, sautéed onions, peppers, and provolone.
• BBQ Chicken Stromboli – Use BBQ sauce, cooked chicken, red onion, and cheddar cheese.
• Breakfast Stromboli – Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and cooked bacon or sausage for a fun twist.

Vegetarian & Healthier Variations

• Veggie Stromboli – Fill with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, onions, bell peppers, and olives.
• Caprese Stromboli – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, with a drizzle of balsamic glaze after baking.
• Mediterranean Stromboli – Use feta, olives, roasted red peppers, and spinach.
• Pesto & Cheese Stromboli – Swap pizza sauce for pesto and add mozzarella and parmesan.

Sauce Variations

Instead of traditional pizza sauce, try these:

• Alfredo Sauce – For a creamy, rich flavor.
• Pesto – Adds a fresh basil and garlic twist.
• BBQ Sauce – Perfect for BBQ chicken Stromboli.
• Buffalo Sauce – Great for a spicy version.
• Garlic Butter – Brush on top for extra flavor.

Spicy & Bold Flavor Variations

• Spicy Italian Stromboli – Add banana peppers, jalapeños, or crushed red pepper flakes.
• Taco Stromboli – Fill with seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, and salsa, and serve with sour cream.
• Garlic & Herb Stromboli – Brush the dough with garlic butter and sprinkle with Italian herbs before baking.

Mini Stromboli (Perfect for Parties!)

• Instead of rolling one large Stromboli, cut the dough into smaller pieces and make individual mini rolls.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
• Serve as an appetizer with a variety of dipping sauces!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Stromboli ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake. It can be prepped up to 24 hours in advance.

2. How do I prevent a soggy Stromboli?

Avoid overloading with sauce, and be sure to bake at high heat (400°F) to get a crispy crust.

3. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Absolutely! Most grocery stores sell fresh or canned pizza dough, which makes this recipe even easier.

4. What’s the difference between Stromboli and a calzone?

A Stromboli is rolled like a log, while a calzone is folded like a half-moon. Both are delicious!

Conclusion

This Easy Stromboli Recipe is the perfect quick dinner, party snack, or fun alternative to pizza night. With its golden, crispy crust and melty cheese-filled center, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd favorite.

Try it tonight and let me know how it turns out! Share your photos on Pinterest or leave a review—I’d love to hear what fillings you used!

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