Homemade Stromboli

Introduction

When I first made homemade stromboli, I wasn’t sure how my family would react. Would they embrace this cheesy, savory roll, or would it simply be another dinner option that went unnoticed? To my delight, the moment I pulled it from the oven, the enticing aroma filled our kitchen, and my kids came rushing in, their eyes wide with excitement. One slice turned into two, and before I knew it, we were all gathered around the table, savoring every bite. It quickly became a family favorite, perfect for those cozy nights in or casual gatherings with friends. The combination of gooey mozzarella, zesty meats, and the homemade dough creates an experience that feels like a slice of Italian heaven, and it’s incredibly satisfying to make!

Ingredients

• 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce (optional, for spreading inside or serving as a dip)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni or salami
• 1/2 cup sliced ham
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle, approximately 10×14 inches.

Add the Fillings
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. Evenly sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the sauce, followed by the layers of pepperoni (or salami), ham, and the remaining mozzarella. Finish by sprinkling Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder on top.

Roll and Seal
Carefully roll the dough up, starting from one long edge. Tuck in the sides as you roll to keep the fillings secure. Place the stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

Brush with Egg Wash
Brush the top of the stromboli with the beaten egg to achieve a golden, glossy finish.

Bake
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Serve
Slice and serve with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8 slices
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250 calories

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

• Slice the stromboli into thick pieces.
• Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and presentation.
• Pair with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables.
• Enjoy alongside a glass of red wine for an authentic Italian experience.

Additional Tips

1. Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality meats and cheeses for the best flavor. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged varieties.
2. Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to mix and match your favorite ingredients. Vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can add great flavor.
3. Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to pack in the ingredients, too much filling can make it difficult to roll and may lead to leaks.
4. Brush the Dough: For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some coarse sea salt or Italian seasoning on top after brushing with the egg wash.
5. Let it Rest: Allow the stromboli to rest for a few minutes after baking; this makes it easier to slice and helps retain moisture.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Stromboli: Replace the meats with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers. Add ricotta cheese for extra creaminess.
• Spicy Stromboli: Incorporate spicy sausage or jalapeños to give it a kick.
• Cheesy Stromboli: Load it with various cheeses such as provolone, fontina, or even a blue cheese crumbles for a unique flavor profile.
• BBQ Chicken Stromboli: Use shredded barbecue chicken, red onions, and a mix of cheeses for a sweet and smoky twist.
• Breakfast Stromboli: Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and your choice of breakfast meats like bacon or sausage for a hearty breakfast option.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a light green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Pair with garlic breadsticks or a charcuterie board to enhance the meal.
• Create a buffet-style dinner by offering different dipping sauces like pesto, ranch, or garlic butter.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked stromboli. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the freezer and allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as directed.
• Storage: Leftover stromboli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
   Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can prepare the stromboli and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
3. What can I substitute for marinara sauce?
   You can use pesto, Alfredo sauce, or even a creamy garlic sauce for a different flavor.
4. Is stromboli the same as calzone?
   While they are similar, stromboli is rolled and often sliced, whereas calzones are folded over and sealed like a pocket.
5. Can I add vegetables?
   Yes, feel free to include sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
6. How do I know when the stromboli is done?
   The stromboli should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped.
7. Can I use other meats?
   Yes, you can substitute with your favorite deli meats or leftover cooked meats.
8. What cheese works best for stromboli?
   Mozzarella is classic, but mixing in provolone or fontina adds wonderful flavor.
9. How do I store leftover stromboli?
   Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
10. Can I reheat stromboli?
    Yes, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Conclusion

Homemade stromboli is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together over delicious food. With its flaky crust, savory fillings, and customizable ingredients, this dish is sure to please any crowd. Whether you’re hosting a game night, a casual family dinner, or simply looking for a comforting meal, stromboli is a fantastic choice. So roll up your sleeves and dive into this delightful recipe—it might just become a new family tradition!

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