Easy Stromboli Dinner

This hearty stromboli has become my family's go-to dinner solution on busy weeknights and casual weekend gatherings. The perfect combination of savory meats, gooey cheese, and golden crust never fails to bring everyone to the table with excitement.

I first created this stromboli recipe when hosting an impromptu movie night with friends. The sight of that golden, cheese-filled roll being sliced open became an instant hit, and now it makes a regular appearance at our family dinner table.

Ingredients

• Pizza dough: choose store-bought for convenience or homemade for that extra special touch
• Butter: creates that irresistible golden crust and adds richness to every bite
• Garlic: fresh minced cloves infuse the butter with aromatic flavor that permeates the entire roll
• Mozzarella cheese: the perfect melting cheese that creates those signature stretchy pulls when sliced
• Ham: thin slices provide a subtle smoky flavor that balances the other ingredients
• Salami: adds a peppery bite and rich depth of flavor
• Pepperoni: brings that classic pizza flavor everyone loves
• Egg: creates a glossy seal when brushed on the edges and helps achieve that beautiful golden exterior
• Garlic powder: enhances the fresh garlic flavor for an extra dimension
• Parmesan cheese: adds a nutty salty finish to the topping
• Parsley: provides a fresh color contrast and subtle herbaceous note
• Marinara sauce: the perfect tangy dipping companion to complement the rich flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375°F. This moderate temperature allows the dough to rise and brown beautifully while giving the cheese enough time to melt without burning. Position your rack in the center of the oven for even heat distribution.

Prepare the Dough:

Roll your pizza dough into a rectangle approximately 12 x 14 inches in size. The thickness should be about 1/4 inch throughout. If using store-bought dough that seems too elastic, let it rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before rolling to prevent it from shrinking back.

Add the Garlic Butter Base:

Combine 1 tablespoon of melted butter with minced garlic in a small bowl until well incorporated. Using a pastry brush, apply this mixture in an even layer across the entire surface of the dough. Make sure to reach all the way to the edges except for your border area. This garlic butter creates a moisture barrier that helps prevent the dough from becoming soggy from the fillings.

Layer the Fillings:

Begin with an even layer of 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese spread across the dough, leaving that crucial 1-2 inch border along one long edge and both short edges. This border will help create a proper seal. Next, arrange ham slices in a single overlapping layer, followed by another 1/2 cup of mozzarella. The cheese between meat layers acts as a binding agent. Add salami slices next, followed by pepperoni in an even pattern. Crown your creation with the remaining cheese, ensuring an even distribution for balanced flavor in every bite.

Seal and Roll:

Brush beaten egg along all the exposed borders of dough. Starting from the long edge opposite your clean border, begin rolling the stromboli tightly like a jelly roll. Apply gentle but firm pressure as you roll to eliminate air pockets. When you reach the egg-washed edge, pinch firmly along the entire seam to create a tight seal. Tuck the ends under and press to secure. Place the roll seam-side down on your baking sheet.

Add Toppings:

Mix the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter with garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley until well combined. This topping mixture will create a flavorful golden crust. Brush this generously over the entire top and sides of your stromboli. Using a sharp serrated knife, make shallow diagonal cuts about 2 inches apart along the top to allow steam to escape and create an attractive presentation.

Bake to Perfection:

Transfer your prepared stromboli to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a preheated pizza stone. Bake for 25-30 minutes, rotating halfway through if your oven has hot spots. The stromboli is done when the crust is deeply golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped gently. If browning too quickly, tent loosely with foil for the remaining bake time.

Slice and Serve:

Allow your masterpiece to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This crucial resting period allows the cheeses to set slightly and prevents the fillings from spilling out. Using a sharp serrated knife, cut into 8 even pieces. Serve immediately alongside warmed marinara sauce for dipping.

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The garlic butter base is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered this technique after several soggy-bottomed attempts and have never looked back. My youngest son, who typically avoids anything with visible green herbs, devours this stromboli without hesitation thanks to the irresistible garlic aroma that fills our kitchen.

Make-Ahead Options

This stromboli works beautifully as a make-ahead meal. You can fully assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it unbaked. When ready to serve, simply add 5-7 minutes to the baking time to account for the chilled dough. You can also freeze the assembled unbaked stromboli for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

Serving Suggestions

While marinara is the classic dipping companion, consider offering a variety of sauces to complement your stromboli. Ranch dressing appeals to younger eaters, while a spicy arrabiata sauce satisfies heat-lovers. Complete your meal with a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to balance the richness of the stromboli. For a casual gathering, cut the stromboli into smaller pieces and serve on a large wooden board surrounded by olives, pickled vegetables, and extra dipping options.

Kid-Friendly Modifications

This stromboli is already a hit with children, but you can make it even more appealing to younger palates. Consider using only ham and cheese for picky eaters, or create a half-and-half version with different fillings on each side. Let kids help with the rolling process to increase their investment in the meal. Cutting the finished stromboli into bite-sized pieces makes it perfect for little hands, especially when served with individual dipping cups of marinara.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What is the best dough for stromboli?

Store-bought pizza dough is convenient, but you can also use homemade dough for a fresh and personalized touch.

→ Can I customize the fillings?

Yes! Swap meats for turkey, roast beef, or a vegetarian option like sautéed spinach and mushrooms. Experiment with your favorite cheeses as well.

→ How do I ensure the stromboli stays sealed while baking?

Use egg wash along the edges of the dough and pinch the seams tightly before rolling. Tucking the ends under helps keep everything in place.

→ What’s the best way to slice stromboli?

Allow the stromboli to cool for about 5 minutes, then use a sharp serrated knife to gently slice it into even pieces.

→ Can I make stromboli ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it ahead and keep it refrigerated until ready to bake. Add a few more minutes to the baking time if chilled.