Stromboli is a beloved Italian-American dish that's packed with flavor and perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner. This Easy Stromboli Dinner Recipe will show you how to create a delicious, homemade stromboli in no time. Filled with savory ingredients like pepperoni, cheese, and Italian seasonings, all wrapped up in crispy golden dough, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. Whether you're serving it for a weeknight meal, a gathering, or just craving comfort food, stromboli is the answer.
What is Stromboli?
Stromboli is often confused with a calzone, but the two are quite different. While a calzone is a folded pizza, a stromboli is more like a rolled-up pizza, filled with layers of delicious ingredients and baked to perfection. Traditionally, Italian meats, cheese, and vegetables are the most common fillings, though the combinations are endless. The beauty of stromboli is its versatility—it’s simple to customize based on your personal preferences or what you have in your fridge!
Ingredients for Easy Stromboli
This stromboli recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and requires only a few basic ingredients. You can customize the fillings to your taste, but here's a basic version to get you started:
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1 package refrigerated pizza dough (store-bought for convenience)
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1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
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½ cup pepperoni slices
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½ cup cooked sausage (optional)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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1/4 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Easy Stromboli
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the stromboli will bake perfectly and become golden brown.
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Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle about 10-12 inches long. The dough should be thick enough to hold the fillings, but not too thick that it becomes doughy after baking.
Step 2: Add the Fillings
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Layer the cheese: Spread a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the center of the dough, leaving a small border along the edges.
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Add the meats: Place a layer of pepperoni slices and cooked sausage (if using) on top of the cheese. Feel free to add any other fillings you love—like ham, salami, or vegetables.
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Season the fillings: Sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper over the fillings to enhance the flavor.
Step 3: Roll the Stromboli
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Carefully fold one edge of the dough over the fillings, then begin to roll it up tightly. Make sure to seal the edges by pinching the dough together as you roll. This helps keep the filling inside during baking.
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Place the rolled stromboli seam-side down on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the Stromboli
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Brush the top of the stromboli with a small amount of olive oil. This will give the dough a nice golden color and a slightly crisp texture as it bakes.
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Use a sharp knife to make slits or small vents on top of the stromboli to allow steam to escape while baking. This helps the stromboli cook evenly and prevents it from getting soggy.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese inside has melted. The crust should be crispy and fully cooked.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
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Once your stromboli is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
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Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, or enjoy it as is. Slice it into generous portions and serve it as a delicious, hearty meal.
Why This Easy Stromboli Recipe Works
Quick and Convenient
This recipe is perfect for those busy nights when you want something easy but satisfying. With store-bought pizza dough and minimal prep, you can have a hot, fresh meal in less than 30 minutes.
Customizable Fillings
Stromboli is extremely versatile. You can adjust the fillings based on what you have on hand or according to your family's preferences. From classic pepperoni and mozzarella to a vegetarian version with mushrooms and spinach, the possibilities are endless.
One-Pan Meal
This is a one-pan meal, meaning minimal cleanup. Simply roll the stromboli, bake it, and enjoy. Plus, the crispy crust and melted cheese create a perfect combination that everyone will love.
Tips for Making the Best Stromboli
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Use fresh dough: While store-bought dough is convenient, using homemade pizza dough will elevate your stromboli even more. If you have the time, consider making your own dough for a fresher taste.
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Don’t overfill: It’s tempting to load up your stromboli with lots of fillings, but be careful not to overstuff it. If the fillings spill out, it can make a mess and cause the dough to become soggy.
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Make it ahead: You can prepare the stromboli up to the rolling step, then store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes it a great option for meal prep or parties.
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Check for doneness: Make sure the stromboli is baked until golden brown and crispy. If the dough is still soft in the middle, return it to the oven for an additional few minutes.
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Add flavor: Experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar, provolone, or parmesan, to add variety and richness to your stromboli.
Serving Suggestions
While stromboli is delicious on its own, you can always pair it with some sides for a more complete meal:
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Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will complement the rich, cheesy stromboli.
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Garlic Bread: Serve it with a side of garlic bread to add extra flavor and texture.
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Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies like asparagus, broccoli, or carrots are great options for adding more nutrition to the meal.
Conclusion: Easy, Delicious, and Customizable
This Easy Stromboli Dinner Recipe is the perfect go-to for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend treat. With its crispy crust, melty cheese, and flavorful fillings, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, its versatility means you can customize it to fit your tastes or what’s available in your pantry. So roll up your sleeves, grab some dough, and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade stromboli!
