Easy Stromboli

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Introduction

Easy Stromboli is the ultimate combination of quick, simple, and irresistibly delicious—a savory pastry bursting with cheesy, meaty, and flavorful fillings, all wrapped in golden, flaky dough. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, game-day snack, or an impressive party appetizer, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results without the fuss. Whether you stick to the classic pepperoni and mozzarella combo or experiment with your favorite toppings, every slice is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to disappear fast.

One of my favorite things about Stromboli is how customizable it is. You can load it up with all your favorite ingredients—think sausage, veggies, ham, or even spinach—and make it as hearty or light as you like. I vividly recall preparing this for a casual get-together with friends; the Stromboli became the star of the evening, with guests raving about its cheesy, gooey goodness and perfect crust.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. Using store-bought pizza dough as a base, you can have this ready to bake in minutes. The warm, enticing aroma as it bakes is enough to make mouths water, and the satisfaction of slicing into that golden roll to reveal its melty, savory filling is unbeatable. Whether served on its own or with marinara sauce for dipping, Easy Stromboli is a recipe you’ll love coming back to, time and time again!

Perfect for:

  • Family dinners
  • Game-day snacks
  • Potluck parties
  • Quick weekday lunches
  • Freezer-friendly meal prep

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • No Pork, All Flavor: This Stromboli skips the pork without sacrificing taste, featuring flavorful and wholesome ingredients that satisfy.
  • Customizable Fillings: Endless possibilities await! Personalize with your favorite meats, veggies, and cheeses to suit any craving or dietary preference.
  • Kid-Friendly: The cheesy, savory filling wrapped in golden crust makes it a meal kids will love—fun to eat and filled with familiar flavors.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Ideal for meal prepping, this Stromboli can be frozen and baked later, making it perfect for busy days when you need a convenient meal.
  • Quick and Easy: With store-bought dough and simple steps, assembling this recipe is a breeze, even on weeknights.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Great for parties, potlucks, or game-day snacks—slice it up and watch it disappear in minutes!
  • Budget-Friendly: Made with accessible ingredients, this recipe is wallet-conscious while still delivering restaurant-quality results.
  • Perfect Make-Ahead Option: Prepare, bake, and serve or reheat later—it retains its flavor and texture beautifully!

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 35–40 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Baking Time: 20–25 minutes
  • Servings: 6 slices
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 300–350 calories

Ingredients

For the Stromboli:

  • 1 package refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade dough)
  • ½ cup marinara sauce (plus extra for dipping)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken or sliced turkey
  • ½ cup sautéed bell peppers and onions
  • ¼ cup black olives, sliced (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Pizza Dough: The perfect base for encasing all the savory goodness.
  • Rotisserie Chicken/Turkey: A flavorful and easy-to-prep protein.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Melty and stretchy for that iconic Stromboli texture.
  • Italian Seasoning: Elevates the flavor profile with classic herbs.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Filling:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cook Vegetables (Optional): In a skillet, lightly sauté the bell peppers and onions with a touch of olive oil until softened. Set aside to cool slightly.

Assemble the Stromboli:

  1. Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, about 12×8 inches.
  2. Layer Ingredients: Spread marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides. Top with mozzarella cheese, followed by the chicken or turkey, sautéed veggies, and olives (if using).
  3. Season: Sprinkle Italian seasoning evenly over the fillings.

Roll and Bake:

  1. Roll Dough: Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams and ends to seal the dough completely.
  2. Brush with Egg Wash: Place the Stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the top with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
  3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and crisp.

Cool and Serve:

  1. Cool Slightly: Let the Stromboli cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
  2. Slice and Serve: Cut into slices and serve warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping.

How to Serve

  • As a Main Dish: Pair with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
  • As an Appetizer: Cut into smaller slices for finger food at parties.
  • For Meal Prep: Store individual slices for grab-and-go lunches.
  • With Extra Sauce: Serve alongside warm marinara or garlic butter for dipping.

Additional Tips

  • Use Cold Dough: Keep the dough cold before rolling to make it easier to handle.
  • Don’t Overfill: Avoid overloading with ingredients to prevent tearing during rolling.
  • Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to add chili flakes or more herbs for extra flavor.
  • Make It Lighter: Opt for low-fat cheese or whole-grain dough for a healthier version.
  • Customize Fillings: Add your favorite veggies, mushrooms, or spinach for more variety.

Recipe Variations

  1. Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and fill your Stromboli with a delicious mix of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, artichoke hearts, and your favorite cheese.
  2. Spicy Stromboli: Add some heat by incorporating jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or spicy pepperoni for a fiery twist.
  3. Cheesy Delight: Enhance the creaminess by spreading a layer of ricotta cheese on the dough before adding the other ingredients. This works beautifully with spinach and mozzarella.
  4. Gluten-Free Version: Make this dish accessible to everyone by using gluten-free pizza dough, maintaining the flavors and structure of the classic Stromboli.
  5. Low-Carb Option: Replace traditional dough with a cauliflower crust for a lower-carb alternative while still enjoying all the filling goodness.
  6. BBQ Style: For a sweet and smoky version, swap marinara with BBQ sauce and fill with grilled chicken, onions, and cheddar cheese.
  7. Mediterranean Flavor: Embrace bold, tangy flavors by using feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, and Kalamata olives. Add a sprinkle of oregano for an authentic touch.
  8. Breakfast Stromboli: Transform your Stromboli into a hearty morning dish by filling it with scrambled eggs, shredded cheese, breakfast sausage, or vegetables like bell peppers and onions.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing (Unbaked Stromboli): Assemble the Stromboli as instructed, but don’t bake it yet. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and a layer of aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake straight from frozen at the recommended temperature, adding 10–15 minutes to the baking time or until fully heated through.
  • Freezing (Baked Stromboli): If you have baked Stromboli leftovers, let them cool completely before freezing. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in the oven or air fryer at 375°F until hot and crisp.
  • Refrigeration: Store leftover Stromboli slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes or until crispy. You can also use an air fryer for a quicker option or microwave for convenience, though the latter may soften the crust.

Special Equipment

  • Baking Sheet: Essential for baking the Stromboli evenly and ensuring a golden crust. Opt for a non-stick or lined baking sheet for best results.
  • Parchment Paper: Prevents the Stromboli from sticking to the baking sheet and makes cleanup effortless.
  • Rolling Pin: Ensures the pizza dough is rolled out to an even thickness, allowing for consistent baking and ease of rolling the Stromboli.
  • Pastry Brush: Ideal for applying egg wash evenly, which helps the crust achieve a golden, shiny finish during baking.
  • Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter: For scoring the dough before baking or slicing the finished Stromboli into perfect servings.
  • Cooling Rack: Provides a place for the baked Stromboli to cool without trapping moisture, keeping the crust crisp.
  • Dough Scraper: Useful for handling and shaping sticky dough, especially when rolling and transferring to the baking sheet.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use a different cheese?
    Yes! Provolone or cheddar are great alternatives to mozzarella.
  2. How can I avoid soggy Stromboli?
    Pat dry any sautéed veggies and use less sauce to prevent excess moisture.
  3. Can I make this ahead of time?
    Yes, assemble the Stromboli and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
  4. Can I substitute the meat?
    Absolutely. Use diced tofu or a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian version.
  5. What side dishes go well with Stromboli?
    A crisp side salad, roasted asparagus, or a cup of soup are all excellent options.

Conclusion

Easy Stromboli is a crowd-pleasing and satisfying dish that brings together convenience and flavor. With its golden, flaky crust and savory filling of meats, cheeses, and seasonings, it’s a versatile choice for a quick dinner, appetizer, or game-day snack.

This recipe is simple to customize with your favorite fillings—think pepperoni, ham, spinach, or a mix of vegetables. It’s also a great make-ahead option that can be baked fresh or reheated for an equally delicious treat.

Serve it with a side of marinara for dipping, and watch it disappear at your next gathering. Don’t forget to snap a photo and share your creation online—tag me to show off your masterpiece. Enjoy the delicious, homemade flavor of Easy Stromboli!

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