Introduction
When you think of Italian-American comfort food, few dishes compare to a freshly baked Stromboli. Packed with layers of meats, cheese, and seasonings, then rolled inside golden pizza crust, Stromboli is like a cross between pizza and a giant savory pastry. It’s a dish that looks impressive, but is surprisingly easy to prepare at home with just a handful of ingredients. Whether you’re hosting friends for game night, planning a family dinner, or need something quick yet filling, this Italian Stromboli recipe will instantly become a go-to in your kitchen.
My recipe story
I first fell in love with Stromboli at a small pizzeria tucked away in an Italian neighborhood. The aroma of warm bread filled the air as trays of freshly baked Stromboli were pulled from the oven. I was captivated by its crispy crust, gooey melted cheese, and layers of savory meats inside. After that first bite, I knew I had to recreate it at home. What started as an experiment with store-bought dough and deli meats turned into a family-favorite recipe that I now prepare for gatherings, Sunday dinners, and even casual weeknights when we crave something special. It’s a dish that always draws compliments and leaves everyone satisfied.
💡 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make using store-bought pizza dough.
- Perfectly customizable with your favorite deli meats, cheeses, and fillings.
- Great for family dinners, parties, or game-day snacks.
- Freezer-friendly, so you can prep ahead for busy weeks.
- Golden, crispy crust with gooey melted cheese inside—what’s not to love?
Ingredient breakdown
The beauty of Stromboli lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are familiar, but when layered and baked together, they create something extraordinary. At the heart of this recipe is a tube of Pillsbury pizza crust, which saves time and delivers consistent results. It rolls out beautifully, creating the perfect foundation for the fillings.
For the filling, classic Italian deli meats like ham, salami, and pepperoni are stacked to bring a rich, savory flavor. Each slice adds its own unique taste—ham provides a mild saltiness, salami adds a slightly spicy edge, and pepperoni brings bold, smoky notes. Of course, the magic wouldn’t be complete without mozzarella cheese, which melts into a gooey, stretchy layer that holds everything together. A sprinkle of Italian seasoning and garlic powder enhances the flavors, while a light egg wash helps the crust bake to golden perfection.
You can also add extras like sautéed peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms for a vegetable boost. That’s the charm of Stromboli—it’s endlessly versatile and adapts to whatever you have in the fridge.
Equipment you’ll need
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Rolling pin
- Basting brush (for egg wash)
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter
- Mixing bowl (for egg wash)
Step-by-step directions
Step 1: Prepare the dough. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Open the tube of Pillsbury pizza crust and roll it out onto a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to shape it into a rectangle about 12×15 inches. This will give you enough space to layer your fillings without the Stromboli becoming too thick or difficult to roll.
Step 2: Layer the meats. Begin by placing the slices of ham evenly across the dough, leaving about an inch of space along the edges. Follow with slices of salami, slightly overlapping them so every bite has flavor. Finish with a generous layer of pepperoni. This layering technique ensures the fillings are evenly distributed and won’t spill out when baked.
Step 3: Add cheese and seasoning. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the meats, covering the surface evenly. Add a dash of Italian seasoning and garlic powder for extra flavor. The cheese will melt and bind the meats together, while the seasoning brings that irresistible Italian flair.
Step 4: Roll and seal. Starting from the longer side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seams and tuck the ends under to seal the Stromboli completely. This step is important to prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking. Place the rolled Stromboli seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Apply egg wash. In a small bowl, whisk one egg with a tablespoon of water. Use a basting brush to coat the Stromboli with the egg wash. This will give it a golden, glossy finish when baked. For extra flair, you can sprinkle sesame seeds or grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
Step 6: Bake until golden. Place the Stromboli in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and firm to the touch. Allow it to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing—this helps the cheese set slightly and prevents a messy cut.
Variations & substitutions
One of the best things about Stromboli is how easy it is to adapt. You can swap the meats for turkey, roast beef, or prosciutto. If you prefer a vegetarian version, fill the dough with roasted vegetables like peppers, zucchini, and spinach along with ricotta and mozzarella cheese. For spice lovers, adding jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes gives the Stromboli a fiery kick. Even the cheese can be varied—try provolone, cheddar, or gouda for a different twist.
💡 Expert Tips & Troubleshooting
- Don’t overfill the Stromboli—too much filling makes it harder to roll and may cause leaks.
- Seal the seams well to prevent cheese from oozing out during baking.
- Let it cool slightly before slicing for clean cuts.
- For extra crispness, bake on a pizza stone instead of a baking sheet.
Storage, freezing & make-ahead
Leftover Stromboli stores beautifully. Once cooled, wrap slices tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until warmed through. For longer storage, Stromboli can be frozen whole or in slices. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. You can also prepare the Stromboli ahead, refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours, and bake just before serving.
Serving ideas & pairings
Stromboli is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Slice it into thin rounds for appetizers or larger wedges for a main dish. Pair it with marinara sauce for dipping, a fresh Caesar salad on the side, or a bowl of minestrone soup for a hearty Italian-inspired meal. It’s also a crowd-pleaser at parties—serve it on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. For drinks, a glass of red wine, cold beer, or sparkling water with lemon complements the savory richness perfectly.
FAQ
Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of store-bought?
Yes! Homemade dough works wonderfully and adds an artisanal touch. Just be sure to roll it out thin enough to bake evenly.
What other cheeses can I use?
Provolone, cheddar, gouda, or even ricotta can be used in place of mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
Can I make Stromboli ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake fresh when ready.
How do I keep my Stromboli from getting soggy?
Make sure not to overload with fillings and let it cool slightly before slicing. Using a pizza stone can also help keep the crust crisp.
What’s the difference between Stromboli and calzone?
While both use pizza dough and similar fillings, Stromboli is rolled into a log, while calzones are folded like turnovers.
Final thoughts
This Italian Stromboli recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly spectacular. With its golden crust, gooey cheese, and layers of savory meats, it’s the kind of dish that satisfies every craving. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your family, Stromboli is an easy yet impressive option that you’ll want to make again and again. Customize it with your favorite ingredients, enjoy it hot out of the oven, and don’t forget the marinara for dipping. One bite, and you’ll see why Stromboli has earned its place as a beloved Italian-American classic.
Print
Italian Stromboli
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Golden-baked Stromboli filled with layers of ham, salami, pepperoni, and gooey mozzarella. A family-friendly Italian favorite perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
- 1 tube Pillsbury pizza crust
- 8 slices deli ham
- 10 slices Genoa salami
- 12 slices sandwich pepperoni
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out pizza crust into a rectangle about 12×15 inches.
- Layer ham, salami, and pepperoni evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly and season with Italian seasoning and garlic powder.
- Carefully roll up the dough from the long side into a tight log. Pinch seams and tuck ends underneath to seal.
- Place seam-side down on the baking sheet. Brush with egg wash for a golden crust.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American