Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe

Imagine golden-crusted dough, bubbling with gooey mozzarella and little ribbons of spicy pepperoni—this Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe is the kind of crowd-pleaser that disappears from the table in minutes. It’s one of those hearty, comforting dishes that somehow combines the fun of pizza night with the wow factor of a bakery-fresh loaf. Whether you’re cooking for family game night or craving an easy weeknight meal, this stromboli checks all the delicious boxes you could dream of.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe a true winner is just how simple and fuss-free the ingredients are. Each one brings something special—flavorful, melty, or crunchy—that shines in every slice.

• Pizza Dough: The foundation of your stromboli! Store-bought works in a pinch, but homemade gives that bakery-fresh texture and taste.
• Pepperoni Slices: These add a punch of spicy, smoky flavor—choose thick cut for extra bite or classic thin for a traditional touch.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The heart of all the cheesiness—opt for whole milk mozzarella for ultimate melt and stretch.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of this sharp, nutty cheese amps up the flavor and adds a beautiful golden finish.
• Egg: A quick egg wash creates that perfectly glossy, bakery-style crust.
• Italian Seasoning: Just a dash brings herby depth and ties all the classic pizza flavors together.
• Marinara Sauce (for serving): Warm and tangy, this is the essential dipper to make every bite irresistible.

How to Make Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Dough

Start by letting your pizza dough come to room temperature—it’ll be much easier to roll and shape. Lightly dust your countertop and roll out the dough into a large rectangle, roughly 10 by 15 inches. Try to keep the thickness even so your stromboli bakes consistently throughout.

Step 2: Layer on the Good Stuff

Next comes the fun part! Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough, making sure to leave a one-inch border on all sides. Scatter the pepperoni slices over the cheese, pressing them gently so they’ll stay put during rolling. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and a pinch or two of Italian seasoning on top for that classic flavor punch.

Step 3: Roll It Up

Carefully roll up the dough, starting from the long edge—think of it like rolling a big pizza burrito. Pinch the seams tightly and tuck the ends underneath so all the cheesy goodness stays inside. Transfer the stromboli, seam side down, onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Brush and Score

Whisk the egg with a splash of water, then brush it liberally over the top and sides of your stromboli. This will give you that irresistibly glossy, golden finish. Use a sharp knife to make a few diagonal slashes across the top—this helps steam escape and gives that classic look.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the tray into a preheated 400°F oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden and the filling is bubbling. Let your Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe cool for 10 minutes before slicing—this helps all that melty cheese stay put when you cut into it.

How to Serve Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe

Garnishes

For extra flair, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a little more grated Parmesan over the top after baking. A drizzle of garlic butter post-oven gives it a glossy, aromatic finish that elevates every bite.

Side Dishes

This stromboli shines with a crisp green salad dressed in a sharp vinaigrette or a side of roasted veggies. For a heartier meal, pair it with a bowl of tomato soup or your favorite pasta salad—it easily turns dinner into a feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the stromboli into thin spirals and arrange them on a rustic wooden board with bowls of marinara for dipping—the perfect appetizer for parties. Or, serve whole and let everyone slice off big pieces at the table for a cozy, hands-on meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you manage to have any leftovers (it’s rare!), simply wrap the cooled slices tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days without losing their flavor or texture.

Freezing

For long-term storage, freeze the baked and cooled stromboli whole or sliced. Wrap tightly in plastic and then foil, or use a freezer bag. It stays fresh in the freezer for up to two months—just thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy again.

Reheating

To revive that warm, melty center and crisp crust, pop leftovers into a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid the microwave if possible as it makes the crust a bit soft, but if you must, wrap loosely in a paper towel and heat in 30-second increments.

FAQs

Can I use different meats or cheeses?

Absolutely! While pepperoni is classic, you can swap in cooked sausage, ham, or even a veggie medley. Try provolone, cheddar, or fontina for a fun cheesy twist that still gives you those melty, stretchy slices.

Do I need to cook the pepperoni first?

No need—sliced pepperoni cooks beautifully right in the stromboli, soaking the cheese and dough with flavor as it bakes. If you’re using other fillings that need pre-cooking (like mushrooms or onions), sauté them first for best results.

Can I make the Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the stromboli, refrigerate covered for up to a day, and then bake when you’re ready. It’s a great option for parties or busy weeknights when you want fuss-free, fresh-from-the-oven results.

My stromboli leaked while baking—help!

If some cheese oozes out, don’t worry! Ensuring the edges are well-sealed before baking and letting it cool slightly before slicing both help keep the filling in place. And those crispy cheese bits on the parchment are a chef’s treat.

Can I use gluten-free dough for this Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe?

Yes, there are several great gluten-free pizza dough options out there—both homemade and store-bought. Just be gentle while rolling and filling, as gluten-free dough tends to be more delicate.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and downright fun to share, give this Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe a try. It’s simple enough for weeknights but tasty enough to make any gathering special—honestly, you might find yourself making it again and again!

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