Stuffed with rich Italian meats, gooey cheese, and a punch of herbs, this Italian Stromboli is your new weeknight hero. It bakes up golden and crispy on the outside with an irresistibly melty center. Best of all? It comes together fast with store-bought dough, making it a game-changer for busy evenings when you still crave something hearty and homemade.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fast & Fuss-Free: With ready-made dough and minimal prep, this Stromboli is shockingly simple.
Packed With Flavor: Each bite is loaded with savory meats, melted cheese, and fragrant Italian spices.
Customizable: Tailor it to your taste with endless filling possibilities.
Perfect for Sharing: It slices beautifully and makes a great appetizer or main course for guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pizza dough: Use store-bought for convenience or homemade if you’re feeling ambitious.
Italian deli meats: Think pepperoni, salami, and ham. They bring the salty, meaty punch.
Mozzarella cheese: For that essential gooey, stretchy melt.
Parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and depth to the flavor profile.
Italian seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme works beautifully.
Garlic powder: Enhances the savory aroma.
Egg wash: For brushing the top and giving that glossy, golden finish.
Marinara sauce: For dipping on the side – don’t skip this!

Variations

Veggie Delight: Swap out the meats for sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach.
Spicy Kick: Add a layer of sliced banana peppers or crushed red pepper flakes.
Cheese Overload: Try provolone, fontina, or even ricotta for a different cheesy dimension.
BBQ Twist: Use BBQ sauce, chicken, and red onions for a smoky version.

How to Make Italian Stromboli

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface.

Step 2: Layer the Fillings

Lay the deli meats evenly across the dough, leaving about an inch border. Sprinkle generously with mozzarella, parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.

Step 3: Roll It Up

Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly like a jelly roll. Pinch the seam closed and tuck the ends underneath.

Step 4: Brush and Score

Place the Stromboli seam-side down on the baking sheet. Brush the top with egg wash and make a few diagonal slits to allow steam to escape.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overfill: Too many fillings can cause the Stromboli to burst open while baking.
Seal It Well: Pinch the seams firmly to keep everything inside.
Cool Before Slicing: Let it rest to avoid losing the gooey filling.
Use Fresh Dough: Fresh pizza dough is easier to work with and gives a better texture.

How to Serve

Slice your Stromboli into thick rounds and serve with a warm bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. It pairs beautifully with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables. For a party platter, cut it into bite-sized pieces and watch it disappear.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftovers tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Wrap the baked and cooled Stromboli in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to retain crispness. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the crust from getting soggy.

FAQs

Can I use puff pastry instead of pizza dough?
Yes, but expect a flakier, lighter texture. It’s a fun twist if you want something a little different.

What kind of cheese melts best in Stromboli?
Mozzarella is the go-to for meltability, but combining it with provolone or fontina gives extra richness.

How do I keep the bottom from getting soggy?
Bake on a preheated baking stone or use a perforated pizza pan to help the bottom crisp up nicely.

Can I prepare Stromboli ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it ahead, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Stromboli is the kind of dish you’ll want to make on repeat. It’s easy, deeply satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. Whether it’s dinner for the family or a party showstopper, it always delivers. Don’t wait—give this Stromboli a spot in your weeknight rotation!

Italian Stromboli Recipe