If you’ve never made Homemade Stromboli before, get ready to fall in love with this crave-worthy, golden-baked Italian-American classic. Imagine pizza dough wrapped around layers of gooey cheese, spicy meats, and herbs, then baked until it’s hot and bubbling with deliciousness. Homemade Stromboli is a fun twist on pizza night and guaranteed to become a family favorite—especially since it’s so easy to customize and serve for any occasion!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every bite of Homemade Stromboli comes alive thanks to a short list of thoughtfully chosen ingredients. From soft, chewy dough to melty cheese and bold seasonings, these essentials create that satisfying flavor and color that makes Stromboli so irresistible.
- Pizza dough: The backbone of your Homemade Stromboli; use store-bought for convenience or homemade if you want a personal touch.
- Pizza sauce: Adds moisture and zesty tomato flavor, helping each bite burst with classic Italian taste.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly and creates that irresistible cheesy stretch when you pull your Stromboli apart.
- Sliced pepperoni or salami: Brings the signature spicy, savory notes that make every slice sing—pick your favorite or mix both.
- Cooked Italian sausage (crumbled): Adds heartiness and extra depth of flavor; be sure to cook it thoroughly before assembling.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a salty, nutty edge to balance all the richness.
- Dried oregano: That bright, herby kick completes the authentic Italian pizzeria aroma and flavor.
- Garlic powder: Infuses the filling with subtle, savory warmth in every bite.
- Olive oil: Brushing the top ensures a crisp, golden-brown crust and locks in moisture.
- Egg (beaten, for egg wash): Makes the crust beautifully shiny and perfectly golden once baked.
- Marinara sauce (for dipping, optional): Because dunking a warm slice in tangy sauce is a Stromboli rite of passage!
How to Make Homemade Stromboli
Step 1: Prep Everything
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep cleanup easy. Gather your fillings so they’re ready to layer the moment your dough is rolled out. There’s something so satisfying about getting organized before you start!
Step 2: Roll Your Dough
On a lightly floured surface, stretch and roll your pizza dough into a large rectangle, about 10 by 14 inches. Don’t stress if it’s not perfectly shaped—rustic is beautiful! This shape provides plenty of space for all those tasty fillings.
Step 3: Layer the Fillings
Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, but leave a one-inch border around the edges to make sealing easier later. Evenly sprinkle on your mozzarella, then scatter the pepperoni or salami, cooked sausage, Parmesan, oregano, and garlic powder. Layering like this guarantees every slice is bursting with flavor and melty, cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Roll It Up
Starting on the long side closest to you, gently roll the dough up into a log, like a jelly roll. Tuck in the ends as you go so none of the filling sneaks out during baking. If some cheese does escape in the oven, consider it the chef’s treat!
Step 5: Seal and Brush
Carefully flip your Stromboli so the seam is facing down on your prepared baking sheet. Brush the top with a little olive oil, then with the beaten egg to achieve that gorgeous bakery-worthy shine. Don’t forget to cut three or four small slits on top to let steam escape. This keeps the crust crisp and prevents sogginess.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into your hot oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. It’s ready when the crust is deep golden brown and the aroma drives your household wild with anticipation. Allow the Homemade Stromboli to rest for about five minutes before slicing—this makes cutting neat pieces so much easier.
How to Serve Homemade Stromboli
Garnishes
For the finishing touch, try sprinkling your slices with fresh basil, chopped parsley, or just a light extra dusting of Parmesan. A pinch of chili flakes can add a playful kick, or serve with extra marinara for dipping to double up on saucy flavor.
Side Dishes
Homemade Stromboli shines next to a crisp Caesar salad, a bowl of minestrone, or even some roasted veggies. If you’re entertaining, set out olives, roasted red peppers, or a simple antipasto platter to complete the Italian-American vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your Stromboli into thick, hearty slices for a main course, or slice thinner to serve as a finger food at parties. Arrange on a big wooden board with bowls of sauce for dipping, turning your Homemade Stromboli into the star of the spread. You can even bake smaller, individual-sized rolls for lunchbox treats or game day snacks!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Homemade Stromboli holds up beautifully, and the flavors deepen as it sits.
Freezing
Homemade Stromboli also freezes amazingly well! To freeze, wrap whole or sliced pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place in a zip-top bag. Freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to reheat, there’s no need to thaw—just bake straight from the freezer.
Reheating
For best results, reheat slices in a 350°F oven or toaster oven until warmed through and the crust is once again crisp (about 10 minutes). Avoid the microwave if you can, since it can make the crust a bit chewy. Homemade Stromboli is all about that perfect texture!
FAQs
Can I use different meats or veggies in my Homemade Stromboli?
Absolutely! Homemade Stromboli is made for improvisation—swap in roasted peppers, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, ham, or any of your favorite pizza toppings. Just be mindful not to overfill so it rolls up easily and bakes through.
Can I make the dough at home instead of using store-bought?
Yes, if you love a good baking project, making your own pizza dough gives Homemade Stromboli an extra-special touch. Just be sure it’s given time to rise for that signature, fluffy texture.
What’s the difference between Stromboli and calzone?
While both are stuffed with delicious fillings, Stromboli is rolled into a log and sliced, whereas calzone is folded into a half-moon shape and usually sealed on the edges. The shapes—and often the fillings—set them apart!
How can I keep my Stromboli from getting soggy on the bottom?
Be sure to use parchment paper and a pre-heated oven so the bottom bakes up crisp. Also, don’t overload with too much sauce, and let the Stromboli cool slightly before slicing to keep things tidy and perfectly crisp.
Can Homemade Stromboli be made ahead of time?
Yes—assemble, wrap, and refrigerate it unbaked for a few hours, or bake completely and reheat right before serving. It’s a lifesaver for parties or busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without last-minute stress.
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve had a taste of warm, cheesy, golden-baked Homemade Stromboli, there’s no going back! Get creative with your fillings, invite your friends and family to dig in, and enjoy the unbeatable joy of sharing this Italian-American favorite. I can’t wait for you to try it and make your own delicious memories—happy baking!
Print
Homemade Stromboli Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make delicious homemade stromboli with this easy recipe. A flavorful Italian-American stuffed bread that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Pizza Dough:
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Filling:
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni or salami
- 1/2 cup cooked Italian sausage (crumbled)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Additional:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Marinara sauce (for dipping, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Dough: Roll out the pizza dough into a 10×14-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
- Add Fillings: Spread pizza sauce, mozzarella, pepperoni, sausage, Parmesan, oregano, and garlic powder on the dough.
- Roll: Roll the dough into a log, tucking the ends. Place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
- Brush and Bake: Brush with olive oil and egg wash. Make slits on top and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Rest and Serve: Let it rest before slicing. Serve with marinara sauce.
Notes
- Customize fillings with vegetables, cheeses, or deli meats.
- Stromboli can be made ahead and reheated in the oven or air fryer.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
