👉ItaliannStromboli – Recipes on a Budget

Italian Stromboli Recipe

Indulge in a savory, homemade Italian Stromboli packed with layers of delicious deli meats and gooey cheese wrapped in a golden, buttery crust. This recipe is simple, customizable, and perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients:

1 tube Pillsbury pizza crust
8 slices deli ham
10 slices Genoa salami
12 slices sandwich pepperoni
8 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese (or 1 cup shredded cheese)
2 tablespoons butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped
3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated

Directions:

Preheat & Prepare:
Preheat your oven according to the temperature instructions on the pizza crust packaging. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Crust:
Stretch the pizza crust out gently until it’s nearly the size of your baking sheet. This gives you a perfect base to start layering your ingredients.
Layer the Meats & Cheese:
Begin layering your deli meats in the following order: start with the ham, followed by the salami, and then the pepperoni.
Add the provolone (or mozzarella) cheese on top of the meats. If using shredded cheese, evenly sprinkle it over the top.
Roll & Seal the Stromboli:
Carefully roll the Stromboli from one long edge to the other, making sure it’s tight but not overly compressed. Seal the seam by pinching it closed, then fold the ends under and pinch them to secure. This prevents the fillings from spilling out during baking.
Score the Top:
Using a serrated knife, score the top of the Stromboli a few times to create small slits. This step allows steam to escape during baking, preventing a soggy crust.
Make the Garlic Butter Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese. Brush this mixture generously over the top of the Stromboli.
Bake:
Place the Stromboli in the oven and bake according to the pizza dough instructions. It typically takes around 12-15 minutes, but monitor closely to ensure the crust turns a beautiful golden brown.
Serve & Enjoy:
Allow the Stromboli to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy each bite of this cheesy, meaty delight!

Helpful Tips:

Sealing the Dough: Ensure the edges are sealed tightly to prevent cheese from oozing out during baking.
Customizable Fillings: Add sautéed veggies, like bell peppers or onions, for extra flavor.
Perfect Bake Time: Check the Stromboli 5 minutes before the suggested time to prevent overbaking.

Storage & Reheating Tips:

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: For a crispy crust, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make the Stromboli ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and assemble the Stromboli, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze it?
Yes! After baking, let the Stromboli cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
What’s the difference between Stromboli and a calzone?
A Stromboli is rolled like a burrito, while a calzone is folded in half like a pocket.
Can I add sauce inside the Stromboli?
Yes, feel free to spread a thin layer of marinara or pizza sauce before adding the fillings. Just be careful not to overstuff!
What other cheeses can I use?
Mozzarella, cheddar, or even pepper jack work wonderfully!

Culinary Secrets for Perfect Stromboli:

Don’t Overfill: Too many ingredients can cause the Stromboli to burst.
Room Temperature Dough: Let the dough sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before rolling to prevent tearing.
Crispy Crust Tip: Add a sprinkle of cornmeal to the parchment paper for a crunchier base.
Extra Cheese Flavor: Mix shredded cheese varieties like mozzarella and cheddar for a flavor boost.
Prevent Soggy Bottoms: Use a pizza stone if available. It helps create a crisper bottom crust.
Herb Butter: Brush a combination of melted butter and Italian seasoning over the crust before baking.
Flaky Layers: Gently roll out the dough to create even layers, making it easier to roll and seal.
Airy Crust: Avoid over-kneading the dough as it can result in a denser texture.
Golden Color: Add a light egg wash to the top before baking for a shiny, golden finish.
Spice It Up: Add a dash of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a kick of heat.