The Ultimate Easy Stromboli Recipe: Craft Perfect Italian-American Rolled Pizza at Home
Dive into the delicious world of homemade Stromboli with this incredibly easy recipe, crafted from simple bread dough and generously filled with your most beloved pizza toppings. Imagine savory meats, melty mozzarella, and rich tomato sauce all rolled up and baked to golden perfection. This comprehensive guide not only walks you through the steps to create a pizzeria-quality Stromboli right in your kitchen but also shares our top three favorite filling ideas and expert tips for mastering Stromboli dough like a seasoned pro!
Stromboli holds a cherished spot in the realm of Italian-American cuisine, a beloved staple found in pizzerias and family kitchens across the country. Its popularity rivals that of pizza itself, offering a delightful twist on classic flavors. While a traditional Stromboli recipe often calls for a robust pizza dough, its versatility allows for creativity with various dough types. For those looking to craft their own dough, our Neapolitan Pizza Dough Recipe is an excellent choice, providing the perfect base for these savory rolls. Alternatively, if you’re seeking a quicker, from-scratch option, our easy homemade Crescent Rolls Dough Recipe offers a fantastic, speedy solution – it’s even a superb copycat for Pillsbury!
What Exactly Is Stromboli?
At its core, Stromboli is an Italian-American culinary creation, a rolled pizza that encases a delightful medley of meats, cheeses, and other classic pizza toppings. Unlike a flat pizza, Stromboli is shaped into a cylinder, allowing the ingredients to meld together perfectly within its bready confines. While traditionally made with pizza dough, its adaptability is one of its greatest strengths. You can craft delicious Stromboli using a variety of doughs, including convenient options like Crescent rolls, basic bread dough, flaky puff pastry, or even pre-made frozen bread dough. Essentially, any savory pastry dough that can be rolled and sealed can be transformed into a delectable Stromboli.
The particular Stromboli recipe shared here holds a special place in our hearts. It was a cherished birthday dinner tradition from the kitchen of Hope Helmuth, a remarkable Mennonite cook. I first discovered this gem in her Hope’s Table Cookbook, and after trying numerous versions, I can confidently say hers is truly the BEST Stromboli recipe I’ve ever encountered. We are incredibly fortunate to have her permission to share this culinary masterpiece with you! Hope herself notes that this versatile recipe also works wonderfully for making calzones, further cementing its value. Not only is this Stromboli incredibly easy to prepare, but its impressive appearance makes it look like a gourmet special straight from a high-end pizzeria.
Stromboli vs. Calzone: Unraveling the Delicious Differences
Often confused due to their similar ingredients and Italian-American heritage, Stromboli and Calzone are distinct culinary delights. Both are fantastic ways to enjoy pizza-like flavors, but their key difference lies in their shape and how they are sealed. A calzone is traditionally created by folding a circular piece of pizza dough in half, much like a giant turnover, and then crimping the edges to seal it. This creates a semi-circular pocket. Stromboli, on the other hand, is rolled up into a cylindrical shape, akin to a jelly roll or a savory loaf, with the dough completely encasing the fillings.
This difference in shape impacts everything from how they are eaten to how the flavors develop during baking. Calzones are often served with a side of marinara for dipping, as the sauce is typically placed inside sparingly, if at all. Stromboli, however, usually has its tomato sauce (if used) spread thinly over the dough before rolling, allowing it to integrate throughout the filling. Understanding these nuances – calzone vs. stromboli – is essential for appreciating these beloved Italian-inspired foods, which are typically made from a yeast-leavened dough and bursting with your favorite pizza toppings.
Choosing the Best Stromboli Dough for Your Creation
While Stromboli is most commonly associated with pizza dough, any yeast-leavened bread dough will yield excellent results. The key is to use a dough that can be easily rolled thin and is sturdy enough to hold its shape and contain the fillings during baking. For those who love to bake from scratch, a classic homemade pizza dough is ideal, offering superior flavor and texture. However, for convenience without compromising taste, many alternatives work beautifully.
Refrigerated pizza crusts found in your grocery store’s dairy aisle are a fantastic shortcut. They’re ready to roll out, saving you time without sacrificing the essential bready quality. Similarly, Pillsbury Crescent Rolls can be pressed together to form a sheet, creating a wonderfully tender and flaky Stromboli. For an even richer, buttery crust, puff pastry is an exquisite choice, transforming your Stromboli into a truly decadent treat. Even frozen bread dough, properly thawed and proofed, can serve as a reliable base. Each of these options provides a unique texture, allowing you to customize your Stromboli experience to your preference. While the homemade dough recipe provided here is incredibly straightforward and highly recommended for its ease and delicious outcome, don’t hesitate to experiment with these convenient alternatives!
Expert Tips for Rolling and Sealing Your Stromboli
Successfully rolling and sealing a Stromboli is key to preventing delicious fillings from escaping during baking. It’s a simpler process than you might imagine! First, ensure your dough is rolled out into a generous rectangle – ideally around 12×20 inches, depending on your desired Stromboli size. Lay your prepared fillings strategically in the center of the dough, leaving a border on all sides. This border is crucial for proper sealing.
For an easy and secure method, imagine dividing your dough into thirds lengthwise. Place your fillings in the middle third. Then, take one long side of the dough and fold it over the filling, meeting the edge of the other side. Next, take that remaining side and fold it over the first layer, completely encasing the filling. Gently press down along the seams and edges to create a tight seal. Finally, tuck in the shorter ends, pinching them firmly to prevent any leaks. This “wrap and fold” technique is often more forgiving and simpler than attempting a tight “jelly-roll” style, especially for beginners, and helps maintain a manageable size, preventing your Stromboli from becoming too large and unwieldy.
Inspiring Stromboli Filling Ideas for Every Palate
The beauty of Stromboli lies in its incredible versatility when it comes to fillings. While the classic combination of Italian meats and cheeses is always a winner, the possibilities are virtually endless. Think of your favorite pizza toppings, pasta dish ingredients, or even sandwich fillings, and chances are they’ll make a fantastic Stromboli. Here are some of the most popular and creative Stromboli ideas to spark your culinary imagination:
- Buffalo Chicken: For a spicy kick, spread 3 tablespoons of ranch or blue cheese dressing over the dough. Top generously with 1 pound of cooked, shredded chicken, 2 cups of shredded mozzarella, and a lively drizzle of 1/4 cup hot sauce.
- Pepperoni Stromboli: A timeless favorite! Begin with a thin layer of 1/4 cup of your favorite tomato sauce, then pile on 1/2 cup of classic pepperoni slices and 2 cups of gooey mozzarella cheese.
- Bacon and Chicken Stromboli: Indulge in rich flavors by spreading 1/3 cup of creamy Caesar dressing onto the dough. Layer with 1 pound of cooked chicken strips, 1/2 cup of crispy chopped bacon, 2 cups of mozzarella cheese, a luxurious 4 tablespoons of heavy cream, and 2/3 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Ham and Cheese Stromboli: A simple yet satisfying option. Top the dough with 8 ounces of thinly sliced ham and 8 ounces of melted Velveeta cheese. For a smoother consistency, I recommend melting the Velveeta with a splash of milk.
- Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli: Transform a classic sandwich into a rolled masterpiece! Use my Philly Cheesesteak Recipe as the delicious filling base.
- Three-Cheese Stromboli: For cheese lovers, combine 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella, 3/4 cup of creamy ricotta, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese for a rich and comforting experience.
- Meat Lover’s Stromboli: Embrace the Sicily-style approach! Load it up with your favorite meat lover’s toppings: 1 pound of savory pork sausage, 6 ounces of zesty pepperoni slices, 1/2 cup of chopped bacon, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella. A thin layer of sweet tomato sauce can be added if desired.
- Cheeseburger Stromboli: A fun and unique twist! Top with 1 pound of seasoned ground beef, 8 ounces of American cheese, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, and 1 tablespoon of classic yellow mustard.
- Vegetarian Stromboli: Get creative with your greens! A veggie Stromboli is perfect for using up leftover vegetables. Try a combination of 6 ounces each of green bell peppers, broccoli, and mushrooms, paired with 2 cups of mozzarella. Cauliflower, spinach, or any other fridge-friendly veggies also work wonderfully.
Key Stromboli Ingredients Explained
A classic Stromboli derives its signature flavor from a combination of quality ingredients, typically focusing on Italian cold-cut meats, mozzarella cheese, and sometimes a hint of tomato sauce. This particular recipe takes that traditional foundation and elevates it with additional savory elements, delivering an even more robust and satisfying flavor profile with the inclusion of mushrooms, sausage, and Parmesan cheese.
- Stromboli Dough: The foundation of any great Stromboli. Our easy homemade dough recipe calls for essential ingredients: warm water, active dry yeast (for that perfect rise), olive oil (for richness and texture), a pinch of salt (to enhance flavor), high-gluten flour (for a sturdy yet tender crust), and a touch of sweetness from honey or sugar (to activate the yeast and add a subtle flavor).
- Traditional Filling (Our Favorite): This recipe’s traditional filling is a symphony of flavors: 8 slices of savory dry salami, 16 ounces of perfectly browned pork sausage, 4 ounces of drained canned mushrooms, 1/2 a finely diced onion, 4 ounces of sliced black olives, a kick from 1 tablespoon of chopped jalapeño slices, 2 cups of shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and a generous seasoning of freshly ground pepper. Another beloved option is the Mennonite filling, featuring yellow mustard, deli ham, salami, pork sausage, American cheese, mozzarella, salt, and pepper – a truly delightful combination!
- Topping: To achieve that irresistible golden crust and extra flavor, the Stromboli is brushed with an egg wash (one egg mixed with 1 tablespoon of water) and then sprinkled with dried herbs, typically oregano. This creates a beautiful sheen and aromatic finish.
- Marinara Sauce for Dipping: (Optional, but highly recommended!) A warm, flavorful Marinara Sauce is the perfect accompaniment for dipping your freshly baked Stromboli, adding an extra layer of deliciousness.
How to Make Stromboli: A Quick Overview
Making homemade Stromboli is a remarkably straightforward process, especially with our quick and simple bread dough recipe. The dough requires only 20 minutes to rise, allowing you to move swiftly from preparation to baking. This means you can have a warm, delicious Stromboli on your table in under an hour!
- Prepare the Dough: Begin by combining the dough ingredients according to the recipe. Knead until smooth, then let it rest for a mere 20 minutes to allow the yeast to work its magic.
- Gather Fillings: While the dough rests, take this time to thoroughly prepare all your chosen filling ingredients – browning meats, draining vegetables, and shredding cheeses.
- Roll and Layer: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a generous 12×20-inch rectangle. Layer all your fillings directly onto the center of the dough in the specified order.
- Fold and Seal: Carefully fold one long side of the dough over the filling, then bring the opposite side over the top to completely encase the ingredients. Pinch down the edges firmly and tuck in the ends to create a secure seal, ensuring no delicious filling escapes.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the sealed Stromboli onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the entire surface with an egg wash for a golden crust and sprinkle generously with dried oregano.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 20 minutes, or until the crust is beautifully golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
What to Serve with Your Delicious Stromboli
Think of Stromboli as a hearty, rolled pizza or a gourmet sandwich. The best accompaniments are those that would pair well with pizza, calzones, or even classic breadsticks. These sides offer a perfect balance, cutting through the richness of the Stromboli or simply enhancing the overall meal. Here are some fantastic side dishes to serve alongside your homemade Stromboli:
- Refreshing Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad: A light, fresh salad provides a wonderful contrast to the savory Stromboli.
- Classic Marinara Sauce: Essential for dipping, adding an extra layer of rich tomato flavor.
- Crispy French Fries (Fast Food Style): A popular and satisfying comfort food side.
- Warm Olive Garden Breadsticks (Copycat Recipe): More delicious bread is always a good idea, especially for sopping up extra sauce.
- Cheesy Outback Broccoli and Cheese: A creamy, cheesy vegetable side that complements the main dish beautifully.
- Perfectly Roasted Vegetables: A healthy and flavorful addition that can be customized with your favorite seasonal veggies.
- Hearty Spaghetti and Meat Sauce: For an extra indulgent, Italian-themed meal, a side of pasta is a fantastic choice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stromboli
My Top Three Favorite Stromboli Fillings:
- Traditional Filling: This is the flavorful, Italian-style filling detailed in our recipe card below, featuring salami, pork sausage, mushrooms, and a blend of cheeses. It’s truly a classic for a reason!
- Mennonite Filling: A unique and incredibly delicious option that Hope highlighted in her cookbook. To prepare this: Simply spread 3 tablespoons of tangy yellow prepared mustard over the dough. Layer with 1/2 pound of thinly sliced ham, 6 slices of savory salami, 3/4 pound of browned pork sausage, 6 slices of American cheese, 2 cups of shredded mozzarella, and season with salt and pepper. This combination is surprisingly delicious and a family favorite!
- Doreen’s Stromboli: Another personal favorite! This version includes 1 cup of sweet marinara sauce, 1 pound of flavorful pork sausage, 6 ounces of zesty pepperoni, 1 cup of chopped ham or Canadian bacon, and a generous 2-4 cups of mozzarella cheese. For the topping before baking, Doreen mixes together 4 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 teaspoons of Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and garlic salt, which gives it an irresistible aroma and taste.
Can You Make Stromboli Ahead of Time?
You can certainly prepare the Stromboli dough up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container or a lightly oiled bowl covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. Since the dough is leavened, it will continue to slowly rise in the fridge, developing more flavor. However, I don’t recommend assembling the entire Stromboli with its fillings too far in advance, as the moisture from the fillings can make the dough soggy or cause it to over-proof and become less pleasant to work with.
To Make Ahead: Prepare the dough and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, remove the dough from the fridge and let it rest at room temperature for about an hour or two to relax and become more pliable. Then, stretch the Stromboli dough into its rectangle shape, fill, and bake as instructed.
How To Reheat Stromboli?
Reheating leftover Stromboli is a breeze, ensuring you can enjoy its deliciousness again! If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For reheating, you have a few excellent options:
- Microwave: For a quick reheat, microwave individual slices until warm. Be mindful that the crust may lose some crispness.
- Oven: For the best results and a crispier crust, place individual slices, uncovered, on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 7-8 minutes, or until thoroughly heated through and the cheese is bubbly.
- Air Fryer: An air fryer is fantastic for reheating Stromboli, giving it a wonderfully crisp crust. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, checking frequently.
- Skillet: Reheating in a skillet on medium heat can also help achieve a nice crisp bottom crust.
Can You Freeze Stromboli?
Just like store-bought frozen options, you can easily freeze homemade Stromboli to enjoy later! This makes it a great make-ahead meal option. To freeze Stromboli:
First, allow the baked Stromboli to cool completely to room temperature. This is crucial to prevent ice crystals from forming. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil, ensuring no air pockets. For extra protection against freezer burn, you can then place the foil-wrapped Stromboli into a 2.5-gallon freezer bag. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
To reheat frozen Stromboli: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the foil-wrapped, frozen Stromboli directly into the center of the oven and bake for 30-45 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 10-15 minutes to allow the crust to crisp up, then continue baking until it’s thoroughly heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
How Long To Bake Stromboli?
The baking time for Stromboli can vary based on your oven’s calibration, the thickness of your dough, and the amount of filling. Generally, a large, well-filled Stromboli will take approximately 20 minutes to cook through at an oven temperature of 400°F (200°C). Key indicators of doneness include a beautifully golden-brown crust on top and, crucially, on the bottom. If the top is browning too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil. Always check the bottom crust for good browning, as this indicates the dough is fully cooked and crisp. The internal temperature should also be hot and the cheese fully melted and bubbly.
What Meat Is In Italian Stromboli?
While the name “Italian Stromboli” might suggest a strict Italian origin, Stromboli is actually an Italian-American invention. The meats typically found in Stromboli reflect this heritage, drawing from both traditional Italian charcuterie and American butcher shop favorites. Common choices include a variety of Italian cold cuts, such as dry and cured salami, savory ham, spicy pepperoni, or delicate prosciutto. In many Italian-American pizzerias, it’s also very popular to find ground beef or flavorful pork sausage as a key ingredient, offering a heartier, more robust filling. The combination often varies by region and specific family recipes, allowing for a wide range of delicious meat options.
Dipping Sauces:
Stromboli, with its rich fillings, is perfectly complemented by a flavorful dipping sauce. A classic marinara or a slightly sweetened tomato sauce is always a winning choice, enhancing the Italian flavors without overpowering them. Consider dipping this Italian-American delight into any of the following sauce suggestions:
- Creamy Homemade Alfredo Sauce: For a rich, decadent dip that contrasts beautifully with savory meats.
- Classic Canned Marinara Sauce: A quick and easy option that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
- Robust Pizza Sauce: A thicker, more spiced tomato sauce that pairs perfectly with the pizza-like filling.
- Zesty Subway Chipotle Southwest Sauce: For a unique and spicy kick, this unexpected pairing offers a delightful fusion of flavors.
Stromboli Origin?
Interestingly, despite its Italian-sounding name and ingredients, Stromboli food actually originated in the United States, specifically in the Philadelphia area, making it a proud Italian-American culinary invention. It’s a common misconception that Stromboli comes from Italy. Today, Stromboli is a widespread favorite, found in pizzerias and Italian-American restaurants across the nation. It is often mistaken for a calzone due to similar ingredients, but its distinct rolled shape sets it apart, making it a unique and beloved relative of pizza.
How Many Calories In Stromboli?
For detailed nutritional information, please refer to the nutrition facts provided within the recipe card below. Calorie content can vary significantly based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Stromboli Making Tips & Tricks:
- Flour Your Workspace: Always lightly flour your work surface when rolling and wrapping the Stromboli dough. This essential step prevents sticking and makes the handling process much smoother and easier.
- Serve with Dipping Sauce: Elevate the experience by serving your Stromboli with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, such as a rich marinara or a zesty garlic butter. It adds an extra layer of flavor and moisture.
- Bake on the Bottom Rack: For even cooking and a perfectly crisp bottom crust, bake your Stromboli on the bottom rack of your oven. This helps ensure the dough cooks through without the top browning too quickly.
- Ideal for Gatherings: Stromboli is a fantastic choice for potlucks, parties, or easy weeknight family dinners. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to prepare and easy to slice and serve.
- Create a Breakfast Stromboli: Get creative! For a delightful morning treat, fill your Stromboli with a dozen scrambled eggs, 8 ounces of sharp cheddar cheese, and 1/4 cup of fresh green onions. Don’t limit yourself – Stromboli can be filled with almost any ingredients you have on hand, from chicken pot pie inspired fillings to sweet cinnamon versions.
- Master the Braided Look: For an impressive presentation, create a Stromboli braid. After layering your fillings down the center of the dough, make 1/2-inch slashes along both sides. Then, overlap the side strips, alternating them over the filling to create a beautiful braided pattern before baking.
- Bake Immediately: To prevent the dough from over-rising and becoming too puffy, it’s best to bake your Stromboli immediately after filling. If doubling the recipe, work efficiently to ensure the dough doesn’t rise excessively, otherwise, your Stromboli might end up resembling more of a stuffed bread than a classic rolled pizza.
- Explore More Sandwiches: If you love the concept of a Stromboli sandwich, be sure to explore our other delicious sandwich recipes for more culinary inspiration.
- Individual Portions: For smaller servings or appetizers, consider making “Stromboli bites” or “hot pockets” by cutting the dough into smaller rectangles before filling and rolling.
- Quick Dough Prep: Remember, the dough for this Stromboli bread recipe is incredibly fast, requiring only about 20 minutes of resting time before it’s ready to be filled!
- Choosing the Right Pan: Stromboli is similar to pizza, but because fillings can sometimes leak, it’s best to avoid perforated pans or bakeware with holes. Our top recommendations are large, solid baking sheets or sheet pans that can contain any potential drips and ensure even cooking.
- Calzone Stromboli Adaptation: To transform this Stromboli dough into individual calzones, divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a circle. Place your desired pizza toppings onto one half of each circle, then fold the other half over to create a turnover shape. Pinch and seal the edges tightly, then brush with egg wash and sprinkle with herbs as instructed for Stromboli.
More Delicious Pizza-Inspired Recipes:
- Dominos Pizza Dough (Copycat)
- Pizza Hut Stuffed Crust Pizza
- Copycat Costco Chicken Bake
- Classic Pizza Dough Recipe
- Creamy Alfredo Pizza
- Easy Fruit Pizza (for a sweet change!)
Irresistible Bread Recipes to Try Next:
- Homemade French Bread Recipe – use this versatile dough to make a stunning pull-apart garlic bread wreath!
- Feather-Light Hamburger Buns – perfect for our Easy Cheeseburger Sliders!
- Subway Bread Recipe (Italian Herb and Cheese Copycat) – recreate your favorite sandwich shop bread at home.
Easy Stromboli Recipe
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Stromboli Recipe
Equipment
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1 18×13″ sheet pan
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1 dipping bowl (for marinara sauce)
Ingredients
Stromboli Dough:
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1 cup warm water
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1 Tbsp dry active yeast
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1 Tbsp olive oil
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1 Tbsp honey
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2 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
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1 tsp salt
Traditional Filling:
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8 slices dry salami
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16 oz pork sausage (browned)
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4 oz canned mushrooms (drained)
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1/2 onion
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4 oz black olives (sliced)
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1 Tbsp jalapeno slices (chopped)
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2 cups mozzarella (shredded)
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1/2 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
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freshly ground pepper
Topping:
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1 egg mixed with 1 Tbsp water
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1 tbsp oregano
Instructions
Directions:
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Whisk together warm water, yeast, oil, and honey in a 2-cup liquid measuring cup. -
Combine the flour and salt in a medium bowl and add the yeast mixture. -
Knead into a smooth ball and cover and rest for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, prep all the filling ingredients: brown the sausage, drain the mushrooms, slice and chop the olives and jalapenos, and grate the cheeses. -
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll out into a 12×20-inch rectangle. -
Layer the ingredients in the order given onto the center. Sprinkle with pepper and wrap one side of dough over the filling, then fold and cover with the other end. Pinch down the edges and tuck in the sides to seal the filling. -
Brush stromboli with egg wash and generously sprinkle with oregano. -
Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes. Slice and serve with marinara sauce.
Notes
- Servings: This Stromboli recipe yields 1 large Stromboli, which can be sliced into up to 10 delicious thin servings.
- Meat Variations: Feel free to customize the meat! You can easily substitute 3-5 ounces of flavorful deli ham or savory prosciutto in place of the salami for a different taste profile.
- Fresh Vegetables: For an even fresher taste, Hope’s original recipe suggests using 10 freshly sliced mushrooms and 1 fresh jalapeño, finely diced, instead of the canned versions. This adds vibrant flavor and texture.
- Cheese Combinations: Experiment with your favorite cheeses! I’ve had fantastic results by incorporating part Colby Jack cheese slices. If combining with another cheese, simply use 1 cup of mozzarella and supplement with your other preferred cheese for a delightful blend.
Nutrition per serving