The Best Homemade Italian Stromboli Recipe: Loaded with Meats and Cheese

Looking for a warm, cheesy dish that bursts with Italian flavors? This Italian Stromboli recipe will be your new go-to for satisfying pizza cravings with a delicious twist. Picture layers of savory salami, pepperoni, ham, and melty mozzarella, all wrapped up in a golden, crispy pizza dough. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a quick, hearty snack, this Stromboli will not disappoint!

Photo byRecipes By Lisa

I first stumbled upon this gem of a recipe over at Recipes by Lisa, and it quickly became a household favorite. Now, I'm excited to share this amazing Italian Stromboli recipe with you!

A Little History of Stromboli

Stromboli is an Italian-American creation often confused with a calzone. While calzones are stuffed with ingredients inside a folded pizza dough, Stromboli is rolled up like a burrito. Its origins are tied to Italian immigrants in the U.S., with some sources claiming it was first created in Philadelphia. The dish is named after the Italian island of Stromboli, but no worries—no volcanic eruptions here, just an explosion of flavors!

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 lb sliced salami
• 1/2 lb sliced pepperoni
• 1/2 lb sliced ham
• 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
• Optional: Red pepper flakes, fresh basil for garnish

How to Make Italian Stromboli

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle, roughly 12x14 inches in size.
3. Layer the Ingredients: Leave a 1-inch border around the edges and start layering the salami, pepperoni, and ham across the dough. Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the top, followed by a pinch of Italian seasoning.
4. Roll It Up: Beginning at one of the longer sides, carefully roll the dough into a log shape. Pinch the seams and tuck the ends to seal the Stromboli. Place it seam-side down on the baking sheet.
5. Egg Wash & Seasoning: Brush the top of the Stromboli with the beaten egg for a shiny, golden crust. Drizzle olive oil if you want extra crispiness, and sprinkle more Italian seasoning.
6. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until the dough is golden brown and cooked through. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
7. Serve: Slice into thick pieces and serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Add red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat, or fresh basil for extra freshness.

Pro Tips for the Best Stromboli:

• Customize the Fillings: Feel free to swap out the meats with turkey, roast beef, or veggies for a vegetarian option.
• Extra Crispiness: Drizzling a bit of olive oil on the dough before baking adds a lovely crisp texture to the crust.
• Side Pairings: Serve your Stromboli with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Enjoy and Share!

This Italian Stromboli is perfect for a cozy night in or as a party appetizer. The combination of rich meats, melted cheese, and a crispy crust will make this dish a favorite for both kids and adults alike. Don’t forget to follow Recipes by Lisa for more amazing recipe ideas like this one!

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