Why Make This Recipe
Making Ultimate Italian Stromboli is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a delicious and filling meal that combines all the great flavors of classic Italian ingredients. It’s perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even just a night in when you want something warm and comforting. The best part? You can customize the filling to suit your taste, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
How to Make Ultimate Italian Stromboli
Ingredients:
- 1 package pizza dough
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Italian meats (such as salami, pepperoni, ham), sliced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Parmesan cheese, for topping
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface into a rectangular shape.
- Spread marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a border around the edges.
- Layer mozzarella cheese, sliced Italian meats, bell pepper, onion, and Italian seasoning on top of the sauce.
- Carefully roll the dough from one long side to the other, enclosing the filling. Pinch the edges to seal.
- Place the stromboli seam-side down on a baking sheet. Brush the top with the beaten egg and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
How to Serve Ultimate Italian Stromboli
To serve Ultimate Italian Stromboli, slice it into generous pieces and arrange them on a platter. You can serve it with a side of marinara sauce for dipping to enhance the flavor. Pair it with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
How to Store Ultimate Italian Stromboli
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. You can also freeze the baked stromboli. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Ultimate Italian Stromboli
- Use a rolling pin to ensure that the pizza dough is rolled evenly, which helps it bake uniformly.
- Feel free to experiment with different fillings, such as vegetables or additional cheeses, based on your preferences.
- To create a flaky crust, let the dough rest for a few minutes after rolling before adding the fillings.
Variation
You can switch up the fillings in your stromboli by using different types of cheese, adding spinach or other veggies, or trying different types of sausage. For a lighter version, consider using a whole wheat pizza dough.
FAQs
Can I make stromboli ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stromboli and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it with plastic wrap and bake it when you’re ready.
What’s the difference between stromboli and calzone?
Stromboli is rolled and filled, while calzones are folded over with the filling inside. Both are delicious, but they have different shapes and presentation.
Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade dough often adds a personal touch and can be customized to your taste. Just ensure that it has enough time to rise before rolling out.

Ultimate Italian Stromboli
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface into a rectangular shape.
- Spread marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a border around the edges.
- Layer mozzarella cheese, sliced Italian meats, bell pepper, onion, and Italian seasoning on top of the sauce.
- Carefully roll the dough from one long side to the other, enclosing the filling. Pinch the edges to seal.
- Place the stromboli seam-side down on a baking sheet.
- Brush the top with the beaten egg and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping.