Description
Irresistible Italian Stromboli: A savory roll packed with meats, cheeses, and spices, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
- Dough: 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade) plus flour for dusting. The dough serves as the foundation of your Stromboli, creating a rich, flaky outer layer.
- Filling:
- ½ cup marinara (optional) – Adds a savory and tangy flavor, providing moisture and richness to the filling.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella – This cheese melts beautifully, creating that gooey texture everyone loves.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan – Offers nutty notes and enhances the overall flavor of the filling.
- 10 slices pepperoni – A classic ingredient that adds a spicy, bold taste.
- 10 slices salami – Adds depth and richness to the filling.
- 10 slices chicken – Provides a lean protein option that improves the nutritional value while enriching the flavors.
- 1 tsp dried oregano – A staple in Italian cuisine that contributes earthy notes to the mix.
- 1 tsp garlic powder – Enhances the dish with a subtle garlicky punch.
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a hint of heat for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
- ¼ cup fresh basil – Offers a fresh and aromatic finishing touch.
- Topping:
- 1 beaten egg – This egg wash creates a beautifully golden crust when baked.
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan – Additional flavor on top enhances the overall dish.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – Imparts a blend of herbs that complements the other flavors.
- Dipping Sauce (optional): ½ cup warmed marinara – Perfect for dipping! This classic sauce adds a tangy flavor that complements the rich filling.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. Dust your work surface with flour and roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, roughly 12×15 inches. The dough should be about ¼ inch thick to ensure a good balance of crust and filling.
2. Assemble the Filling
Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the rolled-out dough. If you prefer a drier Stromboli, you can skip this step. Next, layer the shredded mozzarella (1 cup), grated Parmesan (¼ cup), pepperoni (10 slices), salami (10 slices), and chicken (10 slices). Sprinkle the mixture with dried oregano (1 tsp), garlic powder (1 tsp), and red pepper flakes (1 tsp) if using. Finish with the fresh basil (¼ cup), spreading it evenly over the fillings.
3. Roll and Seal the Stromboli
Carefully roll the dough tightly starting from one of the shorter edges, ensuring the filling remains inside. Once rolled, pinch the edges to seal it properly. Place the seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet to prevent it from unrolling.
4. Finish It Off
Brush the top of the Stromboli with the beaten egg for that golden finish. Sprinkle it with the remaining grated Parmesan (1 tbsp) and Italian seasoning (1 tsp) to enhance the flavor.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake the Stromboli in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is a beautiful golden brown. Keep an eye on it towards the end, as oven temperatures may vary.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, let your Stromboli cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing it into 1-inch pieces. Serve it warm with the optional marinara sauce on the side for dipping!