If you are craving something warm, ooey-gooey, and packed with savory flavors, this Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine a golden, tender crust wrapped snugly around melted mozzarella cheese and zesty pepperoni slices, all seasoned with a touch of Italian herbs to bring every bite to life. This dish is comfort food at its finest, perfect for sharing with friends, family, or simply treating yourself to a delicious homemade treat. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a game-day snack, this Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli will quickly become one of your all-time favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delightful Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe. Each component plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that inviting golden crust.
- 1 lb pizza dough: The sturdy yet soft foundation that holds all the goodies together and crisps up beautifully when baked.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly to create that irresistible cheesy stretch with every bite.
- 4 oz sliced pepperoni: Adds a spicy, savory kick and a delightful texture contrast to the creamy cheese.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings fragrant depth and the classic Italian flair to the filling.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Brushed on the crust to ensure a golden, glossy finish and a slightly crisp bite.
How to Make Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C), ensuring it’s hot enough to create a crisp crust while melting the cheese inside. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
On a clean surface, roll your pizza dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. This thickness is crucial – not too thin to tear, but thin enough to bake through quickly and encase the filling perfectly.
Step 3: Add the Cheese, Pepperoni, and Seasoning
Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella all over the dough to guarantee every bite is cheesy. Layer the sliced pepperoni on top, and finish by sprinkling the Italian seasoning for that aromatic boost.
Step 4: Roll and Seal the Stromboli
Carefully roll the dough tightly from one long edge to the other, forming a log shape. Pinch the seams closed to seal in the filling, which keeps all those delicious ingredients tucked inside during baking.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Place your stromboli seam-side down on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the entire handle with olive oil to help achieve a golden color and a satisfyingly crisp crust. Don’t forget to make small slits on top to allow steam to escape and prevent sogginess.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake the stromboli for 20 to 25 minutes, watching for a perfectly golden-brown exterior. Once done, let it cool slightly before slicing – this resting time allows the cheese to set just enough, so it doesn’t run everywhere when cut.
How to Serve Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of freshly chopped basil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the rich, hearty filling. For a little extra zing, drizzle a bit of marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Side Dishes
Pairing your stromboli with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables balances the indulgence of the melted cheese and pepperoni, providing a refreshing bite. A bowl of tomato soup also makes a cozy, comforting companion to dip and savor.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, slice the stromboli into bite-sized pieces and serve it as party finger food with an array of dipping sauces. Wrap individual slices in parchment and tie with twine for a charming picnic treat or lunchbox surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Stored properly in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days, maintaining much of its deliciousness.
Freezing
This stromboli also freezes well. Wrap it tightly in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve its texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, place the stromboli in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warm and the crust revitalizes its crunch. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy and the cheese unevenly hot.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough works perfectly and saves time, making it even easier to whip up this Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe whenever the craving strikes.
What can I use instead of pepperoni?
If pepperoni is not your favorite or you want to mix it up, try using sliced salami, cooked sausage, or even a vegetable medley for a different but equally delicious twist.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free pizza dough, you can enjoy this stromboli without worry. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the dough brand.
How do I prevent the stromboli from becoming soggy?
Make sure to roll the dough tightly and seal the seams well. Also, brushing olive oil on top and cutting slits helps steam escape, ensuring a crispy crust rather than a soggy one.
Can I add extra fillings to the stromboli?
Definitely! Feel free to customize with mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, or extra cheese. Just keep an eye on the dough thickness to make sure it seals properly and bakes evenly.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe is one of those homemade delights that feels both special and comforting at the same time. It’s simple enough to make on a busy night but impressive enough to share with guests. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try and see how quickly it becomes a cherished staple in your recipe collection. Your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli is a delicious, easy-to-make Italian-American baked good featuring a golden, crispy pizza dough crust filled with melted mozzarella cheese, spicy pepperoni slices, and fragrant Italian seasoning. Perfect for a weekend snack or a casual dinner, this stromboli is baked to perfection, giving you a crispy exterior and gooey, flavorful filling in every bite.
Ingredients
Stromboli Dough and Filling
- 1 lb pizza dough
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 oz sliced pepperoni
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Roll Dough: Roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick, ensuring an even thickness to allow uniform cooking and filling distribution.
- Add Fillings: Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the surface of the dough, then layer the sliced pepperoni on top, followed by a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for enhanced flavor.
- Shape Stromboli: Roll the dough tightly from one end to the other to form a log shape, making sure to pinch the seams closed to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, brush the surface evenly with olive oil for a crispy golden crust, and make small slits on top to allow steam to escape while baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and crisp. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute pepperoni with other cured meats like salami or ham if desired.
- For extra flavor, add a layer of marinara sauce inside before rolling the dough.
- Letting the stromboli cool for a few minutes before slicing helps to keep the cheese from oozing out.
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the stromboli evenly.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven for best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
