Stromboli Recipe | Delicious Italian Stromboli

PUBLISHED December 8, 2025· MODIFIED December 8, 2025 · by the author listed in the recipe card 2539 words. · About 13 minutes to read this article.· This post may contain affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases· Leave a Comment

This Stromboli recipe is a delicious blend of savory fillings wrapped in a golden-brown, crispy crust. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, planning a cozy family dinner, or simply craving a taste of Italy, mastering the art of Stromboli will transport your taste buds to new heights.

Why Your Family Will Love This Stromboli Recipe

Endlessly customizable. Load it with your favorite meats, cheeses, and sauces.
Family-friendly. Everyone loves a warm, cheesy roll you can slice and share.
Great for busy nights. Uses simple ingredients and bakes quickly.
Perfect for meal prep. Leftovers reheat beautifully for lunches or snacks.

With its delectable combination of fillings nestled in a golden crust, this dish is perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or any occasion that calls for a taste of Italy.

What Is Typically In A Stromboli?

A classic Stromboli recipe typically consists of a combination of Italian deli meats, cheese, and vegetables, all wrapped in a rolled pizza dough. While the filling variations can be diverse, here are the typical ingredients you would find in a traditional Stromboli:

Pizza Dough– A base of homemade or store-bought pizza dough serves as the foundation for the Stromboli. The dough is rolled out into a rectangular shape and acts as the outer crust.
Italian Deli Meats– Thinly sliced Italian deli meats are a staple in Stromboli. Common choices include ham, salami, pepperoni, and sometimes cooked Italian sausage. These meats add a savory and flavorful element to the filling.
Cheese– Provolone cheese is the classic choice for Stromboli, offering a mild and creamy flavor. Mozzarella cheese is often used as well. The cheese melts beautifully during baking, adding a gooey and indulgent texture to the Stromboli.
Vegetables– Various vegetables can be incorporated into the Stromboli for added flavor and texture. Sliced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and black olives are commonly used. These vegetables provide a touch of freshness and complement the savory meats and cheese.
Marinara Sauce– A thin layer of marinara sauce is often spread over the dough before adding the fillings. The sauce adds moisture, enhances the flavors, and prevents the Stromboli from becoming dry.
Seasonings– Additional seasonings can be sprinkled over the fillings to enhance the overall taste. Dried Italian herbs such as oregano, basil, and parsley are commonly used to infuse the Stromboli with a hint of aromatic flavor.

Is Stromboli Supposed To Have Sauce?

Traditionally, a Stromboli recipe does not have sauce inside the filling. The filling ingredients, including the deli meats, cheese, and vegetables, are typically layered directly on the dough without the addition of sauce.

Some recipes or personal preferences (like mine) may include a small amount of sauce as part of the filling. This can add moisture and flavor to the Stromboli.

What Is The Difference Between A Calzone And A Stromboli?

Calzones and Stromboli are both Italian-inspired baked dishes that feature dough wrapped around a filling. While they share similarities, there are distinct differences between the two:

Shape and Folding Technique.
- Calzones are typically folded into a crescent or half-moon shape. The dough is rolled out into a circle, filled with ingredients, and then folded over to enclose the filling. The edges are crimped or sealed to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Stromboli is rolled into a log or cylindrical shape. The dough is rolled out into a rectangular shape, filled with ingredients, and then rolled up tightly, similar to a jelly roll. The ends are tucked in or sealed to keep the filling intact.
Filling Ingredients.
- Calzones are filled with a combination of meats, cheeses, and vegetables, similar to a pizza filling. Common fillings include mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, ham, salami, vegetables, and marinara sauce. The filling is typically pre-cooked or partially cooked before being enclosed in the dough.
- Stromboli fillings usually consist of Italian deli meats, such as ham, salami, pepperoni, and provolone or mozzarella cheese. While vegetables can be included, they are typically used sparingly, if at all. The fillings in Stromboli are generally not pre-cooked and are assembled raw before baking.

Regional Differences.
- Calzones are more commonly associated with Southern Italian cuisine, particularly Naples and Sicily. They are often served as an individual portion, resembling a folded pizza pocket.
- Stromboli is believed to have originated in the United States, specifically in Philadelphia. It was named after the volcanic island of Stromboli in Italy. Stromboli is typically served in larger portions, sliced into servings.

Ingredients You’ll Need For This Stromboli Recipe

For the Dough

All-Purpose Flour– Forms the structure of the dough, giving it strength and chew.
Warm Water– Hydrates the flour and activates the yeast.
Instant or Active Dry Yeast– Makes the dough rise, giving it a light, airy texture.
Sugar– Feeds the yeast to help it activate and also adds slight browning to the crust.
Salt– Enhances flavor and helps strengthen the gluten structure.
Olive Oil– Adds tenderness, richness, and helps the dough stay soft and pliable.

For the Filling

Sliced Deli Meats– Add hearty, savory flavor and a satisfying, protein-packed filling. Ham, salami, and pepperoni each bring their own texture and richness.
Provolone Cheese– Melts beautifully and creates that classic, stretchy, cheesy layer that holds the filling together.
Bell Peppers– Add sweetness, color, and a little crunch to balance the rich meats and cheese.
Onions– Bring mild sweetness and savory depth as they cook inside the stromboli.
Black Olives– Add a briny, salty contrast that cuts through the richness of the fillings.
Mushrooms– Provide earthy flavor and extra moisture, making the stromboli more savory and hearty.
Marinara Sauce– Adds moisture, tang, and classic Italian flavor. (Your homemade low-carb marinara works perfectly!)
Italian Seasoning– Enhances the overall flavor with a blend of herbs like oregano and basil.
Salt and Pepper– Simple seasonings that bring all the flavors together for a well-balanced bite.
Egg Wash– Brushed on the dough to create a shiny, golden, bakery-style crust.

How To Make This Stromboli Recipe

Prepare the Dough. Combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy. In a separate bowl, mix the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
Assemble the Filling. While the dough is rising, slice the deli meats, provolone cheese, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and black olives. Preheat the oven to 400F.
Roll Out the Dough. Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a floured surface and punch it down to release the air. Roll the dough into a rectangular shape, approximately ¼ inch thick.
Fill and Roll. Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Layer the meats, provolone, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and black olives on top of the sauce. Sprinkle on the Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Starting from one of the longer edges, roll the dough into a log, sealing the ends tightly.
Bake the Stromboli. Transfer the Stromboli onto a baking sheet with parchment paper. Brush the top with the egg wash for a glossy, golden crust. Add small slits on top to allow steam to escape during baking. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the Stromboli is golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy! Remove the Stromboli from the oven and let it cool. Slice it into thick pieces and serve it warm.

Tips And Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks to help you make this delicious Stromboli recipe:

Dough Consistency– Pay attention to the consistency of your dough. It should be soft, elastic, and easy to work with. If the dough feels too sticky, gradually add a bit more flour. Conversely, if it feels too dry and tough, add a small amount of water or olive oil.
Resting Time– Allow the dough to rest and rise properly after kneading. This helps the gluten relax, making it easier to roll out and shape. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, usually around 1 to 2 hours.
Roll Thinly and Evenly– Roll out the dough to an even thickness, aiming for a rectangular shape. Rolling the dough too thick can result in an undercooked center, while rolling it too thin may cause the filling to leak out during baking. Aim for a thickness of about ¼ to ½ inch.
Layer the Fillings Evenly– Distribute the fillings evenly across the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Evenly layer the meats, cheeses, and vegetables to ensure a balanced flavor in every bite. Be mindful not to overstuff the Stromboli, as it may become difficult to roll and seal.
Sealing the Edges– Before rolling up the Stromboli, moisten the edges of the dough with a little water or egg wash. This helps create a tight seal and prevents the filling from leaking out during baking. Pinch the edges firmly to ensure they are well-sealed.
Slits or Venting– Once the Stromboli is rolled and sealed, make a few small slits on top with a sharp knife. These slits allow steam to escape during baking, preventing the Stromboli from becoming too soggy.

Variations

Here are some delicious variations and ideas to customize your Stromboli recipe:

Vegetarian Delight– Create a vegetarian Stromboli by omitting the deli meats and focusing on flavorful vegetables. Use a combination of sautéed or roasted vegetables like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, eggplant, and mushrooms. Add some crumbled feta or goat cheese for tanginess and richness.
Breakfast Stromboli– Start your day right with a breakfast-inspired Stromboli. Fill it with scrambled eggs, cooked bacon or sausage, shredded cheese, and diced bell peppers. Serve with a side of salsa or hot sauce for an extra kick.
Spicy Tex-Mex– Spice things up with a Tex-Mex-inspired Stromboli. Fill it with cooked and seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken, diced jalapeños, black beans, corn, and shredded cheddar cheese. Serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream on the side.

Feel free to mix and match ingredients, experiment with flavors, and create your own unique Stromboli variations.

What To Serve With This Stromboli Recipe

When it comes to serving this Stromboli recipe, there are several accompaniments that can complement the dish and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some ideas for side dishes to serve with your Stromboli:

Marinara Sauce– Stromboli pairs wonderfully with marinara sauce for dipping. Serve a side of warm marinara sauce in small bowls or ramekins for guests to enjoy alongside their slices of Stromboli. The tangy and savory flavors of the sauce enhance the overall taste experience.
Burrata Salad– Prepare a fresh Italian salad to serve alongside your Stromboli. Combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, olives, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Toss with a simple vinaigrette made of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and Italian herbs. The refreshing salad provides a nice contrast to the warm and savory Stromboli.
Soup– Serve a bowl of hearty soup as a side dish to complement the Stromboli. Options like tomato soup, minestrone, or a simple vegetable soup pair well with the flavors of the dish. The combination of warm soup and a slice of Stromboli makes for a satisfying and comforting meal.

How Long Does It Last?

Stromboli is best enjoyed fresh, right after baking. However, if you have leftovers or want to prepare it in advance, it can be stored for a short period.

Store leftover Stromboli in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Properly stored, it can be refrigerated for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors and texture may not be as fresh as when it was freshly baked, but it should still be safe to consume within this timeframe.

Can You Freeze It?

If you want to store this Stromboli recipe for a longer period, it can be frozen. Wrap the Stromboli tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a resealable freezer bag or wrap it with aluminum foil. Frozen Stromboli can last for up to 2 to 3 months in the freezer.

When you’re ready to enjoy the refrigerated or frozen Stromboli, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Once thawed, reheat the Stromboli in a preheated oven at 350F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help restore some of the crispy texture and flavors.

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