Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli
This Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights or casual gatherings when you need a quick, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing meal. With its golden, crispy crust, gooey melted cheese, and savory pepperoni, it’s everything you love about pizza wrapped into a handheld delight.
Whether you’re hosting a movie night or just looking for a fun dinner idea, this stromboli is guaranteed to impress. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for feeding a hungry family or group of friends. Trust me—once you try it, it’ll become a regular in your recipe rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have.
- Family-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike.
- Customizable: Add your favorite pizza toppings to make it your own.
- Minimal Cleanup: One baking sheet is all you need.
I created this recipe on a whim for a last-minute movie night, and the rave reviews turned it into a household favorite. Now, my family requests it weekly, and even the pickiest eaters can’t resist!
Ingredients
For the Stromboli:
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup pepperoni slices
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For Finishing and Serving:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- ½ cup marinara sauce, warmed (for dipping)
How to Make Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position a rack in the middle.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the pizza dough into a rectangle approximately 10×14 inches. The dough should be thin enough to roll but sturdy enough to hold the fillings.
Step 3: Add the Fillings
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Layer the pepperoni slices over the cheese.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning over the top for added flavor.
Step 4: Roll the Stromboli
- Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a log shape. Tuck the ends in as you go to seal the filling.
- Pinch the seam tightly to ensure it stays closed during baking.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
- Place the stromboli seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush the top with the beaten egg to give it a golden, glossy finish.
- Use a sharp knife to cut 4-5 small slits diagonally across the top to allow steam to escape.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190°F. Rotate the pan halfway through for even browning.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
- Let the stromboli rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow the cheese to set slightly.
- Slice into 1-inch pieces and serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can cause the stromboli to burst during baking.
- Cutting Slits: The slits on top help release steam and prevent sogginess.
- Rest Before Slicing: Letting it rest ensures clean slices without the cheese oozing out.
- Extra Flavor: Brush the inside of the dough with garlic olive oil before adding the fillings for a flavor boost.
Creative Variations
- Meaty Delight: Swap pepperoni for cooked Italian sausage, ham, or shredded chicken.
- Veggie Lovers: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or caramelized onions.
- Cheese Explosion: Mix in provolone, fontina, or smoked mozzarella for extra cheesy goodness.
- Gourmet Twist: Try prosciutto, fresh basil, and sun-dried tomatoes for a sophisticated flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Make-Ahead and Storage Options
Make Ahead:
- Assemble the stromboli up to 24 hours in advance. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Let it come to room temperature for 20 minutes before baking, and add 5 extra minutes to the cook time.
Freezing:
- Freeze the unbaked stromboli on a baking sheet until firm, then wrap in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Bake from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Storing Leftovers:
- Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in an air fryer to maintain the crispy crust.
Serving Suggestions
While this stromboli is delicious on its own, pair it with these sides for a complete meal:
- Simple Salad: A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Soup Pairing: Serve with tomato basil soup for dipping instead of marinara.
- Antipasto Spread: Add olives, artichoke hearts, and roasted peppers for a party appetizer.
- Beverage Pairing: A glass of Chianti or a cold soda complements the flavors beautifully.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought dough saves time and works perfectly.
2. What can I use instead of pepperoni?
Try salami, ham, or even a veggie filling like mushrooms and spinach.
3. How do I keep it from getting soggy?
Avoid overfilling and make sure to cut slits for steam to escape.
4. Can I freeze stromboli?
Yes, you can freeze it whole or sliced. Just reheat in the oven until warm.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe is easy to double for feeding a crowd.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli is the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and savory. It’s a versatile dish that works for weeknight dinners, casual parties, or even meal prep. With its golden crust, gooey cheese, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a staple in your home.
Serve it with a side salad or soup, and watch as your family and friends devour every last slice. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or impressing guests, this stromboli is always a winner. Enjoy!
