Homemade Stromboli is a fun and tasty dish that wraps stuffed dough around your favorite fillings! Think of it like a big, cozy sandwich rolled up with meats, cheese, and veggies all snuggled inside.
It’s super easy to make and perfect for sharing. My family loves to dip it in marinara sauce while I sneak a slice before dinner. Trust me, it disappears fast, so be ready to make more! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This is your base for the dough. If you prefer, you can use bread flour for a chewier texture or whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste. Just keep an eye on the water ratio if you change the type!
Active dry yeast: Yeast makes the dough rise beautifully. If you’re out, instant yeast works too—just use it directly with the flour without dissolving first.
Pepperoni, salami, ham: These are classic fillings, but you can switch them out based on your taste. Turkey or veggie sausage, grilled chicken, or roasted veggies make great alternatives!
Cheese: Mozzarella is a must for that melty goodness, but you can mix in provolone or even cheddar for a different flavor. Vegan cheese works well as a substitute if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Marinara sauce: This adds a nice zing, but any pasta sauce will do in a pinch. Homemade is great, or you can opt for pesto for a fun twist!
How Do You Make the Perfect Dough?
Getting your dough right is crucial for a delicious Stromboli. Here’s how to achieve that perfect, stretchy dough.
- Activate the yeast: Dissolving the yeast with sugar in warm water wakes it up. Make sure it gets foamy—that means it’s working!
- Kneading: Knead your dough for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If it feels sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour but avoid overdoing it.
- Rising: Allow the dough to rise in a warm spot, doubling in size. Don’t rush this step; it’s what makes your Stromboli light and fluffy.
Your patience is key here! Following these steps will give you a lovely, buttery dough that’s perfect for wrapping up delicious fillings.
Homemade Stromboli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Filling:
- 6 oz sliced pepperoni
- 6 oz sliced salami
- 6 oz sliced ham or capicola
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce (plus extra for serving)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or oregano
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Optional: fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This homemade Stromboli takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes total. You will spend about 15 minutes preparing the dough and filling, followed by around 1 hour of rising time. Finally, baking will take another 25-30 minutes. Worth the wait for that deliciousness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in the warm water. Wait for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This means your yeast is active!
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together. Then add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until it forms a rough dough.
3. Knead the Dough:
Lightly flour a surface and knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. This helps develop the gluten for a nice texture.
4. Let the Dough Rise:
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a towel or plastic wrap and leave it in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
5. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to preheat at 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
6. Roll Out the Dough:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently. Roll it out on a floured surface to create a large rectangle, about 12×16 inches.
7. Add the Sauce:
Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. This keeps the filling from spilling out!
8. Layer the Fillings:
Now, layer your sliced pepperoni, salami, ham, and mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and Italian seasoning evenly over the top.
9. Roll It Up:
Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log shape. Make sure to pinch the edges and ends to seal it so nothing spills out.
10. Bake the Stromboli:
Place the stromboli seam side down on your prepared baking sheet. Beat the egg and brush it over the top for a golden crust. Use a sharp knife to cut a few small slits on top for steam to escape.
11. Finish Baking:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.
12. Let It Cool:
Once done, remove the Stromboli from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to slice.
13. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil if you like. Serve warm with additional marinara sauce for dipping. Dig in and enjoy your homemade Stromboli—crispy on the outside, cheesy and flavorful inside!
Can I Use Store-Bought Dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a great shortcut. Just roll it out and proceed with the layers of sauce and fillings. Follow the baking instructions based on the dough’s package.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Stromboli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place slices in the microwave or warm them in the oven for a few minutes until heated through.
Can I Freeze Stromboli?
Yes, you can freeze Stromboli! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes to heat through.
What Other Fillings Can I Use?
The possibilities are endless! Feel free to substitute the meats for grilled chicken, veggies, or even cooked spinach and feta for a vegetarian option. Just keep the overall filling volume similar for best results!