If you’re on the hunt for a mouthwatering Italian-American treat that’s perfect for parties, game nights, or family dinners, this Classic Stromboli Recipe will win you over in a single bite. Picture slices of pillowy pizza dough rolled around layers of gooey cheese, savory deli meats, and zesty marinara, all topped with a golden, cheesy crust. Every slice is an explosion of flavor and fun—there’s a reason this classic never goes out of style.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love about this Classic Stromboli Recipe is how each ingredient adds something unique—whether it’s richness, a pop of color, or a comforting aroma. The beauty of stromboli lies in using simple, familiar ingredients and turning them into something spectacular.
- Pizza dough (1 pound): The soft, chewy base that holds all those delicious fillings together—use store-bought for speed or homemade for an extra touch.
- Marinara sauce (1/2 cup, plus more for dipping): Gives each bite a saucy, tangy kick and keeps the layers moist.
- Provolone cheese (6 slices): Melts beautifully for a creamy layer and a mellow, cheesy backbone.
- Deli ham (12 slices): Adds sweet, savory flavor and hearty protein to every slice.
- Genoa salami (12 slices): Brings a bold, peppery punch that elevates the whole stromboli.
- Pepperoni (1/4 cup sliced): For just a hint of spice and classic pizzeria nostalgia.
- Italian seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses the rolls with fragrant herbs and that signature Italian taste.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Adds subtle warmth and irresistible aroma.
- Egg (1, beaten): Creates that gorgeous, glossy finish when brushed over the dough.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1 tablespoon): For an extra-savory, golden crust.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped, optional): A fresh, colorful garnish (totally optional but worth it for that vibrant pop on top).
How to Make Classic Stromboli Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This crucial step ensures your Classic Stromboli Recipe cooks evenly and pops right off the tray (no sticking nightmares!).
Step 2: Roll out the Dough
Lightly flour your countertop and roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, about 10 by 14 inches. Don’t stress too much about perfect edges—a rustic look is part of the stromboli charm, and rolling to even thickness makes for the best bite.
Step 3: Sauce and Layer
Spoon a thin layer of marinara sauce over the dough, taking care to leave a one-inch border all around. This helps your Classic Stromboli Recipe stay neat and not explode in the oven. Next, layer on the provolone, ham, salami, and a scatter of pepperoni so each slice gets a little of everything.
Step 4: Season It Up
Sprinkle the Italian seasoning and garlic powder evenly across your meats and cheese. These next-level flavor boosters amplify every bite and give that distinct, pizzeria-style aroma as it bakes.
Step 5: Roll and Shape
Now comes the fun part: starting with a long edge, gently roll the dough into a snug log, tucking the ends as you go. Place the roll seam-side-down on your prepared baking sheet so it keeps its shape as it bakes. It’s basically a present that unwraps itself when you slice in!
Step 6: Egg Wash and Toppings
Brush the top of your rolled stromboli with beaten egg. It gives that beautiful, shiny crust. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan for extra flavor, then use a sharp knife to cut a few small slits on top to let steam escape and prevent sogginess.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the insides are bubbling with cheesy, meaty goodness. Your kitchen will smell absolutely irresistible.
Step 8: Rest and Slice
This is the hardest part—waiting! Let your stromboli rest for 5 to 10 minutes after baking. This ensures clean slices and helps the fillings set. If you like, shower the top with a little chopped parsley for a burst of green.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Slice your Classic Stromboli Recipe into thick rounds and serve hot, with extra marinara for dipping. The only thing left is to watch it disappear—seconds are basically mandatory!
How to Serve Classic Stromboli Recipe
Garnishes
Stromboli loves a flourish! Freshly chopped parsley or basil adds color and freshness right before serving. For a touch of crunch, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan right out of the oven is pure bliss. Fancy it up with a little drizzle of olive oil—you’ll be amazed how these tiny touches make your Classic Stromboli Recipe look and taste even better.
Side Dishes
This stromboli is a star on its own but truly shines with the right sides. Crisp Italian salads, garlic knots, or roasted veggies are wonderful partners. Even a simple mixed greens salad with a sharp vinaigrette adds color and balances the rich flavors of the stromboli beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining, slice the Classic Stromboli Recipe into bite-sized portions and arrange them on a large platter with little bowls of warm marinara for dipping. For family dinner, serve whole slices on a wooden board for that rustic, homey vibe. If you’re on the go or meal-prepping, stromboli slices fit neatly into lunchboxes—for adults and kids alike!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you managed to save any, wrap leftover Classic Stromboli Recipe slices in foil or plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to three days. They hold up perfectly and taste just as great the next day, sometimes even better as the flavors mingle.
Freezing
You can freeze your stromboli, whole or sliced! Wrap tightly in plastic and then in foil, and stash in the freezer for up to two months. It’s a lifesaver to have on hand for quick lunches or surprise guests. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To recapture that just-baked texture, reheat slices of the Classic Stromboli Recipe in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through and crispy. Microwaving works in a pinch, but for best results, the oven brings that crust back to life.
FAQs
Can I use different meats or cheeses in the Classic Stromboli Recipe?
Absolutely! Try roast turkey, chicken, or even a veggie filling with sautéed mushrooms, peppers, and spinach. Mozzarella and fontina also melt beautifully if you want to mix things up.
My dough keeps shrinking when I roll it—help?
If the dough resists stretching or snaps back, cover it with a towel and let it rest for 10 minutes. This gives the gluten time to relax, making the dough much easier to roll out evenly.
What’s the best way to prevent sogginess?
Keep the marinara layer thin and make sure to leave a clean border around the edges. Also, those small slits on top help steam escape, ensuring a crisp, non-soggy stromboli every time.
Can I make the Classic Stromboli Recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! Assemble the stromboli up to a day in advance, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, brush on the egg wash and pop it in the oven as directed.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Kids love the melty cheese and customizable fillings! You can even let them help with layering and rolling for a fun kitchen project. Switch up the ingredients to their tastes—everyone wins.
Final Thoughts
Make this Classic Stromboli Recipe once, and you’ll find yourself craving it again and again. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing bake that brings everyone to the table with smiles. Grab your dough, pick your favorite fillings, and dive in—homemade stromboli is comfort food at its best waiting to happen in your oven.
Print
Classic Stromboli Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the flavors of a classic Stromboli with this easy-to-follow recipe. A delicious rolled sandwich filled with layers of meats, cheese, and seasonings, all baked to perfection in a golden crust. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients
Pizza Dough:
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Fillings:
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus more for dipping)
- 6 slices provolone cheese
- 12 slices deli ham
- 12 slices Genoa salami
- 1/4 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Additional:
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out the pizza dough into a 10×14-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
- Add Fillings: Spread marinara sauce, layer cheeses and meats, sprinkle seasonings over the dough.
- Roll and Bake: Roll the dough tightly, brush with egg, sprinkle with Parmesan, bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
- Rest and Serve: Let the Stromboli cool for 5–10 minutes, garnish with parsley, and slice. Serve with extra marinara sauce.
Notes
- Customize fillings with your favorite meats and cheeses.
- Stromboli can be reheated in the oven for leftovers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
