There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy pepperoni stromboli fresh out of the oven. It’s the perfect combination of gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and golden, flaky crust that’ll have your family and friends begging for more. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick dinner, serving it as a party appetizer, or enjoying a cozy snack, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s get rolling (literally) and make the best cheesy pepperoni stromboli together!
Ingredients for Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this mouthwatering stromboli. Each ingredient plays its part to bring maximum flavor and perfect texture:
Dough
- 1 pound of pizza dough: Store-bought or homemade, this forms the foundation. Let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to make it easier to roll out.
Cheese
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese: This is the star of the show for that gooey, cheesy pull. Pro tip: freshly shred your mozzarella for the best melt.
- ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty kick to balance the flavors.
Meat
- 30-40 slices of pepperoni: Choose your favorite type—classic, spicy, or turkey pepperoni all work here.
Sauce
- ½ cup of marinara sauce: Use this as a dipping sauce on the side or spread a light layer inside for extra flavor.
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs to elevate the stromboli.
- ½ teaspoon of garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory touch.
Egg Wash
- 1 egg, beaten: Brushed on top for that gorgeous golden crust.
Optional Toppings
- Sesame seeds or more Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle on top for extra texture and flavor.
How to Make Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli
Follow these simple steps to create a stromboli that looks as good as it tastes:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, about 10×14 inches. Keep it even for consistent baking.
Step 3: Layer the Fillings
- Start by sprinkling mozzarella cheese across the surface of the dough, leaving about an inch of space around the edges.
- Add an even layer of pepperoni slices.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder over the pepperoni.
Step 4: Roll It Up
Starting from one of the longer sides, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seams and ends to seal everything inside.
Step 5: Prep for Baking
Place the stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the surface with the beaten egg and sprinkle any optional toppings like sesame seeds or Parmesan.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the stromboli is golden brown and the crust is fully cooked.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing into thick pieces. Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Equipment Needed
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or cooking spray
- Pastry brush (for the egg wash)
- Sharp knife for slicing
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-made pizza dough?
Absolutely! Pre-made pizza dough is a fantastic time-saver. Just let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before rolling to make it easier to handle.
Can I make stromboli ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the stromboli up to the baking step, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.
What other fillings can I use?
Get creative! Swap pepperoni for ham, sausage, or veggies. Add extras like mushrooms, spinach, or even a layer of ricotta for a twist.
How do I reheat leftovers?
To reheat, pop the slices in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or until warm. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the crust soggy.
Can I freeze stromboli?
Yes, you can! Wrap the baked stromboli tightly in foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until hot and crispy.
What’s the difference between stromboli and a calzone?
The key difference is in how they’re folded. Stromboli is rolled up like a log, while a calzone is folded into a pocket.
Can I make a vegetarian version?
Of course! Skip the pepperoni and load up on your favorite veggies like bell peppers, onions, and olives.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed this cheesy pepperoni stromboli recipe as much as I enjoyed sharing it! It’s simple to make, endlessly customizable, and always a hit. Don’t forget to share this post on Facebook or save it to Pinterest using the buttons below. Let me know in the comments how yours turned out—happy cooking!
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