Italian Stromboli Pizza Roll

Italian Stromboli is my family’s go to when we want something crowd pleasing without spending hours in the kitchen This cheesy meat filled roll makes a fun dinner and is always a hit at parties or movie nights

Ingredients

• Refrigerated pizza crust: Choose a fresh dough for the best texture
• Pizza sauce: Use a good quality jarred or homemade sauce for richest flavor
• Thinly sliced deli ham: Adds savory flavor and stays tender after baking
• Sliced deli salami: Brings a peppery bite to the filling
• Sliced deli pepperoni: Classic for that pizza shop flavor
• Grated mozzarella cheese: Freshly grated melts best and gives that perfect cheesy pull
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses each bite with classic aromas
• Butter melted: Brushed on top for a golden crisp crust
• Garlic powder: Sprinkled for extra kick
• Dried parsley: Finishes the top with color and herby aroma

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven:

Set your oven to four hundred degrees and let it preheat fully for even baking

Shape the Dough:

Roll out the pizza dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper Gently stretch it into an even rectangle so the fillings spread without tearing

Layer the Fillings:

Brush about a quarter cup of pizza sauce over the dough Then lay down the ham and sprinkle one cup of cheese Add a salami layer then more cheese Repeat with pepperoni and the rest of the cheese Finish with a dusting of Italian seasoning

Roll and Seal:

Starting on a long edge carefully roll the dough up so you get layers of meat and cheese Pinch the seams all around and underneath to keep everything inside

Top and Vent:

Brush the melted butter all over the rolled dough Generously sprinkle with garlic powder and dried parsley Cut small slits on top using a sharp knife so steam can escape and the crust stays crisp

Bake:

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about twenty minutes The Stromboli is ready when the crust is deep golden and firm when tapped

Rest and Slice:

Let the baked Stromboli sit for five minutes out of the oven This helps the cheese set so you get cleaner slices

Serve:

Cut into generous slices and serve with warm pizza sauce for dipping We always put out extra sauce for dunkers

Save

I always look forward to the golden cheesy stretch in every slice Fresh mozzarella turns every bite into gooey bliss and my son says it is better than takeout

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days To reheat pop slices in a hot oven so the crust stays crisp Avoid the microwave if you can since it softens the crust

Ingredient Substitutions

Try turkey or roast beef instead of ham for a lighter taste Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or onions for more flavor Pepper Jack or provolone change up the cheese profile and work beautifully

Serving Suggestions

This Stromboli makes a hearty lunch with a salad on the side It is also perfect served at a party as finger food For a family dinner pair it with a bowl of minestrone or a light veggie soup

Save

Cultural and Historical Context

While Stromboli is American Italian it takes its name from the famous Italian volcano Its origins stretch back to Italian immigrants adapting their favorite pizza and sandwich concepts for the US Stromboli has become a beloved comfort food across the country

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use homemade pizza dough?

Absolutely, homemade dough adds a personal touch and can result in an even flakier exterior. Just roll it out to a rectangle before filling.

→ What other fillings work well?

Add roasted vegetables, sautéed mushrooms, or swap in different cheeses such as provolone or fontina for unique flavors.

→ How do I keep the crust crispy?

Brushing the crust with melted butter before baking and using parchment prevent sogginess. Cutting slits helps steam escape for a golden finish.

→ Is it necessary to let it rest before slicing?

Resting allows cheese to set and makes slicing much easier, helping to keep all the delicious layers intact.

→ Can this be served cold or reheated?

It tastes great warm or at room temperature. For reheating, a quick turn in the oven restores crispness.