Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe
If you’re looking for a show-stopping dinner that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious, Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli is the answer! Imagine bubbling, golden cheese, spicy pepperoni, and a touch of herby Italian flavor all wrapped up in flaky pizza dough—each slice a party for your taste buds. This dish is impossibly simple to throw together, yet the beautiful spirals and melty middle make it feel surprisingly impressive. Whether you’re planning a cozy family night or need a crowd-pleasing snack, this savory masterpiece will quickly become your new favorite comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about how downright simple yet essential each ingredient is for Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli. Every component plays a starring role in adding something special—whether it’s gooeyness from the cheese or boldness from the pepperoni, you’ll taste the difference in every bite.
- Pizza Dough: Store-bought or homemade, this is the fluffy, chewy foundation for your stromboli—don’t skip letting it rest if homemade for ultimate stretchiness!
- Pizza Sauce: Adds that tangy, herb-loaded kick; don’t be shy about using your favorite jarred or homemade blend here.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The glorious, gooey star that melts into every swirl; freshly shredded melts and tastes best.
- Sliced Pepperoni: Gives you smoky, spicy flavor in every bite—stack them generously for the best results.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: This adds salty, nutty zip and helps the top get extra crispy golden.
- Italian Seasoning: A mix of oregano, basil, and savory herbs infuses that classic pizzeria aroma and taste.
- Egg (for egg wash): Brushed over the top for an irresistible, bakery-style sheen and some extra crunch.
- Optional: Red Pepper Flakes, Fresh Parsley for Garnish: Red pepper flakes add heat, and fresh parsley gives a bright pop of color—use both, either, or neither!
How to Make Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Workspace
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—you’ll be grateful for breezy cleanup later! Lightly flour your work surface so the pizza dough won’t stick, which makes rolling and shaping so much easier. Having everything set up before you start ensures your Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli comes together without a hitch.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
Using a rolling pin, work your pizza dough into a big, even rectangle, about 12 by 14 inches. If the dough resists or shrinks back, let it rest for a few minutes—it’s just relaxing! This rectangle is the canvas for all the cheesy, saucy goodness to come, so try to keep it as even as possible for uniform rolling later.
Step 3: Layer on the Flavors
Spread your pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about a one-inch border on all sides. This sauce barrier keeps things tidy and prevents spillover. Shower on the shredded mozzarella next, then create a happy layer of pepperoni slices, sprinkle the grated Parmesan, and finish with a dusting of Italian seasoning. Don’t hesitate to tuck in any extras like sautéed veggies or more cheese if you’re feeling adventurous!
Step 4: Roll Up and Seal
Starting with a long edge, gently but tightly roll the dough into a neat log, as if you’re making a giant cinnamon roll. Tuck the edges under as you finish, creating a little stromboli bundle. Transfer it, seam side down, to your prepared baking sheet—the seam below keeps everything sealed while baking.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Vent
Brush the top and sides with that lovely beaten egg to give your Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli a golden, appetizing shine. Use a sharp knife to score 4–5 small slits along the top; this lets steam escape and prevents any accidental dough blowouts.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide your stromboli into the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. The dough will puff up and turn gorgeous deep gold, while the inside becomes molten and savory. If you want an extra crispy crust, try baking on a pizza stone. Cooling for five minutes lets the cheese settle—trust me, it’ll be easier (and neater) to slice!
Step 7: Slice and Garnish
Using a sharp serrated knife, slice your Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli into thick rounds. Go wild with garnishes: a shower of fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes does wonders for both flavor and presentation. Serve warm, with a bowl of extra pizza sauce as the ultimate dip.
How to Serve Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli
Garnishes
Freshly sliced parsley gives a pop of color and freshness that brightens the whole dish, while a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a bold kick for those who love a little heat. Grated Parmesan over the top right as it comes out of the oven is also divine—think of it as a little cheesy snow shower!
Side Dishes
Pair your stromboli slices with a bright green salad, a handful of antipasto, or some roasted veggies to balance out the cheesy, meaty filling. For something heartier, serve alongside a cup of soup or a bowl of pasta. There’s really no wrong answer; Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli fits in joyfully with almost any comfort meal lineup.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn stromboli into party pinwheels by slicing it into smaller rounds and arranging them on a big platter with toothpicks—watch them disappear! Or, for a dramatic presentation, serve it whole with a sharp knife and let everyone cut their own slice. For game day, provide a trio of dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, and garlic butter for a do-it-your-way experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli tightly in foil or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to three days—just be sure to reheat before serving for ultimate melty cheese.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead or save leftovers, Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli freezes like a dream. Slice it or freeze it whole, wrapped well with plastic wrap and foil. It’ll keep for up to two months; just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To restore that perfect crispy crust and gooey center, reheat stromboli slices in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. The microwave works in a pinch, but the oven keeps the outside delightfully crisp. Always make sure each piece is warmed through to enjoy the full stromboli experience.
FAQs
Can I use different fillings in my Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment—try adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, cooked sausage, or even olives. Just remember not to overload with wet ingredients, which can make the dough soggy.
What’s the best way to keep stromboli from splitting open?
Be sure you’re rolling the dough tightly but not too tight. Tuck the ends under and always place the seam side down before baking. Don’t forget to make those top slits, so steam can escape easily.
Can I make Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli ahead of time?
You sure can! Assemble the stromboli, wrap it well, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes of baking time to ensure it cooks through evenly.
What’s the difference between stromboli and calzone?
Great question! A calzone is typically a folded half-moon shape and sealed at the edges, while stromboli is rolled into a log and sliced. Stromboli often has a more layered look with spiral fillings and is easier to slice into party-friendly pieces.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Of course! Simply leave out the pepperoni, and load up with extra cheese or veggies. Try spinach, roasted mushrooms, or bell peppers for a satisfyingly meat-free twist on the classic Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli.
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve made Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli just once, you’ll find endless excuses to bake it again and again. It’s the kind of crowd-pleaser that’s fun to build, beautiful to serve, and impossible to resist. Gather your favorite people, slice it up, and watch your kitchen turn into the happiest pizzeria in town!
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Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli is a delicious twist on traditional pizza, filled with gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and Italian seasonings, all rolled up in a golden-brown crust.
Ingredients
Pizza Dough:
1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Pizza Sauce:
1/2 cup
Mozzarella Cheese:
1 1/2 cups shredded
Pepperoni:
1/2 cup sliced
Parmesan Cheese:
1/4 cup grated
Italian Seasoning:
1 teaspoon
Egg Wash:
1 egg, beaten
Optional:
red pepper flakes, fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the pizza dough into a 12×14-inch rectangle.
- Add toppings: Spread pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning over the dough.
- Roll the dough: Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log and place seam side down on the baking sheet.
- Brush with egg wash: Brush the top with beaten egg, make slits, and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
- Rest and garnish: Let it rest before slicing and garnish with red pepper flakes or fresh parsley.
- Serve: Serve with extra pizza sauce for dipping.
Notes
- You can customize the fillings with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or cooked sausage.
- For a crispier crust, bake on a preheated pizza stone.
- Stromboli can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking—adjust bake time accordingly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 stromboli)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 13 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
