This stromboli is your new best friend for busy weeknights or when you need a wow-factor dish that’s actually super simple to pull off. Roll up your sleeves and get the family in on the action too; it’s a fun, mess-around-in-the-kitchen kind of meal that lets everyone throw in their two cents on fillings. Trust me, making this stromboli might just be as fun as eating it!

If you love these classic pizza flavors as much as I do, you will absolutely love our calzones and of course, our pepperoni pizza and salami pizza!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Mix and match your favorite meats, cheeses, and veggies.
  • Easy to make with simple instructions and straightforward ingredients.
  • Meal prep friendly with leftovers that reheat well.
  • Ultimate comfort food appeal with warm bread and gooey cheese.
A hand dipping a stromboli into pizza sauce.

Italian Meat Stromboli Recipe

This stromboli bursts with the rich flavors of savory Italian meats and gooey mozzarella, all encased in a golden, crispy exterior with a soft, airy inside – and dipped in tangy pizza sauce. The harmonious blend of spices from the cold cuts, melded with the smoothness of the cheese and the slight acidity of the sauce is deliciously satisfying, and perfectly balances the hearty fillings with the light, airy dough.

How to Customize Stromboli Add-Ins

The classic Italian meat stromboli is just the beginning. Tailor your stromboli with a variety of meats, cheeses, and veggies to keep things exciting.

  • Meats: Swap traditional cold cuts with cooked chicken, spicy chorizo, or crumbled sausage for different flavors. Prosciutto adds a salty edge, perfect for those looking for a gourmet twist.
  • Cheeses: Branch out from mozzarella with sharp provolone, smoky gouda, or creamy ricotta. Plant-based cheeses are also great for dairy-free diets, mimicking the beloved gooey texture.
  • Veggies: Elevate your stromboli with colorful veggies like sautéed bell peppers, onions, spinach, or artichokes. Mushrooms add umami, while fresh basil lends a burst of flavor.

Remember, the trick is not to overload your stromboli; balance your fillings for a perfect bake every time. This streamlined approach lets you explore new tastes while keeping your stromboli easy to handle and delicious.

Using Store-Bought Dough

In a hurry? Store-bought dough is a great option! Since store-bought dough has already risen, begin with rolling out the dough directly. If the dough has been refrigerated, let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before rolling. This ensures it’s pliable and easier to handle, allowing you to smoothly transition into assembling your stromboli with your favorite fillings.

A collage of four images showing stromboli dough rolled out, with cheese and meats on top, rolling it up, and fully rolled up before baking.

Troubleshooting

  • Dough is too sticky: Continue to add flour one tablespoon at a time until the dough is tacky but not overly sticky, and ensure hands and surface are floured when handling the dough.
  • Crust is getting too dark:Cover the stromboli with foil if it’s browning too quickly in the oven. Place it in the middle or lower rack of the oven to prevent the top from burning.

Tips From the Chef

  • Seal the edges of your Stromboli tightly to keep the fillings contained and your dough from getting soggy.
  • Allow the Stromboli to rest for a few minutes after baking for easier slicing.
  • Serve stromboli with pizza sauce for dipping.
Close up overhead view of Italian stromboli.

Make Ahead Instructions

Making your Italian Stromboli in advance is a great way to save time and still enjoy a delicious meal. Here’s how you can prep your stromboli ahead of time:

  • Preparing the Dough: If you’re starting with homemade dough, you can prepare it up to 2 days before you plan to make your stromboli. Simply wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to use it, let the dough sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before rolling it out. This step ensures the dough is pliable and easy to work with.
  • Assembling Ahead: Fully assemble your stromboli with all your chosen fillings, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. If you’re planning to bake it within 24 hours, store it in the refrigerator.
  • Freezing: For longer storage, wrap your assembled, uncooked stromboli first in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, there’s no need to thaw; simply adjust the baking time accordingly, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Let the stromboli cool completely to prevent soggy crust from condensation.

To refrigerate: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or place in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer Storage: Wrap in plastic, then aluminum foil. Freezes well for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

  • Oven/Toaster Oven (Preferred Method):
    • Preheat to 350°F.
    • Unwrap and place on a baking sheet.
    • From the fridge: Heat 10-15 minutes.
    • From the freezer: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then heat as above.
  • Microwave:
    • Remove wrapping. For a crisper crust, wrap in a damp paper towel.
    • From the fridge: Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes.
    • From the freezer: Thaw first, then microwave on high for 3-4 minutes.

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