Quick Benefits
Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli is a quick and easy Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for family dinners, game nights, or casual get-togethers. The combination of gooey mozzarella, spicy pepperoni, and crispy golden crust makes it an irresistible meal. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping to complete the experience.
Essential Ingredients
Dough and Fillings
- 1 pizza dough, rolled into a rectangle on a floured surface
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup pepperoni, sliced
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Finishing and Serving
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce, for dipping
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle on a floured surface.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Layer the pepperoni slices over the cheese.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning over the pepperoni.
- Carefully roll the dough from one long side to the other, tucking the ends in as you go.
- Place the stromboli seam-side down on a greased baking sheet. Brush the top with the beaten egg to give it a golden brown finish.
- Cut a few small slits on the top to allow steam to escape.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving with marinara sauce for dipping.
Health Benefits
While stromboli is a hearty comfort food, using part-skim mozzarella and lean pepperoni can reduce the calorie count. Cheese provides protein and calcium, while the tomato-based marinara sauce offers antioxidants like lycopene.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stromboli sliced into thick portions with a side of warm marinara sauce. Pair it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Creative Variations
- Veggie Stromboli: Swap pepperoni for sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions.
- BBQ Chicken Stromboli: Replace marinara with BBQ sauce and add shredded chicken and cheddar cheese.
- Breakfast Stromboli: Fill with scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese for a morning twist.
Storage Tips
Store leftover stromboli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes for best results.
Pro Tips
- Use parchment paper on the baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Let the stromboli cool slightly before slicing to keep the cheese from oozing out.
- Brush the top with garlic butter after baking for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I freeze stromboli? A: Yes, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
Q: Can I use store-bought pizza dough? A: Absolutely! Store-bought dough works great and saves time.
Q: Can I make stromboli ahead of time? A: Yes, assemble it ahead and store it unbaked in the fridge. Bake just before serving.
Print Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli: A Savory and Satisfying Comfort Food
Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli is a delicious Italian-inspired dish that combines gooey mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and a crispy, golden-brown crust. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for family dinners or game-day gatherings. Serve it hot with marinara sauce for dipping and enjoy the ultimate cheesy indulgence.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
Dough and Fillings
- 1 pizza dough, rolled into a rectangle on a floured surface
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup pepperoni, sliced
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Finishing and Serving
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce, for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle on a floured surface.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Layer the pepperoni slices over the cheese.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning over the pepperoni.
- Carefully roll the dough from one long side to the other, tucking the ends in as you go.
- Place the stromboli seam-side down on a greased baking sheet. Brush the top with the beaten egg to give it a golden brown finish.
- Cut a few small slits on the top to allow steam to escape.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving with marinara sauce for dipping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350 per serving
