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Benefits of This Preparation
Stromboli transforms ordinary pizza into a neat, sliceable roll. Each mouthful delivers gooey cheese, flavorful meats like pepperoni and salami, all wrapped in warm, crusty bread. It's perfect for gatherings, sports nights, or spicing up your regular dinner routine. Sometimes cheese bubbles out during baking - just like the Italian volcano it's named after!Ingredients List
- Pizza Dough: Homemade or grocery store options work fine
- Olive Oil: For coating the dough surface
- Garlic: Freshly chopped works best
- Oregano: Traditional Italian seasoning
- Red Pepper Flakes: Optional for those who don't enjoy spiciness
- Pecorino Romano: Tangy, aged Italian cheese
- Provolone: Smooth sliced cheese variety
- Ham: Standard sliced deli type
- Mozzarella: Provides that signature cheese pull
- Italian Meats: Pepperoni, salami
- Egg: Used as a finish
- Marinara: Served alongside for dipping
Preparation Instructions
- Heat oven:
- Set to 375°F. Line a large baking tray with parchment.
- Roll dough:
- Spread on floured surface into a 10x12 inch rectangle. Keep it thick enough to avoid holes.
- Oil it:
- Apply olive oil across the surface, leaving a 1-inch border clean for closing later.
- Add flavor:
- Distribute garlic, scatter oregano, add red pepper if desired, and sprinkle grated Pecorino.
- Layer stuff:
- Start with provolone slices, followed by ham, then mozzarella and Italian meats. Don't overload.
- Roll up:
- Paint edges with beaten egg. Fold lower third upward, top third downward. Press edges firmly closed.
- Let it rise:
- Transfer to baking sheet, loosely cover with plastic wrap. Rest for 1 hour until puffy.
- Get ready to bake:
- Remove plastic. Coat surface with egg wash. Make 5 tiny slits for steam escape.
- Bake it:
- Place in oven for 35 minutes until deep gold. Internal temp should reach 200°F.
- Cool and eat:
- Rest 15-20 minutes. Slice into 1-inch portions. Offer marinara for dipping if preferred.
About This Italian Roll
Stromboli began its story in Philadelphia as a rolled pizza creation. Imagine your top pizza toppings bundled inside dough rather than laid flat. Pair it with marinara sauce and you've got the ultimate gathering food. It vanishes from plates so quickly you'll barely see it go!Selecting Your Components
Begin with quality dough - homemade or purchased works well. Load it with delicious meats such as pepperoni and salami. Include provolone and mozzarella for that irresistible stretchy cheese moment. Add some garlic and oregano to capture authentic Italian flavors.Preparing Your Base
Stretch your dough on a floured counter into a rectangular shape. Keep it somewhat thick - it needs strength to contain all your fillings. Coat with olive oil to ensure everything stays juicy and flavorful. Sprinkle garlic and oregano directly onto the oil before adding cheese and meat layers.Assembly Process
Stack everything in sequence - cheese at the bottom, then meats, topped with more cheese. Distribute fillings uniformly for consistent flavor in every bite. Roll it like folding a letter and secure edges with egg mixture. The egg coating helps create that beautiful golden finish during baking.Cooking Your Creation
As it bakes at 375°F, watch for that gorgeous golden color. Don't worry if cheese escapes a bit! Allow it to cool slightly after removing from the oven so the cheese sets and you can cut nice, clean portions. Serve while still warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare this early?
Of course! You can put it together up to 12 hours ahead. Just keep it wrapped in the fridge. When you’re ready, bake it fresh. Save the egg wash and slits for right before it goes in the oven. Perfect for those busy mornings!
- → What’s the best way to save leftovers?
Wrap any uneaten pieces tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and leave them in the fridge. They’ll stay good for up to three days. Want easier reheating? Slice it into smaller portions first. Just don’t let air get to it, or it’ll dry out.
- → Can this be frozen?
Definitely! Skip cutting slits and egg-washing it beforehand. Wrap it super tight—start with plastic wrap, then add foil. It freezes for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, leave it to thaw overnight in the fridge. Add an egg wash, slice the top, and bake fresh.
- → What should I serve alongside?
A crisp green salad balances it out nicely. Garlic bread and marinara dipping sauce also pair perfectly. Having friends over? Slice it into smaller pieces and add pickled veggies or olives to the table for variety.
- → How do I reheat it best?
Turn your oven to 350°, and pop the stromboli on a baking tray. Heat it for 10-15 minutes or until it feels warm. If the top browns too much, cover it with foil. Need extra crunch? Broil for a minute at the end. Stay away from microwaves—they’ll make the bread soggy.
Conclusion
Enjoyed this stromboli? Check these out too:
- Stuffed Pizza Pockets: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella inside flaky dough
- Meatball Subs: All the classic flavors, sandwich-style
- Pizza Rolls: Bite-sized treats with cheese and pepperoni