Introduction
Italian Stromboli is a delicious rolled pizza that is filled with a variety of ingredients, providing a unique take on traditional pizza. This savory dish is perfect for gatherings, game days, or a cozy family dinner. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite fillings, making it a versatile choice for any meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Pizza dough – 1 pound
Mozzarella cheese – 2 cups, shredded
Pepperoni – 1 cup
Bell peppers – 1/2 cup, chopped
Onions – 1/2 cup, chopped
Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
Garlic powder – 1/2 teaspoon
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Parmesan cheese – 1/4 cup, grated
Egg – 1, beaten (for egg wash)
Prep Time
Prep time for this Italian Stromboli recipe is approximately 15 minutes. This includes gathering all your ingredients and preparing your fillings for the roll.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is around 25 to 30 minutes. Therefore, the total time from preparation to serving is approximately 45 minutes. This recipe yields one large Stromboli, which can serve 4 to 6 people, depending on portion sizes.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking your Stromboli.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to create a rectangular shape approximately 12×16 inches.
Step 3: Add Fillings
Spread a layer of marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Then, add your preferred fillings such as sliced meats, cheeses, and vegetables evenly on top of the sauce.
Step 4: Roll the Dough
Carefully roll the dough starting from one long edge, tucking the fillings in as you go to create a log shape. Pinch the edges to seal the Stromboli.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Sheet
Place the rolled Stromboli seam side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure there is enough space between each Stromboli if you are baking multiple.
Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash
In a small bowl, beat an egg and brush it over the top of the Stromboli to give it a golden finish while baking.
Step 7: Make Slits
Using a sharp knife, make several slits on top of the Stromboli to allow steam to escape during baking.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the Stromboli is golden brown and cooked through.
Step 9: Cool and Slice
Remove the Stromboli from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice into pieces and serve with additional marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
Note 1: Dough Options
You can use homemade pizza dough or store-bought for a quicker preparation.
Note 2: Variety of Fillings
Feel free to customize the fillings based on your preferences or leftovers. Popular options include pepperoni, ham, bell peppers, and mozzarella cheese.
Note 3: Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Note 4: Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
Cook techniques
Rolling the Dough
Gently roll the dough to ensure it has a uniform thickness, which helps in even cooking and allows for better filling distribution.
Layering Filling
Be sure to layer your filling ingredients evenly, leaving a border around the edges to prevent overflow during baking.
Sealing the Edges
Pinch and fold the edges of the dough securely to ensure the filling does not escape while baking.
Baking Temperature
Bake your Stromboli at a high temperature for a crispy crust while ensuring the interior is thoroughly cooked.
Cooling Before Slicing
Allow the Stromboli to cool for a few minutes before slicing to retain its shape and prevent the filling from spilling out.
FAQ
Can I use pre-made dough for Stromboli?
Yes, you can use pre-made pizza or bread dough to save time.
How do I know when my Stromboli is done?
Your Stromboli is done when it has a golden-brown crust and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
What kind of fillings can I use?
You can use a variety of fillings including meats, cheeses, vegetables, and sauces according to your taste preference.
Can I freeze Stromboli?
Yes, you can freeze Stromboli before or after baking. Just ensure it is tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
How do I reheat leftover Stromboli?
Reheat Stromboli in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through to maintain the texture.
Conclusion
The Italian Stromboli is a delightful and adaptable dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its layers of savory ingredients wrapped in golden-brown dough, it makes for an impressive presentation at gatherings or a comforting meal at home. You can customize the filling to suit your taste, making it a versatile option for everyone.
Meat Lover’s Stromboli
Combine pepperoni, sausage, and ham for a hearty meat-packed version that will satisfy any carnivore’s cravings.
Vegetarian Stromboli
Fill your stromboli with a mix of grilled vegetables, ricotta, and mozzarella for a fresh and colorful dish that celebrates seasonal produce.
Mediterranean Stromboli
Incorporate ingredients like feta cheese, spinach, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes for a delicious Mediterranean twist.
BBQ Chicken Stromboli
Use shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, and cheddar cheese for a sweet and tangy flavor that elevates the traditional recipe.
Cheesy Garlic Bread Stromboli
Create a breadsticks-inspired version packed with garlic butter and a blend of cheeses for the ultimate cheesy treat.
Breakfast Stromboli
Start your day right by filling your stromboli with scrambled eggs, breakfast sausage, and cheese for a satisfying breakfast option.
Sweet Stromboli
Experiment with dessert by filling your stromboli with Nutella and sliced bananas or cinnamon and apples for a sweet treat.