Stage 1: Prepare the Dough
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle about 12 inches by 16 inches. Aim for an even thickness, but don’t worry if it’s not perfect—Stromboli is forgiving.
- Brush with Olive Oil: Brush the rolled dough lightly with olive oil to help it brown and get a golden, crispy crust.
Stage 2: Assemble the Stromboli
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough, leaving about an inch around the edges free of cheese.
- Layer the Fillings: Layer your desired fillings over the cheese. If using sausage, pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, and olives, distribute them evenly. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
- Season the Filling: Sprinkle dried oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the ingredients. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Add Marinara Sauce: If you like a saucy Stromboli, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the cheese and fillings. Be careful not to overdo it, as too much sauce can make the dough soggy.
Stage 3: Roll and Seal the Stromboli
- Roll the Stromboli: Starting from one of the longer sides, carefully roll the dough and its filling into a tight log, making sure to tuck in the edges as you go to keep the fillings from spilling out. Pinch the seams together at the ends and along the sides to seal the Stromboli.
- Place on the Baking Sheet: Transfer the rolled Stromboli to the prepared baking sheet. Place it seam-side down.
Stage 4: Bake the Stromboli
- Brush with Olive Oil: Brush the top of the Stromboli with a bit more olive oil to help it achieve a golden, crispy crust during baking.
- Make Slits: Use a sharp knife to make 3-4 small slits on the top of the Stromboli. This allows steam to escape while baking and helps the Stromboli cook evenly.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the Stromboli is golden brown and the cheese is melted inside. You can check doneness by tapping on the top—it should sound hollow.
Stage 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Cool Slightly: Let the Stromboli rest for about 5 minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the Stromboli into 1-inch thick pieces and serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. It’s also great with a salad on the side for a complete meal.
Additional Tips and Variations:
- Filling Variations: Feel free to get creative with your fillings. You can add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even pepper jack cheese for a spicier version. Use whatever deli meats or cheeses you prefer.
- Homemade Dough: If you want to make your dough from scratch, you can follow a basic pizza dough recipe. Let the dough rise before rolling it out for the best texture.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the Stromboli ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Let it come to room temperature before baking, or add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Freezing: You can freeze Stromboli before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
Italian Stromboli is a fun and delicious dish that combines the flavors of pizza with a hearty, satisfying filling. Its golden, crispy crust and savory interior make it a perfect choice for family meals, parties, or even a casual weeknight dinner. The best part is its versatility—fill it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy a homemade Italian classic!