Introduction & Inspiration

Some of the best meals come from moments when we need something quick, comforting, and satisfying. That’s exactly where this Easy Stromboli Dinner Recipe comes in. It’s my go-to solution for busy evenings or when I want to impress guests with minimal effort.

Nostalgic Appeal

This dish always brings me back to my childhood, sitting around the dinner table with family. My mom used to make a version of this using leftover deli meats and slices of mozzarella. It was her way of making sure nothing went to waste, but it always felt like a treat.

Now, as an adult, I realize how brilliant that was. Turning basic ingredients into something that tastes like it came from an Italian deli? That’s magic. Every time I take a bite, I get a little flash of those cozy weeknights from years ago.

Even if you didn’t grow up eating stromboli, I think there’s something inherently nostalgic about it. Maybe it’s the pizza-like flavors, or maybe it’s just the act of slicing into that crusty roll and seeing all those layers. Either way, it feels like home.

Homemade Focus

While you can find stromboli at many pizzerias, making it at home is a game-changer. First of all, it’s much cheaper. But more importantly, you control everything — the dough, the filling, the spice level.

I’ve experimented with store-bought dough and homemade versions. Both work well, but there’s something deeply satisfying about rolling out your own dough and creating something from scratch. Even the act of brushing garlic butter across the dough feels intentional and rewarding.

Plus, homemade stromboli lets you adapt the recipe for dietary needs or personal preferences. Whether you’re going vegetarian or loading it with extra cheese, you’re the chef. That flexibility is what makes this recipe so special.

Flavor Goal

The goal here is bold, melty, and mouthwatering. When you bite into this stromboli, I want you to taste layers — from the salty ham to the spicy pepperoni, balanced by creamy mozzarella.

The garlic butter brushed over the dough before and after baking adds a rich, aromatic touch. It not only boosts flavor but also gives the crust that golden, slightly crispy finish that’s so satisfying.

And let’s not forget the marinara sauce. That warm, tangy dip brings everything together and adds a bright contrast to the richness inside. Every element is there to make you go back for seconds (and thirds).

Ingredient Insights

Let’s talk about the ingredients that make this stromboli shine. The dough is the foundation — soft on the inside, crisp on the outside. It’s essential to roll it just right, not too thin, so it holds the filling without tearing.

Butter is used in two key ways. Melted butter with garlic creates a fragrant base layer and also forms the flavorful glaze on top. It gives the stromboli richness and sheen.

Garlic, both fresh and in powder form, adds depth. Fresh garlic is minced and mixed with butter for brushing. Garlic powder gets combined with Parmesan and parsley to form a topping crust.

Mozzarella is the melting star — stretchy, gooey, and mild enough to let the meats shine. Ham adds a slight sweetness, salami gives a punch of spice, and pepperoni finishes with its smoky boldness.

Lastly, an egg is brushed onto the dough before rolling to help it seal. And Parmesan and parsley sprinkled on top offer a nutty, herby finish. Every ingredient plays a role in taste and texture.

Essential Equipment

You won’t need fancy gadgets for this recipe. A rolling pin helps flatten the dough into the perfect shape. If you don’t have one, a wine bottle can work in a pinch.

Parchment paper or a lightly floured surface makes dough handling easier. I prefer parchment because you can roll and transfer the stromboli more easily.

A pastry brush is useful for applying butter and egg. It gives you more control and keeps things neat. A serrated knife is important for making slits in the dough so steam can escape.

You’ll also need a baking sheet or pizza stone for cooking. The stone gives a slightly crisper bottom, but both work well. Measuring spoons help ensure your seasonings are spot-on.

Ingredients List

1 pizza dough
3 tablespoons butter, melted (divided)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella, divided
12 thin slices ham
15 slices salami
15–17 slices pepperoni
1 egg, beaten
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Marinara sauce, for dipping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the crust cooks evenly and browns perfectly. Always start with a hot oven for the best texture.

Step 2: Roll the Dough
Lightly flour your surface or use parchment paper. Roll the pizza dough into a 12 x 14-inch rectangle. Keep it even to prevent any filling leaks.

Step 3: Garlic Butter Base
Mix 1 tablespoon of melted butter with the minced garlic. Brush this mixture all over the dough. It infuses every bite with flavor.

Step 4: Layer the Fillings
Sprinkle ½ cup of mozzarella over the dough. Layer the ham slices evenly, followed by another ½ cup of mozzarella. Add the salami, pepperoni, and finish with the remaining cheese.

Step 5: Roll and Seal
Brush the exposed edges with the beaten egg. Roll tightly from the long edge, jelly-roll style. Pinch the seam and tuck the ends underneath.

Step 6: Top and Score
Mix the remaining butter with garlic powder, Parmesan, and parsley. Brush it over the stromboli. Use a serrated knife to cut shallow diagonal slits across the top.

Step 7: Bake
Place the stromboli on your baking sheet or pizza stone. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 8: Serve
Cut into 8 slices. Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy while hot.

Troubleshooting

If the dough tears while rolling, don’t panic. Pinch it back together gently or patch with a small piece of extra dough. It will still bake beautifully.

Cheese leaking out? This usually happens if the seam isn’t sealed well. Make sure to brush enough egg wash and roll tightly.

Undercooked center? That’s likely due to oven temperature or overstuffing. Make sure your oven is fully preheated and your fillings are evenly distributed.

Too brown on top but raw inside? Tent with foil in the last 10 minutes. This prevents burning while the inside finishes cooking.

Tips and Variations

Try adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or onions for a veggie-packed version. They blend beautifully with the cheeses.

Use provolone or pepper jack for a different cheese profile. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes in the filling for extra heat.

Make it kid-friendly by skipping the pepperoni and using just ham and mozzarella. Or make mini strombolis by cutting the dough in half before filling and rolling.

Add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or dried oregano to the butter topping for a classic pizzeria flavor. There’s no wrong way to customize it.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This stromboli is a meal on its own, but sides take it up a notch. Serve with a fresh Caesar salad or a bowl of tomato basil soup.

Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers pair nicely and add color to the plate. Garlic knots are another perfect companion.

For drinks, try a glass of Chianti or your favorite red. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, sparkling water with lemon is refreshing.

This also makes a great party food. Slice it into smaller pieces and serve with toothpicks as an appetizer.

Nutritional Information

Each slice contains approximately:

Calories: 290
Protein: 14g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Sodium: 740mg
Sugar: 2g
Fiber: 1g

Please note values may vary slightly depending on the exact ingredients used. Consider using lower-sodium meats and cheese for a lighter version.

Easy Stromboli Dinner Recipe

Author: Jessica

Print Recipe

Description

There’s something magical about a homemade dinner that makes everyone pause and gather around the table

Ingredients

Scale

1 pizza dough
3 tablespoons butter, melted, divided
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella, divided
12 thin slices of ham
15 slices salami
15–17 slices pepperoni
1 egg, beaten
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Marinara sauce for dipping

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
This will ensure even baking and a golden, crisp crust.
Don’t skip this step—it sets the tone for perfect results.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface or use parchment paper for easy transfer.
Roll out the dough into a 12 x 14-inch rectangle, keeping the shape even.
This base is what will hold all your delicious fillings.

Step 3: Add the Garlic Butter Base
In a bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of melted butter with the minced garlic.
Use a pastry brush to coat the entire surface of the dough with this mixture.
This step adds flavor from the inside out and helps everything stick.

Step 4: Layer the Fillings
Start by sprinkling ½ cup of mozzarella over the dough, avoiding the edges.
Lay down your ham slices, then another layer of mozzarella.
Follow with salami and pepperoni, and finish with the remaining mozzarella.

Step 5: Seal and Roll
Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it along the edges of the dough.
Roll the dough tightly from the long side without the egg wash, jelly-roll style.
Pinch the seam and tuck the ends under for a clean finish.

Step 6: Add Toppings
Combine the remaining melted butter with garlic powder, Parmesan, and parsley.
Brush this mixture generously over the top of the rolled Stromboli.
Make shallow diagonal slits with a serrated knife to vent steam.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Transfer to a baking sheet or stone and bake for 25–30 minutes.
You’ll know it’s done when the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
Let it cool slightly to prevent the fillings from spilling out.

Step 8: Slice and Serve
Let the Stromboli rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Use a serrated knife for clean pieces—this recipe makes about 8 slices.
Serve with warm marinara sauce on the side and enjoy immediately.

Recipe Summary and Q&A

This Easy Stromboli Dinner Recipe is quick, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. With simple ingredients and step-by-step guidance, you can create something that looks impressive and tastes even better.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it the night before, refrigerate, and bake the next day. Just add a few minutes to the baking time.

Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Freeze the baked stromboli, then reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes.

What are other dipping sauces?
Try garlic butter, ranch, pesto, or even a spicy aioli.

This recipe brings people together. Whether you’re serving family, hosting friends, or meal-prepping for the week, stromboli is a win. Don’t forget to share it, and if you enjoyed it, subscribe for more delicious recipes like this one.