Crafting a homemade Stromboli filled with layers of savory meats, melted cheeses, and encased in a golden crust is a culinary venture that promises a delightful escape into the heart of Italian-inspired comfort food. The anticipation of slicing into the freshly baked Stromboli, revealing the perfectly aligned layers of pepperoni, salami, ham, and gooey cheeses, was met with eager eyes and watering mouths in my household. The first bite was a chorus of flavors and textures, blending the spicy kick of pepper jack with the rich, meaty layers and a hint of garlic and Italian herbs. This recipe quickly ascended to the top of my family’s request list, earning its place as a go-to for gatherings or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients
- 1 can pizza dough, unrolled
- 3 tablespoons garlic butter
- 4 slices pepper jack cheese
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
- 1/2 cup salami slices
- 1/2 cup ham slices
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Dough: Spread garlic butter evenly over the unrolled pizza dough on a floured surface.
- Layer the Fillings: Place the pepper jack cheese, pepperoni, salami, ham, and shredded mozzarella on the dough. Leave space around the edges.
- Season the Stromboli: Sprinkle with garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
- Roll the Stromboli: Roll tightly from the long edge, sealing the ends.
- Prepare for Baking: Place seam side down on a parchment-lined sheet. Brush with egg wash.
- Bake: Make slits on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.
- Cool and Serve: Let cool slightly before slicing.
Nutrition Facts
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 600 calories
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Additional Tips
- Dough Handling: Let the dough rest at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling out. This makes it easier to handle and less likely to tear.
- Variations: Feel free to swap out meats or cheeses based on preference. Vegetarian options can include spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
- Sealing the Edges: Use a little water on your fingertips to help seal the dough edges properly. This prevents the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with a side of marinara sauce for dipping to enhance the flavors.
- Storing Leftovers: Stromboli can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain its crispiness.
FAQ Section
- Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Stromboli, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it when ready to serve. - Can I use homemade pizza dough?
Absolutely, homemade dough can be used and might even elevate the flavor. - What can I use instead of garlic butter?
Regular butter mixed with minced garlic or olive oil with garlic powder are great substitutes. - Can I add vegetables to the Stromboli?
Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers is a great way to include more nutrients. - Is it freezer friendly?
Yes, bake it first, let it cool, then wrap it tightly before freezing. Thaw and reheat in the oven. - How do I know when the Stromboli is done?
The crust should be golden brown and crispy, and the filling hot throughout. - Can I use different cheeses?
Yes, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Just be mindful of their melting properties. - How thick should the slices be?
This depends on preference, but typically, 1 to 1.5 inches is ideal. - Can I make it spicy?
Adding jalapeños or using spicier meats and cheeses can increase the heat level. - Is this recipe kid-friendly?
It can be tailored to be kid-friendly by adjusting the spice level and fillings to suit their tastes.