Italian Stromboli (Classic, Cheesy, and Bakery-Style)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Italian Stromboli is a timeless baked favorite that brings together everything people love about Italian-American comfort food. Wrapped in golden pizza dough, this dish is filled with layers of savory meats, melted cheese, and aromatic seasonings, then baked until crisp on the outside and irresistibly gooey inside. I often make this recipe when I want something hearty, shareable, and satisfying without ordering takeout. Stromboli is perfect for family dinners, game nights, or casual gatherings because it slices beautifully and holds its shape. Unlike pizza, every bite delivers a balanced mix of filling and dough, making it both comforting and filling. This recipe is straightforward, reliable, and easy to customize, making it a dependable option whether you are cooking for guests or simply craving a classic Italian-style baked meal.

Print

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pizza Dough
Pizza dough forms the foundation of the stromboli. It bakes into a crisp exterior while remaining soft and chewy inside.

Mozzarella Cheese
Mozzarella provides stretch and creaminess, creating the signature melty interior.

Provolone Cheese
Provolone adds depth and a slightly sharper flavor that complements mozzarella.

Italian Salami
Salami adds bold, savory flavor and a classic Italian profile.

Pepperoni
Pepperoni contributes mild spice and richness, balancing the cheese.

Ham
Ham adds a slightly sweet, salty contrast to the other meats.

Pizza Sauce
Pizza sauce adds moisture and tomato flavor without overpowering the filling.

Olive Oil
Olive oil helps achieve a golden crust and enhances flavor.

Italian Seasoning
Italian seasoning adds herbal notes that tie all the ingredients together.

Garlic Powder
Garlic powder provides subtle savory depth throughout the dough.

Egg
Egg wash gives the stromboli a glossy, golden finish.

Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan adds a salty, savory finish to the crust.

Directions

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Roll the pizza dough out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle of even thickness.

Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Layer mozzarella and provolone evenly, followed by salami, pepperoni, and ham.

Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log, tucking in the ends to seal the filling inside. Place the stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

Brush the top with egg wash, drizzle lightly with olive oil, and sprinkle Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese over the surface.

Using a sharp knife, cut a few small slits across the top to allow steam to escape.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and the filling is fully melted. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: approximately 45 minutes

Storage/reheating

Store leftover stromboli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 8 to 10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the crust.

Variations and Customizations

Italian Stromboli is highly adaptable. You can add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions for extra texture and flavor. I tested a version with roasted peppers, and it added a pleasant sweetness.

For a spicier option, use hot salami or add crushed red pepper flakes.

You can also create a vegetarian version by replacing meats with spinach, olives, and roasted vegetables.

For a richer flavor, brush the crust with garlic butter instead of olive oil before baking.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

Approximate nutrition per serving:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	480 kcal
Protein	22 g
Carbs	38 g
Fat	26 g
Saturated Fat	11 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	4 g
Sodium	980 mg

Expert Tips & Customizations

Do Not Overfill
Too much filling can cause leaking.

Roll Tightly
A tight roll ensures even slices.

Use Low-Moisture Cheese
This prevents excess liquid.

Vent the Dough
Steam vents prevent bursting.

Rest Before Slicing
This helps the filling set slightly.

FAQs

What is the difference between stromboli and calzone?

Stromboli is rolled and sliced, while calzones are folded and sealed individually.

Can I make stromboli ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and bake when ready.

Can I freeze Italian stromboli?

Yes, freeze baked stromboli and reheat in the oven.

What dipping sauces work best?

Marinara, garlic butter, or ranch dressing pair well.

Can I use homemade pizza dough?

Yes, homemade dough works very well.

Is stromboli served hot or warm?

It is best served warm for optimal texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Italian Stromboli is a classic, crowd-pleasing dish that delivers bold flavor, melty cheese, and a perfectly baked crust in every slice. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it is ideal for family dinners, entertaining, or casual meals at home. This recipe offers a reliable way to enjoy bakery-style stromboli with simple ingredients and satisfying results.

Hungry for more?  Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!