Italian Stromboli

This Italian Stromboli recipe is a simple yet incredibly delicious way to feed a crowd. With just five key ingredients – spicy pepperoni, savory capicola, gooey mozzarella, flavorful pizza seasoning, and convenient frozen bread dough – it’s a guaranteed hit. Serve it with jarred marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.

A Symphony of Savory Flavors

Few things can rival the combination of spicy pepperoni, salty capicola, and melted mozzarella, all nestled within soft, crispy bread. This Italian Stromboli recipe captures that magic with minimal effort. Inspired by a family favorite, this recipe is easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.

The Beauty of Simplicity

The beauty of Stromboli lies in its versatility. While this version is distinctly Italian, you can customize it with virtually any ingredients you desire. From cheeseburger Stromboli to Philly cheesesteak variations, the possibilities are endless.

Stromboli Ingredients: The Core Five (Plus Optional Extras)

1. Frozen Bread Dough: This is the secret to a soft, almost gooey center and a super crispy exterior. Look for it in the frozen section alongside puff pastry and pie crusts. Remember to defrost it in the refrigerator or at room temperature several hours in advance.

2. Pepperoni: Deli-counter pepperoni is key. Its flavor and larger size create beautiful layers when sliced.

3. Capicola: The salty, mildly peppery flavor of capicola adds a delightful dimension. Feel free to omit it if you prefer.

4. Mozzarella Cheese: Melty, gooey mozzarella is essential for that perfect cheese pull. Its mild flavor complements the other ingredients.

5. Pizza Seasoning: This often-overlooked ingredient makes a significant difference. A generic pizza seasoning blend adds a subtle herby undertone.

Optional Ingredients:

• Egg: An egg wash creates a glossy, golden-brown top.
• Marinara Sauce: While not essential, marinara sauce is a great dipping option for some.

Crafting Your Stromboli: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Defrost the Dough: Allow ample time for the frozen bread dough to defrost in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for several hours.

2. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll the defrosted dough into a 7×14 inch rectangle (or 10×14 for more layers).

3. Layer the Ingredients: Arrange the pepperoni in a single layer, followed by a sprinkle of cheese, a layer of capicola, and the remaining cheese. Sprinkle with pizza seasoning, salt, and pepper.

4. Fold and Seal: Roll the dough up jelly-roll style, tucking the ends under and pinching the edges to seal. Cut five or six slits in the top to allow steam to escape.

5. Egg Wash and Bake: If using, combine egg and water and brush the top of the Stromboli. Sprinkle with additional pizza seasoning. Bake on a greased baking sheet until golden brown, about 20 minutes.

6. Serve: Slice and enjoy!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips:

• Prep Ahead: You can prepare the Stromboli up to the baking stage. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• Reheating: While best served fresh, leftover Stromboli can be reheated in the microwave.

Tips and Tricks for Stromboli Success:

• Pizza Dough Alternative: If you’re short on time, prepared pizza dough can be used instead of frozen bread dough.
• Ingredient Variations: Feel free to experiment with other meats and cheeses like salami, mortadella, provolone, or prosciutto.
• Pizza Seasoning Substitute: If you can’t find pizza seasoning, combine dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes

Italian Stromboli

This easy and delicious Italian Stromboli is packed with pepperoni, capicola, gooey mozzarella, and bold pizza seasoning, all wrapped in golden, crispy dough. Perfect for a crowd and great for dipping in marinara sauce!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 8 hours 40 minutes

Servings: 8 slices

Ingredients

• 1 lb frozen bread dough or prepared pizza dough
• ¼ lb sliced pepperoni
• ¼ lb sliced capicola
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1½ teaspoons pizza seasoning
• 1 egg + 1 tbsp water (for egg wash, optional)
• Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)

Instructions

1. Place dough on a greased baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap. Let it defrost in the fridge for 6-8 hours or overnight. Remove from the fridge and let it rest for 1-2 hours before using.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly flour a surface and rolling pin. Roll out dough into an 8×13-inch rectangle.
3. Layer pepperoni over the dough, followed by ⅓ of the cheese. Add capicola, then top with the remaining cheese. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of pizza seasoning.
4. Roll up the dough tightly, jelly-roll style. Tuck in the ends and pinch to seal. If using, brush the edges with egg wash for better sealing.
5. Spray the baking sheet with non-stick spray and transfer the stromboli onto it. Brush with egg wash if using, sprinkle with the remaining pizza seasoning, and bake for 20 minutes until golden brown. Let sit for 1-2 minutes before slicing and serving.