Cheesy Italian Stromboli

Golden pizza dough stuffed with layers of smoked ham, salami, and melted provolone, brushed with garlic butter. Easy, impressive, and perfect for dipping in marinara.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: About 40 minutes
Servings: 6–8 slices
Equipment: Baking sheet, parchment paper or silicone mat

Ingredients

Stromboli

  • 1 can (13.8 oz) Pillsbury refrigerated pizza dough
  • 6–8 slices smoked ham
  • 12–16 slices salami
  • 6–8 slices provolone cheese
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano

Garlic Butter Topping

  • 3 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder)
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan
  • Pinch of dried parsley or Italian seasoning

For serving

  • Warm marinara sauce

Detailed Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven
    Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the dough
    Unroll the pizza dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Gently stretch it into a large rectangle (about 10×14 inches).
  3. Layer the fillings
    Leave a 1-inch border around the edges.
    Layer the provolone slices down the center of the dough.
    Top with the smoked ham slices, then the salami.
    Sprinkle a little grated Parmesan over the meats if desired.
  4. Roll the stromboli
    Carefully fold the long sides of the dough over the filling, then fold in the short ends.
    Roll it tightly into a log shape, seam-side down.
    Pinch the seams and ends to seal well so the cheese doesn’t leak out.
  5. Add egg wash and topping
    Brush the entire stromboli with the beaten egg.
    In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, Parmesan, and parsley.
    Brush the garlic butter generously over the top.
    Sprinkle with a little extra Parmesan and Italian seasoning if desired.
    Cut 3–4 shallow diagonal slits on top to let steam escape.
  6. Bake
    Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and cooked through.
  7. Rest and serve
    Let the stromboli rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
    Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

Pro Tips for Best Results

  • Don’t overfill or the dough may tear and cheese will leak.
  • Seal the edges tightly — use a little water on your fingers if needed to help it stick.
  • For extra crispy crust, bake directly on a preheated pizza stone or the bottom rack.
  • Let it rest before cutting so the cheese sets slightly and doesn’t run out.
  • Freshly minced garlic in the butter gives the best flavor.

Popular Variations

  • Pepperoni version: Replace salami with pepperoni.
  • Veggie: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers.
  • Spicy: Add banana peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • Different cheese: Use mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix.
  • Everything topping: Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on the garlic butter.

Serving Suggestions

Slice and serve as an appetizer, game-day food, or easy dinner with a side salad. Great for parties because it can be made ahead and baked when needed.

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers wrapped in foil for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes to keep the crust crispy. Microwave works in a pinch but softens the crust.
  • Freezing: Assemble (but don’t bake), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 extra minutes.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *