There’s something irresistible about the golden crust, melted cheese, and savory pepperoni wrapped up in a neat, delicious package. If you’re a fan of comfort food, then this Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli is about to become your new favorite dish! Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a party appetizer, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Not only is it quick to prepare, but it’s also customizable. You can load it up with your favorite fillings, sauces, and cheeses. The combination of mozzarella, pepperoni, and Parmesan, baked to perfection, will have everyone coming back for more.
Let’s dive into how you can make this mouthwatering dish at home with minimal effort but maximum flavor!
Ingredients for Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli
Before we start rolling, let’s make sure we’ve got all the right ingredients! For this cheesy, pepperoni-packed Stromboli, you’ll need:
- 1 pizza dough: Rolled into a rectangle on a floured surface
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese: Shredded
- 1/2 cup pepperoni: Sliced
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese: Grated
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: For extra flavor
- 1 egg: Beaten, for the egg wash
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce: For dipping
These simple ingredients create a dish that’s as flavorful as it is satisfying. With the mozzarella cheese melting into the dough, combined with the savory pepperoni and Parmesan, every bite will be a taste of comfort!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli
Let’s take you through each step of making this delicious Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli. From prepping the dough to serving it with marinara sauce, we’ll guide you through every stage to ensure your Stromboli turns out perfect every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
The first thing you’ll want to do is preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the ideal temperature for achieving that golden-brown, crispy crust while ensuring the filling stays warm and melty.
Next, on a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangular shape. You want it to be even in thickness, so take your time rolling it out carefully. The dough should be about 1/8 inch thick, just enough to hold the filling and bake into a perfect, fluffy crust.
Once your dough is rolled out, it’s time to move on to the next step of assembly.
Step 2: Assemble the Stromboli
Now, for the fun part! Start by evenly sprinkling the shredded mozzarella cheese over the entire surface of the dough. Make sure to leave about a 1-inch border around the edges, as you’ll need this space to seal the Stromboli once it’s rolled.
Then, take your sliced pepperoni and place it in an even layer on top of the cheese. Feel free to use more or less depending on how much you love pepperoni. The pepperoni will add that irresistible savory, slightly crispy texture that pairs so perfectly with the gooey cheese.
To take it up a notch, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pepperoni. This will add a salty, nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella perfectly. Finally, sprinkle Italian seasoning over the top for an extra boost of herby goodness.
Step 3: Roll the Dough
This is where you start seeing your Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli come to life! Carefully roll the dough from one end to the other, making sure to keep the filling intact inside. Take your time and gently roll the dough to ensure that it stays tightly wrapped. You don’t want any of the filling to escape during the baking process.
Once you’ve rolled the dough up, pinch the edges to seal them. This is a key step, as sealing the edges ensures that none of the cheesy goodness will leak out while baking. Make sure the seam is on the bottom when you place the Stromboli on the baking sheet.
Step 4: Add Egg Wash
To give the Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli a beautiful, golden finish, brush the top with a beaten egg. The egg wash will help the Stromboli develop that crispy, glossy finish that makes it so visually appealing. Plus, it adds an extra touch of richness to the crust. Use a pastry brush to apply the egg wash evenly over the top.
Step 5: Bake the Stromboli
Now that your Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli is prepped and ready, it’s time to bake! Place the Stromboli on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent the dough from sticking to the sheet while also making cleanup easier.
Bake the Stromboli for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and fully cooked. The cheese will melt beautifully inside, and the pepperoni will crisp up just right. If you want a crispier crust, feel free to broil the Stromboli for the last 2-3 minutes, but be sure to keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once your Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli is out of the oven, let it cool for just a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces. This is a great time to make sure you have your marinara sauce ready for dipping.
Serve the Stromboli hot, with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. The combination of the warm, cheesy filling and the tangy marinara sauce is the ultimate comfort food experience!
Nutritional Information for Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli
Now that we’ve covered prep and baking, let’s talk about the nutritional aspects of this Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli. Each serving contains:
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
While this Stromboli is undeniably indulgent, it’s a great option for a satisfying meal. If you want to make it a little lighter, feel free to adjust the amount of cheese or opt for a low-fat version.
Tips and Variations for Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli
One of the best things about Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli is how customizable it is! Here are a few variations you can try:
Add Veggies
For a more balanced meal, consider adding some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms inside the Stromboli. They’ll add flavor, color, and a bit of extra nutrition.
Try Different Meats
If you’re not a fan of pepperoni, you can easily switch it out for other meats like sausage, ham, or even chicken. The options are endless!
Go for a Sweet Twist
To make your Stromboli a little sweeter, consider adding sliced apples or figs along with the cheese and meat. The combination of sweet and savory will surprise your taste buds in the best way.
Make It Spicy
For those who love a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes inside the Stromboli or use spicy pepperoni. You can also serve the Stromboli with a spicy dipping sauce to really turn up the flavor!
FAQs About Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli
Can I freeze Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli?
Yes! You can freeze Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli before baking. Simply assemble the Stromboli, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake it, just remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Then, bake it as instructed.
Can I make this Stromboli ahead of time?
You can prep the Stromboli in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap so that it doesn’t dry out. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven!
What can I serve with Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli?
Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli is perfect with a variety of sides! Pair it with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. You could also serve it alongside a warm bowl of soup, like tomato soup, for a hearty meal.
Conclusion
Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli is the ultimate comfort food, combining the gooey goodness of mozzarella cheese, the savory flavor of pepperoni, and the crispiness of a perfectly baked crust. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a party, or just a delicious snack, this Stromboli will definitely be a hit. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy one of the most satisfying dishes you’ll ever make!
Related Recipes
If you loved this recipe, check out these other mouthwatering dishes:
- Garlic Butter Bacon Alfredo Pizza Twists: Cheesy Savory Delight
- Cheesy Bacon Garlic Butter Burger Rollups: A Flavorful Bite
- Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread: A Cheesy Delight
This recipe is a great addition to your meal rotation, so try it out today and let the cheesy, pepperoni-filled goodness shine through!
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Easy Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli – Comfort Food in Minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli is an irresistible, homemade treat that combines the goodness of mozzarella, pepperoni, and Parmesan cheese all wrapped in golden pizza dough. Perfect for snacking, game day, or a quick weeknight dinner, this savory bite-sized dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough, rolled into a rectangle on a floured surface
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup pepperoni, sliced
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce, for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle on a floured surface, ensuring it’s even in thickness.
- Assemble the Stromboli: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Add the pepperoni slices and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Finish with Italian seasoning on top.
- Roll the Dough: Carefully roll the dough tightly from one end, keeping the filling inside. Pinch the edges to seal it.
- Add Egg Wash: Brush the top of the rolled stromboli with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake the Stromboli: Place the stromboli seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve: Slice the stromboli into bite-sized pieces and serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy!
Notes
- For an extra crispy crust, brush the top of the dough with melted butter after baking.
- You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables or other meats of your choice.
- This recipe works well for meal prepping or as a fun appetizer for parties.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli, Pepperoni Stromboli, Homemade Stromboli, Cheesy Stromboli, Italian stromboli, pizza dough stromboli, easy stromboli, stromboli recipe