Italian Stromboli – Mozzarella-Stuffed Ham & Pepperoni Roll

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Few things are as satisfying as a golden-brown Italian stromboli fresh from the oven, bursting with gooey mozzarella and savory layers of pepperoni and ham. This dish is essentially a rolled-up pizza, but easier to share and even more fun to serve. It’s perfect for family dinners, game nights, or casual gatherings, as it delivers all the flavors of a pizzeria in one compact loaf. The combination of melted cheese, Italian meats, and fragrant seasonings wrapped in warm dough is irresistible. I once tried brushing the top with garlic butter before baking, and the result was an even more flavorful crust that had everyone asking for seconds. This stromboli recipe is versatile, simple to prepare, and always a crowd-pleaser. If you love pizza or calzones, this Italian stromboli will quickly become a staple in your home kitchen.

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Ingredients

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

Pizza dough – The foundation of stromboli, providing a soft, chewy interior and a golden, crisp crust once baked. You can use homemade dough or store-bought for convenience.

Mozzarella cheese – The star of the filling, mozzarella melts beautifully, creating that signature stretchy, cheesy texture inside.

Pepperoni slices – These add a bold, slightly spicy flavor, balancing perfectly with the creamy mozzarella.

Ham slices – A classic deli ham adds a mild, savory richness that pairs well with pepperoni.

Parmesan cheese – Sprinkled over the filling, Parmesan brings a nutty, salty depth of flavor.

Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme enhances the Italian-inspired flavors of the stromboli.

Garlic powder – Adds warmth and aroma, elevating both the filling and the crust.

Olive oil or melted butter – Brushed on the outside before baking, this ensures a golden crust and adds richness.

Egg wash (egg mixed with water) – Brushed on top for a glossy, bakery-style finish.

Optional marinara sauce – Served on the side for dipping, giving a pizza-like flavor to every bite.

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out your pizza dough into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface.

Start layering the fillings: sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides. Add slices of pepperoni and ham, then top with Parmesan cheese. Lightly season with garlic powder and Italian seasoning.

Next, carefully roll the dough from the long side into a log, tucking in the ends as you go. Pinch the seams tightly to seal. Place the stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the top with olive oil or melted butter, then apply the egg wash for shine. Using a sharp knife, cut a few shallow slits on top to allow steam to escape during baking.

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and firm. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation takes around 15 minutes, while baking requires 30 minutes, making the total time approximately 45 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Leftover stromboli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until warmed through. An air fryer also works well for reheating, keeping the crust crispy. Avoid microwaving as it may make the dough chewy.

Variations and Customizations

Classic Italian sausage stromboli – Replace ham with cooked Italian sausage for a heartier flavor.

Vegetarian stromboli – Use sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers in place of meat for a veggie-packed version.

Spicy stromboli – Add hot capicola, banana peppers, or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Cheese lovers’ stromboli – Mix mozzarella with provolone, fontina, or asiago for a cheesier blend.

Breakfast stromboli – Fill with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheddar cheese for a morning-friendly variation.

Pesto stromboli – Spread a thin layer of basil pesto on the dough before adding fillings for an herby twist.

Mini stromboli rolls – Cut the dough into smaller portions and roll them individually for party-friendly bites.

Mediterranean stromboli – Try fillings like olives, roasted red peppers, and feta cheese for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

What is stromboli?

Stromboli is an Italian-American rolled bread filled with meats, cheeses, and seasonings, similar to a rolled-up pizza.

What’s the difference between stromboli and calzone?

A stromboli is rolled and baked like a loaf, while a calzone is folded into a half-moon shape.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, pre-made pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe.

Can I freeze stromboli?

Yes, bake it first, let it cool, then freeze wrapped tightly. Reheat in the oven when ready.

What cheese is best for stromboli?

Mozzarella is essential, but mixing in provolone or Parmesan adds more depth.

How do I prevent stromboli from opening while baking?

Seal the seams tightly and place seam-side down on the baking sheet.

Can I make stromboli ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Do I need marinara sauce?

It’s optional, but dipping in marinara enhances the flavor.

Can I use puff pastry instead of pizza dough?

Yes, puff pastry creates a lighter, flakier version.

Is stromboli served hot or cold?

It is best served warm, but leftovers can be eaten cold.

Conclusion

This mozzarella-stuffed pepperoni and ham stromboli is a simple yet indulgent dish that combines the best elements of pizza in a shareable form. With layers of gooey cheese, savory meats, and a golden crust, it’s perfect for family meals, entertaining, or even meal prep. The recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to swap fillings and flavors to suit your taste. Whether served with marinara for dipping or enjoyed plain, stromboli is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of Italian comfort straight to your kitchen.

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