Description
Cheesy Stromboli with Ham and Pepperoni
Ingredients:
1 lb pizza dough
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup sliced ham
1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Dried oregano and parsley (for garnish)
Optional: Marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle. Brush the edges of the dough with olive oil.
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, sliced ham, and sliced pepperoni. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Spread the filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving about an inch of space around the edges.
Carefully roll up the dough from one end to the other, tucking in the sides as you go. Place the rolled-up stromboli on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top of the stromboli with olive oil and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and dried parsley.
Bake for about 25-30 minutes until the stromboli is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
Serve the Cheesy Stromboli with Ham and Pepperoni hot, accompanied by a small bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. This dish is perfect for a satisfying meal that combines the rich flavors of melted cheese, savory ham, and spicy pepperoni. Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Stromboli!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 10×14 inch rectangle. Brush a 1-inch border around the edges with olive oil to help seal.
2. Layer Filling: Evenly sprinkle mozzarella over the dough, staying inside the oiled border. Arrange ham and pepperoni in a single layer on top. Season lightly with oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll Tightly: Starting from a long side, roll the dough into a log, using the oiled edge to seal. Pinch the seam and ends closed firmly.
4. Final Prep: Place seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the entire top and sides with olive oil. Use a sharp knife to cut 3-4 small steam vents on top. Sprinkle with Parmesan and parsley.
5. Bake: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes until deeply golden brown. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the cheese to set.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the stromboli into 1.5-inch pieces. Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping. For a complete meal, pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. It’s perfect for game day, parties, or a hearty weeknight dinner. Leftovers reheat well in an air fryer or toaster oven.
How-to Summary
Roll dough into a rectangle, layer with cheese, ham, and pepperoni, then roll tightly into a log. Seal edges, vent the top, brush with oil, and sprinkle with Parmesan. Bake at 400°F until golden brown. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving with marinara sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make stromboli ahead of time? Yes. Assemble it, wrap tightly in plastic, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake directly from the fridge, adding 3-5 extra minutes.
Can I use different fillings? Absolutely. Use cooked Italian sausage, salami, sautéed peppers, onions, or different cheeses like provolone. Ensure fillings are not too wet.
Why did my stromboli burst open? This is usually due to overfilling or not leaving a sufficient border. Ensure the seal is tight and always cut steam vents in the top before baking.
How do I get a crispier crust? For extra crispness, brush the dough with olive oil before adding the filling and again on top. Baking on a preheated pizza stone can also help.
Can I freeze stromboli? Yes. Wrap the unbaked, assembled log tightly in plastic and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling: Too much filling prevents a good seal and causes leaks. Use moderate, even layers.
- Not Sealing Edges: A poor seal leads to filling spilling out. Pinch the seam and ends thoroughly.
- Skipping the Rest: Slicing immediately causes molten cheese to ooze out. Let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Using Wet Ingredients: Avoid fresh vegetables like tomatoes or mushrooms unless pre-cooked, as they release steam and make the dough soggy.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Stromboli is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that is simpler to make than it looks. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a golden, crispy exterior with a perfectly melted, savory interior. It’s a fantastic way to turn simple pizza ingredients into an impressive, shareable meal. Experiment with your favorite fillings and enjoy this delicious homemade treat.