Best Italian Stromboli Recipe: Cheap & Easy

Make This Italian Classic at Home

Italian cuisine is renowned worldwide for its rich, bold flavors and emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients. From the sun-drenched hills of Tuscany to the coastal villages of Sicily, Italian food tells the story of generations, combining simplicity with passion. Each dish reflects Italy’s diverse regions, offering an experience that transcends the ordinary.

Easy Homemade Stromboli Anyone Can Make

Among the many gems of classic Italian American dishes, Stromboli stands as a beloved classic. Inspired by the volcanic island of Stromboli off the North Coast of Sicily, this rolled-up pizza embodies the essence of Italian comfort food. Combining savory meats, melty cheeses, and a perfect pizza dough crust, Stromboli is a versatile and delightful dish that brings people together.In this blog, we’ll walk you through the ultimate Italian Stromboli recipe, guiding you step by step to create a delicious and customizable dish that’s ideal for any occasion.Whether you’re preparing it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this Stromboli will not only satisfy your taste buds but also impress your guests.

What Is Stromboli?

Stromboli is a savory, rolled-up pizza that is beloved for its simplicity, versatility, and heartiness. Unlike traditional pizza, which is baked flat with toppings, Stromboli features pizza dough wrapped around a mixture of savory fillings, including meats, cheeses, and vegetables.Once assembled, it’s baked until golden brown and crispy, offering a delicious and satisfying meal that can be eaten by hand, making it the perfect portable meal for parties, gatherings, or a family dinner.The name “Stromboli” is derived from the island of Stromboli, a volcanic island located off the northern coast of Sicily. Known for its rugged beauty and active volcano, the island inspired the name for this dish, as its hearty and flavorful fillings evoke the bold flavors found in the island’s cuisine.

The Origins of Stromboli

The story behind Stromboli’s creation is as intriguing as the dish itself. Though it is firmly rooted in Italian-American cuisine, Stromboli is thought to have been invented in the 1950s by an Italian immigrant in Pennsylvania, USA.The immigrant reportedly wanted to create a portable pizza that could be easily folded and eaten on the go, so Stromboli was born.Despite its American roots, Stromboli has become a beloved dish that celebrates Italian flavors, providing an accessible yet delicious alternative to traditional pizza.Over the years, the recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family putting its spin on the dish, adding everything from different types of cheese to varying combinations of meats and vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Stromboli Recipe

This best Stromboli recipe is a celebration of Italian cuisine at its finest. Here are just a few reasons why you’ll love making this dish:

• Simple Ingredients: With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a Stromboli that’s packed with flavor.
• Endless Customization: Whether you prefer classic fillings like pepperoni and mozzarella or want to experiment with other ingredients like sausage, bell peppers, or spinach, the options are endless.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From a casual weeknight dinner to a party or game night, Stromboli is the ideal dish to serve a crowd.
• Satisfying and Hearty: This dish is both filling and comforting, making it ideal for those who love a hearty meal.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe is easy to follow, ensuring that your Stromboli is delicious every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this best Stromboli, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Large pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• Smoked ham (2 slices per Stromboli)
• Pepperoni (8 slices per Stromboli, or to taste)
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (about 1 cup per Stromboli)
• Olive oil (for greasing and brushing)
• 1 egg (for the egg wash)
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• Marinara sauce (optional for dipping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough – Lay store-bought dough on a lightly oiled surface or roll out homemade dough to a rectangle about 1/8 inch thick.Step 2: Stretch the Dough – Gently stretch it to form a rectangle. Imperfections are fine. Pinch together any tears.Step 3: Assemble the Stromboli – Layer two slices of ham, then pepperoni, and a generous handful of cheese. Add extras like mushrooms, peppers, or sausage if desired.Step 4: Fold and Seal – Fold the dough over the fillings and pinch the edges tightly to seal. Trim uneven edges if needed.Step 5: Crimp and Prep for Baking – Crimp edges with a fork. Place on a greased baking sheet, leaving space between each one.Step 6: Egg Wash and Bake – Brush with egg wash and sprinkle sesame seeds if using. Vent the top with a knife. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.Step 7: Slice and Serve – Let cool slightly before slicing. Serve with marinara for dipping. Enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Stromboli

• Fresh Dough: Makes all the difference for crisp crust and even baking.
• Experiment with Fillings: Go beyond the basics with sausage, spinach, or ricotta.
• Don’t Skip the Egg Wash: It gives that golden finish and crispiness.
• Use Dipping Sauces: Marinara or garlic butter sauce pairs great with this.

Traditional Stromboli is a comforting and satisfying dish, a true testament to the simplicity and richness of Italian-American cuisine. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a party, or just a casual evening at home, this quick Stromboli recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite.It’s easy to make, customizable, and packed with flavor, just like any great Italian dish should be. Check out our grocery shopping in Sicily for more like this.So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious Stromboli that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Buon appetito!