Italian Stromboli

Featured in Family Dinners.

Got this quick stromboli idea for get-togethers. Using frozen dough keeps it easy, and you can mix up the fillings. Made it on game night, and everyone loved how cheesy and crispy it came out. Now I always keep dough ready for surprise guests. Even picky eaters enjoy it when I change the fillings. Fancy-looking but super simple—it's a winner for any crowd.
A woman wearing an apron and smiling.
Updated on Sun, 06 Apr 2025 20:36:36 GMT
Freshly baked cheesy pepperoni loaf with herbs on a wood board. Pin it
Freshly baked cheesy pepperoni loaf with herbs on a wood board. | tasteofmoms.com

Homemade Mouthwatering Italian Stromboli

This rustic stromboli combines all the best Italian flavors - zesty pepperoni, rich capicola and gooey mozzarella wrapped in a crispy golden shell. It amazes me how just a handful of ingredients can transport you straight to an Italian kitchen. This has turned into my favorite dish when I want to wow guests without spending hours cooking.

The Secret Behind This Foolproof Stromboli

What makes this stromboli so great is how the simple ingredients work together beautifully. You can switch things up with your own fillings, but this traditional Italian mix never fails to please. And don't forget about dunking it in warm marinara - that's what makes it truly special.

Ingredients Needed

  • Frozen Bread Dough: The key to that beautiful golden exterior.
  • Pepperoni: Ask for it cut fresh at your local deli.
  • Capicola: Brings that genuine Italian touch.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Grate it yourself for better melting.
  • Pizza Seasoning: My custom Italian herb mixture.
  • Optional: Beaten egg for that glossy finish, marinara for dipping.

Creating Your Stromboli

Prep The Dough
Allow it to thaw completely for the best results.
Stack Your Ingredients
Stretch the dough flat, add your tasty fillings, then wrap everything tightly.
Into The Oven
Coat with beaten egg, sprinkle seasoning and bake until golden.
Serve It Up
Cut into portions and enjoy hot with a side of marinara.

Pro Tips For Perfect Results

Go to the deli counter for freshly sliced meats - they're way tastier. Don't be afraid to try different fillings that you love. And remember, you can't rush good dough - give it enough time to thaw properly.

Storage Tips

Your stromboli will stay good in your fridge for up to three days. When you're hungry for leftovers, just warm it up in the oven until it's hot throughout. I wouldn't put it in the freezer though - it's much better eaten within a few days.

A golden-brown pepperoni stromboli topped with grated cheese, sliced and resting on a wooden board, accompanied by a small bowl of marinara sauce. Pin it
A golden-brown pepperoni stromboli topped with grated cheese, sliced and resting on a wooden board, accompanied by a small bowl of marinara sauce. | tasteofmoms.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I swap in pizza dough?

Sure! If you're short on time, pizza dough works fine and is easy to use.

→ Why does the dough need to sit first?

It softens up at room temperature, so it's simpler to work with and roll out.

→ Can I change the meats?

Definitely! Use any Italian-style meats you like, keeping the total amount about the same.

→ What’s the egg wash for?

It helps hold the edges together and gives the crust a shiny, golden look—but you can skip it if you want.

→ Can I prep this beforehand?

Yup! Put it together up to a day early, then keep it chilled until it's ready to bake.

Italian Stromboli

Rolled up Italian sandwich stuffed with cheese, pepperoni, and capicola. Great for hosting with minimal effort.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
25 Minutes
Total Time
40 Minutes
By: Ashley

Category: Family Dinners

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Italian-American

Yield: 8 Servings (1 stuffed bread roll)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

01 16 ounces of store-bought bread dough (frozen).
02 4 ounces of capicola slices.
03 4 ounces of pepperoni slices.
04 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella.
05 1 1/2 teaspoons of seasoning mix for pizza.
06 1 beaten egg mixed with a splash of water (optional).
07 Optional warm marinara for dipping.

Instructions

Step 01

Place on a greased tray, cover, and leave it in the fridge for 6-8 hours to thaw.

Step 02

Leave out for about 1-2 hours until it's room temp.

Step 03

Turn your oven on to 400°F to preheat.

Step 04

Stretch or roll your dough into a rectangle about 8x13 inches.

Step 05

Start layering: pepperoni first, then cheese, capicola, and a bit more cheese. Sprinkle the pizza seasoning on top.

Step 06

Tightly roll the dough and pinch the edges so nothing leaks.

Step 07

Move it to a greased tray, and if you want a golden color, brush it with the egg wash.

Step 08

Cook for around 20 minutes or until it’s golden brown.

Step 09

Let it cool a moment, then slice and serve.

Notes

  1. Swap in pre-made pizza dough if preferred.
  2. Dough is easier to roll once it’s at room temperature.
  3. Feel free to use other Italian meats you like.
  4. Brushing with the egg mix gives a beautiful glossy finish.
  5. You can assemble it in advance to save time later.

Tools You'll Need

  • A baking tray.
  • A rolling pin to shape the dough.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy from the cheese.
  • Includes wheat in the bread dough.
  • Eggs are in the optional wash.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 309
  • Total Fat: 15 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 28 g
  • Protein: 15 g