# Simple Stromboli Recipe: A Pizza Roll Wonder
Stromboli is a fantastic Italian-American creation that looks like a rolled-up pizza, making it ideal for dipping and enjoying. This straightforward Stromboli recipe is not only easy to make but also allows for personalization, so you can include your preferred toppings. Whether you’re organizing a game night or seeking a fast weeknight meal, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy everyone gathered around the table.
## Reasons to Adore This Recipe
– **Taste**: Flavorful, cheesy, and slightly crunchy, this Stromboli is filled with an appealing combination of Italian spices.
– **Personalization**: Set up a make-your-own topping station where guests can choose their favorite additions, turning the meal into a fun and engaging experience.
– **Time-Saving Tip**: Opt for store-bought pizza dough and pre-grated cheese to streamline the cooking process.
– **Serving Ideas**: Pair it with warm marinara sauce for dipping and a crisp side salad for a well-rounded meal.
– **Freezing**: Prepare the Stromboli, wrap it securely, and freeze it unbaked for a convenient meal option in the future.
## Stromboli Compared to Calzone
Though both Stromboli and calzones share similar ingredients, they differ in shape and method of preparation. Strombolis are rolled up, while calzones are folded into half-moon shapes. Furthermore, calzones usually contain ricotta cheese, while Strombolis commonly feature a mix of cheeses and meats.
## Ingredient Suggestions for Stromboli
– **Dough**: You can either purchase pre-made dough or whip up your own homemade pizza dough.
– **Sauce**: Choose marinara sauce or homemade pizza sauce, tweaking the quantity of Italian herbs to fit your taste. For a zing, toss in red pepper flakes.
– **Toppings**: Virtually anything you’d put on a pizza can find its place in a Stromboli. Popular options include pepperoni, ham, olives, onions, diced bell peppers, and mushrooms.
## Useful Tips
1. **Cheese**: Use plenty of gooey cheese to secure the filling.
2. **Sealing**: An egg wash helps close the ends of the Stromboli, stopping the filling from oozing out.
3. **Steam Release**: Make small slashes across the top of the Stromboli to let steam escape while baking, which helps keep the crust crispy.
4. **Egg Wash**: This not only seals the Stromboli but also gives it a lovely golden finish. You can mix in melted butter or garlic butter for extra flavor.
5. **Resting**: Let the cooked Stromboli stand for a few minutes before slicing to ensure it retains its shape.
## Storing Stromboli
– If adding vegetables, cook and cool them beforehand to avoid sogginess.
– Prepare in advance and keep wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking.
– Keep leftover Stromboli in a covered container in the fridge for up to four days. Enjoy slices cold or warm them in the air fryer or microwave.
– Wrap individual portions in plastic and freeze in a zippered bag for up to a month. They’ll be ready to eat or reheat by lunchtime.
## Additional Pizza-Inspired Recipes
If you liked this Stromboli recipe, you may also enjoy other pizza-themed dishes such as:
– **Homemade Pizza**: Create your own pizza from scratch with your favorite toppings.
– **Calzones**: Experiment with calzones stuffed with ricotta cheese and various meats and veggies.
– **Pizza Rolls**: Ideal for snacking, these bite-sized pizza rolls are simple to prepare and enjoyable to eat.
## Final Thoughts
This simple Stromboli recipe is an excellent way to savor the flavors of pizza in a fun, transportable form. With its tasty filling and crunchy crust, it’s perfect for any gathering. Be sure to leave a rating and a comment below if you give it a try!
### Recipe Overview
– **Prep Time**: 15 minutes
– **Cook Time**: 25 minutes
– **Total Time**: 45 minutes
– **Servings**: 12 slices
### Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll the pizza dough into a rectangle (about 12×16 inches) on a lightly floured surface.
3. Spread marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges and a 3-inch border at the far end.
4. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella over the sauce, followed by layers of ham, salami, and pepperoni. Add the remaining cheese on top.
5. Tightly roll the dough, stopping just before the end.
6. Whisk together egg, water, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Brush the mixture