Cheesy Baked Pepperoni Stromboli

If you love pizza but are looking for something a little different and equally delicious, this Cheesy Baked Pepperoni Stromboli is sure to hit the spot. This dish combines all the classic flavors of pizza—gooey mozzarella, savory pepperoni, zesty marinara sauce but encases them in a beautifully golden, crispy crust. It’s like a pizza in a portable, rolled-up form, making it perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even just a cozy night in.

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This stromboli is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to get creative with fillings and seasonings. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, thanks to the use of refrigerated pizza dough, which means less fuss and more time to enjoy the deliciousness!

Let’s dive into the details of this irresistible Cheesy Baked Pepperoni Stromboli, with tips, variations, and detailed instructions to help you achieve stromboli perfection.

Ingredients Breakdown: Why These Ingredients Matter

• Refrigerated Pizza Dough: This convenient shortcut saves you time and hassle. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could make your own pizza dough, but using pre-made dough ensures that this recipe stays quick and easy.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella is a key ingredient in any pizza-inspired dish. Its creamy texture and mild flavor melt beautifully, giving you that signature stretchiness with every bite.
• Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a punch of savory, salty flavor that complements the mozzarella and pepperoni perfectly. It also helps to create a more complex flavor profile for the filling.
• Pepperoni: The star of the filling! Pepperoni offers a rich, smoky flavor that stands out against the melty cheese. You can swap it out for another meat (like ham or sausage) or even go vegetarian with mushrooms, spinach, or peppers.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, Italian seasoning enhances the overall flavor and gives the stromboli an authentic Italian vibe.
• Garlic Butter: Brushing the stromboli with melted butter and garlic ensures the crust gets golden, crispy, and packed with flavor. This step elevates the dish from a simple roll-up to a gourmet treat.
• Marinara Sauce: While not baked into the stromboli, marinara sauce serves as the perfect dip on the side. The tangy, tomato-based sauce balances the richness of the cheese and pepperoni.
• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brightens the dish with its fresh, slightly peppery flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cheesy Baked Pepperoni Stromboli

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Before you start assembling your stromboli, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensuring that the oven is at the right temperature is crucial for achieving a perfectly golden and crispy crust.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

Start by lightly flouring your work surface. Then, take your tube of refrigerated pizza dough and roll it into a large rectangle. The size should be around 10×14 inches, with an even thickness throughout. Rolling the dough too thin might cause it to tear when rolling the stromboli, while dough that is too thick can lead to undercooked areas.

A well-rolled dough sets the foundation for a neat and even stromboli, ensuring that all the ingredients are wrapped securely inside.

Step 3: Layer the Fillings

Now comes the fun part: the fillings! Start by evenly spreading 1½ cups of shredded mozzarella across the dough, leaving about an inch of border around the edges. This makes it easier to seal the dough when rolling.

Next, sprinkle ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese on top of the mozzarella. The Parmesan adds a rich, nutty depth of flavor that complements the mozzarella’s gooeyness.

Layer 20-25 slices of pepperoni over the cheese. You can overlap them slightly to make sure each bite is packed with pepperoni goodness.

Finally, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning over the fillings. This herbal blend ties everything together and gives the stromboli that unmistakable pizza flavor.

Step 4: Roll It Up

Starting from one of the longer sides, carefully roll the dough into a log shape. Take your time and make sure the roll is tight so that the filling stays inside as it bakes. As you roll, pinch the seams to seal the dough and prevent any leaks.

Once the dough is rolled up, tuck the ends under to ensure nothing escapes during baking. This step helps keep all the gooey cheese and pepperoni safely inside the crust.

Step 5: Brush with Garlic Butter

To give your stromboli that irresistible golden-brown crust, it’s time to prepare the garlic butter. In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of melted butter with 1 minced clove of garlic.

Brush this garlic butter mixture generously over the entire stromboli. The butter adds richness while the garlic infuses the crust with flavor.

Season the top with a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor. This step will ensure that the outside of the stromboli tastes just as good as the inside.

Step 6: Bake

Place your stromboli on the prepared baking sheet and transfer it to the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is a deep golden brown and crispy. The aroma of baking garlic, butter, and pepperoni will fill your kitchen, making the wait even harder!

Keep an eye on the stromboli during the last few minutes of baking to ensure it doesn’t burn. The crust should be firm to the touch and sound hollow when tapped.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

After baking, let the stromboli rest for a few minutes. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to slice without the fillings spilling out.

Use a sharp knife to slice the stromboli into portions. You can make the slices as thick or thin as you like—thicker slices are great for a hearty meal, while thinner ones make perfect appetizers or party snacks.

Serve with warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping. The tangy sauce pairs beautifully with the rich, cheesy filling.

For an added touch of freshness, sprinkle the stromboli with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Stromboli

• Use Cold Dough: If your dough is too warm, it can become sticky and hard to work with. Keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to roll it out.
• Prevent Soggy Stromboli: Avoid adding too many wet ingredients (like extra sauce or moist vegetables) to prevent the dough from becoming soggy. Stick to drier fillings like pepperoni, cheese, and cooked meats.
• Customize the Fillings: This recipe is easily adaptable. Add your favorite pizza toppings like mushrooms, onions, or olives. You can even swap out the pepperoni for sausage, ham, or a combination of meats.
• Don’t Skip the Garlic Butter: Brushing the stromboli with garlic butter is essential for achieving a crispy, flavorful crust. You can also add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for extra cheesy goodness.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy Baked Pepperoni Stromboli is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:

• For Dinner: Pair your stromboli with a simple green salad and a glass of wine for a complete, satisfying meal.
• For Game Day: Cut the stromboli into smaller slices and serve it as a shareable snack during a big game or casual gathering. Add a platter of dips like marinara sauce, ranch dressing, and garlic aioli for guests to choose from.
• For Parties: This stromboli makes an excellent party appetizer. It’s easy to make ahead and serves a crowd. Slice it into bite-sized pieces for easy finger food that everyone will love.
• For Leftovers: Leftover stromboli can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven for a few minutes to restore its crispiness.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Baked Pepperoni Stromboli is the ultimate comfort food—crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. With its easy preparation and crowd-pleasing appeal, this stromboli is a perfect go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding your family, entertaining friends, or just treating yourself, this dish will quickly become a favorite.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with the fillings and seasonings to make this stromboli your own. Whether you stick to the classic pepperoni and cheese or go all out with creative combinations, this recipe offers endless possibilities for customization.

Now that you have all the tools and tips, it’s time to get in the kitchen and make your own Cheesy Baked Pepperoni Stromboli. Enjoy every bite!