Cheesy Stuffed Stromboli with Pepperoni and Sausage Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For an extra-glossy, golden crust, lightly brush the top of the rolled dough with a beaten egg or a little olive oil before placing it in the oven. This adds a beautiful sheen and helps the herbs adhere to the surface. You can also sprinkle a little grated Parmesan cheese or coarse salt on top for added texture and flavor.

If you find the dough is too elastic and keeps snapping back while you are trying to roll it out, simply cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the dough much more pliable and easier to stretch into the desired rectangular shape without tearing.

Variations

• Veggie Delight: Replace the sausage and pepperoni with a colorful mix of sautéed bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and spinach. Ensure all vegetables are well-drained after sautéing to prevent excess moisture.
• Four Cheese: Omit the meat entirely and use a blend of mozzarella, provolone, ricotta, and parmesan. Add a pinch of dried oregano and garlic powder to the cheese mixture for extra depth.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 1 month.

Reheat

Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through and the crust is crisp again.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness. The stromboli will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Allow the stromboli to cool at room temperature for no more than 2 hours before placing it in the refrigerator. This prevents excess condensation from forming, which would otherwise soften the crust and make it soggy over time.

You can assemble the stromboli in advance and keep it in the refrigerator for up to two hours before baking. If you need to prepare it further ahead, store the individual components separately and assemble it just before you are ready to bake.

Baking it fresh provides the best texture for the crust, so it is recommended to wait until you are close to serving time to put it in the oven.

Serving ideas

Serve the stromboli warm, sliced into thick, generous portions. It pairs excellently with an extra side of warmed marinara sauce for dipping, which enhances the tomato flavor and adds moisture.

A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette is a perfect accompaniment, as the acidity of the dressing balances the richness of the cheese and sausage perfectly.

For a casual gathering, slice the stromboli into smaller, finger-food-sized pieces. Arrange them on a platter alongside other appetizers to create a diverse and satisfying spread.

Ensure you provide plenty of napkins, as the cheesy, warm center can be quite indulgent. Serving it while the cheese is still warm and stretchy is the key to providing the best possible experience for your guests.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Cheesy Stuffed Stromboli with Pepperoni and Sausage

Prep 15 minCook 25 minRest 5 minTotal 45 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb stromboli dough, store-bought or made ahead
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
• 1/2 lb sausage, casings removed
• herbs, for serving

Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked through. Ensure the sausage reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to be safe for consumption. Drain any excess fat and set the meat aside to cool slightly before assembling.
2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the stromboli dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border at the edges. Layer the cooked sausage, pepperoni slices, and shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Roll the dough tightly, tucking in the ends to seal the filling inside.
3. Place the stromboli seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle the top with herbs. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing with a spatula to enjoy the warm, cheesy interior.

Contains: gluten, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

450

Protein

18 g

Carbohydrates

45 g

Fat

21 g

Fiber

2 g

Sugar

3 g

Sodium

950 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.