Crispy Italian Stromboli Roll with Melted Mozzarella Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or dried oregano directly into the dough before adding the meat.

You can also experiment with different types of cured meats, such as spicy pepperoni or capicola, to change the flavor profile of the stromboli. Just be sure to pat any particularly oily meats dry with a paper towel before adding them to the dough to prevent excess grease.

If you prefer a darker, more glossy crust, you can substitute the golden glaze with a simple egg wash made by whisking one egg with a tablespoon of water.

This creates a professional, shiny finish that looks excellent when served on a rustic wooden board. Always remember to score the top of the dough lightly with a knife to allow steam to escape during baking, which prevents the crust from cracking.

Variations

• Spicy Pepperoni Stromboli: Replace the salami with spicy pepperoni slices and add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes over the cheese before rolling for a bold, spicy kick in every bite.
• Veggie-Loaded Stromboli: Include sautéed bell peppers, onions, and spinach along with the cheese. Ensure the vegetables are well-drained of excess moisture to keep the dough crisp and light.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

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

Reheat

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Store any leftover stromboli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the best texture, wrap the slices in foil rather than plastic wrap.

This prevents the dough from becoming overly soft while it is stored. If you have a large amount left over, consider storing individual slices separately so they are easier to grab and reheat for a quick lunch or snack later in the week.

You can assemble the stromboli up to four hours before baking, provided you keep it covered in the refrigerator. If you choose to do this, take the roll out about 20 minutes before baking to allow it to come closer to room temperature. This helps the dough bake more evenly and prevents the center from staying cold while the outside browns too quickly in the oven.

Serving ideas

Serve the stromboli sliced into thick, generous portions while it is still warm and the cheese is soft. Arrange the slices on a rustic wooden board or a large serving platter to showcase the beautiful layers of meat and cheese. It is visually appealing and makes it easy for guests or family members to help themselves to a piece of the crispy, savory roll.

A warm side of marinara sauce is the perfect accompaniment for dipping. The acidity of the tomato sauce cuts through the richness of the cheese and cured meats, balancing every bite.

You can serve the sauce in a small ramekin alongside the slices, or pour it into a shallow bowl for easy dipping. Adding a side salad with a bright vinaigrette also makes for a complete and satisfying meal.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Crispy Italian Stromboli Roll with Melted Mozzarella

Prep 15 minCook 25 minRest 5 minTotal 45 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb pizza dough, at room temperature
• 6 oz deli ham, thinly sliced
• 4 oz salami, thinly sliced
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 tbsp golden glaze
• 1 tsp italian seasoning

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll the pizza dough out onto a piece of parchment paper into a large rectangle, ensuring it is even in thickness to promote consistent baking throughout the roll.
2. Evenly distribute the ham and salami slices over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the meat layers to ensure every bite is cheesy.
3. Tightly roll the dough into a log, pinching the seams shut. Brush the exterior with the golden glaze mixed with Italian seasoning. Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Contains: gluten, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

420

Protein

18 g

Carbohydrates

45 g

Fat

18 g

Fiber

2 g

Sugar

3 g

Sodium

950 mg

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