Stuffed Stromboli with Sausage and Pepperoni is a cheesy, golden-baked Italian-American classic made with pizza dough, bold meats, and melted mozzarella. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or game nights.
Why This Stuffed Stromboli Is So Popular
There is something deeply satisfying about slicing into a warm stromboli and seeing layers of melted cheese stretch between savory sausage and pepperoni. This recipe delivers comfort and bold flavor in every bite. It is easy enough for a busy evening, yet impressive enough to serve guests without stress.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing spoon
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Sharp knife
- Pastry brush
- Oven
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 can (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
- ½ lb Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 20 slices pepperoni
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
- 1 egg, beaten (optional, for egg wash)
- Marinara sauce, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, about 12 x 8 inches.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Distribute the cooked sausage and pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese layer.
- Season with garlic powder and Italian seasoning for extra depth of flavor.
- Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log, jelly-roll style. Pinch the seam and ends firmly to seal.
- Place the stromboli seam-side down on the baking sheet. Brush the top with olive oil or egg wash for a glossy finish.
- Cut a few small slits on top to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.
- Let the stromboli rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with marinara sauce.
Tips for a Perfect Stromboli
- Do not overload the filling to avoid tearing the dough.
- Seal the edges well to keep the cheese from leaking out.
- Let the stromboli rest before slicing to keep the layers intact.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
Flavor Variations and Add-Ins
- Add sautéed bell peppers or onions for extra sweetness.
- Use spicy Italian sausage for a bolder kick.
- Swap mozzarella with provolone for a sharper flavor.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before baking for gentle heat.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover stromboli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it softens the crust.
Approximate Nutrition Per Serving
- Calories: 420–460 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 24g
- Sodium: Moderate to high
Preparation Time Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: About 35 minutes
- Servings: 4–6 slices
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare stromboli ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a few hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Can I freeze stromboli?
Yes, bake it first, let it cool completely, then freeze for up to 2 months.
Why did my stromboli open while baking?
This usually happens if the dough was overfilled or not sealed tightly.
Can I use homemade dough?
Absolutely. Homemade pizza dough works very well and adds extra flavor.
Final Tip
Stromboli is all about balance. When the dough is crisp, the filling generous but controlled, and the cheese perfectly melted, you get a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting every single time.
