Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe

Try This Irresistible Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe Today

Crafting a delectable cheesy pepperoni stromboli always sparks culinary excitement in my kitchen.

Rolled dough becomes a canvas for flavor adventures waiting to unfold.

Hearty ingredients dance together, promising a mouthwatering experience that catches everyone’s attention.

My Italian-inspired creation brings comfort and joy to weekend gatherings.

Melted cheese and spicy pepperoni create a perfect harmony inside golden-brown pastry.

Each slice delivers a burst of savory goodness that makes taste buds dance.

Dive into this recipe and transform an ordinary meal into an extraordinary feast.

Tips for Golden Crust and Melted Cheese

  • Prevent Soggy Bottoms: Pat pepperoni slices with paper towels to remove excess oil before layering, ensuring a crisp crust.
  • Seal Edges Perfectly: Pinch and fold stromboli edges tightly to prevent cheese from leaking during baking.
  • Enhance Flavor Boost: Brush the top with garlic-infused olive oil or sprinkle dried Italian herbs for extra taste complexity.
  • Slice Smartly: Let stromboli rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to help cheese set and make cutting easier without filling oozing out.
  • Customize Easily: Swap pepperoni with ham, salami, or create a vegetarian version using roasted vegetables and different cheese blends.

Keep Your Stromboli Fresh and Crisp Later

  • Store leftover stromboli in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Wrap individual slices in aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  • Warm slices at 350F for 10-12 minutes until cheese melts and edges crisp. This method restores the original crispy texture.
  • Heat slices for 30-45 seconds for a quick meal. Note that microwaving might soften the crust slightly.
  • Wrap stromboli tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.

What to Enjoy with Pepperoni Stromboli

  • Choose a bold red like Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon that cuts through the rich, cheesy pepperoni flavors with its robust tannins and complementary fruit notes.
  • Whip up a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the stromboli's heaviness, adding a zesty, fresh counterpoint to the indulgent rolled bread.
  • Serve alongside quick cucumber tzatziki or marinated olives to introduce a cool, tangy element that refreshes the palate between cheesy, spicy bites.
  • Select an amber ale or hoppy IPA that stands up to the stromboli's intense pepperoni and cheese, providing a crisp, malty backdrop that enhances the overall taste experience.

Easy Twists on Classic Stromboli

  • Gluten-Free Version: Substitute regular pizza dough with a gluten-free blend, using a premade mix or creating a homemade alternative with almond flour and xanthan gum to maintain the stromboli's signature texture.
  • Vegetarian Delight: Replace pepperoni with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, complemented by plant-based cheese for a hearty meatless option that doesn't compromise on flavor.
  • Low-Carb Option: Swap traditional dough for a cauliflower-based crust or use thin slices of zucchini as a wrapper, keeping the cheesy core while reducing carbohydrate content for those following ketogenic or low-carb diets.
  • Spicy Kick Version: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes inside the stromboli for those craving extra heat, transforming the classic recipe into a fiery crowd-pleaser.

Common Questions About Pepperoni Stromboli

  • What ingredients make the best stromboli?

Mozzarella and provolone cheeses create a gooey, stretchy filling. High-quality pepperoni adds rich, savory flavor. Pizza dough provides the perfect crispy yet soft base for the roll.

  • Is stromboli difficult to make at home?

Not at all! It’s actually quite simple. Roll out the dough, layer your ingredients, and carefully roll it up. Most home cooks can master this recipe in under an hour.

  • Can I customize the stromboli filling?

Absolutely! While pepperoni is classic, you can swap in ham, salami, or even vegetarian ingredients like roasted vegetables. Just keep the cheese and basic technique the same.

  • What's the secret to preventing a soggy stromboli?

Avoid overloading with wet ingredients. Pat down ingredients like pepperoni to remove excess oil. Also, let the stromboli rest for a few minutes after baking to help set the filling and prevent soggy bottoms.

Why Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Is a Flavor Bomb

  • This stromboli delivers restaurant-style deliciousness in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy families craving a satisfying meal without complicated cooking steps.
  • Packed with melty cheese and savory pepperoni, this recipe guarantees smiles from kids and adults alike, transforming dinner into a fun, shared experience that everyone will enjoy.
  • Home cooks can effortlessly swap ingredients, add extra toppings like vegetables or different meats, and create a personalized version that matches their taste preferences without compromising the core recipe's simplicity.
  • The stromboli works brilliantly for casual game day gatherings, movie nights, or impromptu friend meetups, offering a delicious handheld meal that impresses without requiring complex preparation.

What You’ll Need for Pepperoni Stromboli

Bread Base:
  • Pizza Dough: Soft, stretchy foundation for the stromboli, helps create a crispy exterior with a tender inside.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Essential for dusting work surface and preventing sticking.
Filling Proteins:
  • Pepperoni, Mozzarella Cheese: Perfect flavor partners that melt together for a rich, savory center. Choose high-quality, thinly sliced pepperoni and low-moisture mozzarella for best results.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty depth to the overall flavor profile.
Finishing and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Olive Oil: Helps create a golden, crispy crust and adds a subtle richness.
  • Italian Seasoning: Brings aromatic herbs to boost the stromboli's taste.
  • Egg Wash: Provides a beautiful golden sheen and helps seal the dough.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing the overall flavor.

Instructions to Assemble and Bake Stromboli

Step 1: Prepare Baking Surface

Preheat oven to 400F (200C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Step 2: Roll Out Pizza Dough

Spread pizza dough on a clean surface. Use a rolling pin to create a rectangular shape, aiming for an even thickness across the entire surface.

Step 3: Layer Delicious Fillings

Add ingredients in this order:
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Provolone cheese
  • Pepperoni slices
  • Italian herbs
  • Grated parmesan

Step 4: Create Tight Roll

Carefully roll the dough from the long side, tucking ingredients inside. Pinch edges to seal and prevent filling from escaping during baking.

Step 5: Seal And Decorate

Fold and tuck the end edges underneath the roll. Place seam-side down on prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Brush With Flavor

Brush the top of the roll with:
  • Olive oil
  • Dried Italian herbs
  • Garlic powder

Step 7: Bake To Golden Perfection

Slide baking sheet into preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the exterior turns golden brown and crispy.

Step 8: Rest And Slice

Remove from oven. Let stromboli rest for 5-10 minutes. Slice diagonally into appetizing portions.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe

Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Pepperoni stromboli delivers a mouthwatering Italian-American classic that combines crispy dough, melted cheese, and spicy pepperoni in one irresistible roll. Slice this golden-brown delight and savor each hearty bite of flavor-packed goodness that satisfies your comfort food cravings.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 lb (454 grams) fresh salmon, skin removed and finely chopped

Main Dry Ingredients:

  • ½ cup (60 grams) panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup (60 grams) almond flour (alternative low-carb option)

Seasonings and Binding Ingredients:

  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder

Sauce Ingredients:

  • 1 ripe avocado
  • ¼ cup (60 milliliters) Greek yogurt
  • ¼ cup (60 milliliters) mayonnaise (dairy-free alternative)
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons water (adjust for consistency)

Garnish and Serving:

  • Fresh cilantro or parsley
  • Lemon wedges
  • Cooked quinoa
  • Cooked rice
  • Salad

Instructions

  1. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper and preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring an even cooking environment.
  2. Roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangular shape, creating a smooth, flat surface for layering ingredients.
  3. Spread a generous layer of marinara sauce across the dough, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent overflow during rolling.
  4. Arrange pepperoni slices evenly over the sauce, creating a uniform coverage that will distribute flavor throughout the stromboli.
  5. Sprinkle a mixture of mozzarella and provolone cheeses over the pepperoni, ensuring complete and consistent cheese distribution.
  6. Carefully fold the long edges of the dough inward, then roll the stromboli from one end to the other, creating a tight, sealed cylinder.
  7. Pinch the seams and ends of the dough securely to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
  8. Brush the exterior of the stromboli with olive oil and make a few small diagonal slits on top to allow steam to escape.
  9. Transfer the prepared stromboli to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and crispy.
  10. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow the cheese to set and prevent immediate filling spillage.
  11. Cut into thick slices and serve warm, accompanied by additional marinara sauce for dipping if desired.

Notes

  • Gently stretch pizza dough to prevent tearing and ensure an even, thin layer for the best texture.
  • Layer pepperoni and cheese strategically, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
  • Brush the exterior with egg wash or olive oil to create a golden, crispy crust that adds extra flavor and shine.
  • Consider using a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and provolone for a more complex, rich taste profile that elevates the classic stromboli.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 500 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Jamie Granger

Jamie Granger

Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

  • Fusion Cuisine Development
  • Recipe Development and Food Styling
  • Culinary Writing and Content Creation
  • Nutrition and Healthy Cooking​

Education

Culinary Institute of America

  • Degree: Associate in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Emphasis on flavor development, classic and contemporary culinary techniques, menu design, and global cuisine preparation; combined with food-service management, communication, and finance training; and immersive hands‑on restaurant operations through paid industry internships.

Jamie Granger turns ingredients into memories. With her recipes, she brings a fusion-forward flair to every creation. 

Her dishes reflect the places she’s explored, the chefs she’s learned from, and the deep connection she has to food as a form of expression. 

At Pass and Provision, Jamie develops recipes that balance flavor, health, and beauty, meals that don’t just satisfy your appetite but speak to your curiosity.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star