Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake

If you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and irresistibly satisfying, this Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake is the ultimate comfort food. Loaded with gooey mozzarella, zesty pepperoni, and aromatic Italian seasonings, all wrapped in a golden, flaky crust, this dish is a family favorite that tastes straight out of a pizzeria but it’s made right in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the best parts of pizza and a calzone; melty cheese, flavorful fillings, and soft, buttery dough, into one easy-to-make bake. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or casual gatherings. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable with your favorite pizza toppings, from veggies to sausage.

Time Taken

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Grocery List

Refrigerated Section:

• 1 can refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade if preferred)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 large egg (for egg wash)

Deli/Meat:

• ½ cup sliced pepperoni

Pantry:

• ½ cup pizza sauce (plus extra for dipping)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ons:

• Sliced black olives
• Chopped bell peppers or onions
• Crushed red pepper flakes for heat
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Ingredients

• 1 (13.8 oz) can refrigerated pizza dough
• ½ cup pizza sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup sliced pepperoni
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 large egg, beaten (for brushing)
• Optional: chopped basil or parsley for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
2. Assemble the Stromboli:
   Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
3. Add the Fillings:
   Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce, then layer with pepperoni slices. Add any optional toppings like olives, peppers, or onions.
4. Roll and Seal:
   Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log, pinching the seams and ends to seal. Place the seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush and Bake:
   Brush the top with beaten egg, then sprinkle with Italian seasoning and garlic powder. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
6. Slice and Serve:
   Let the Stromboli cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with extra pizza sauce for dipping.

Storage Tips

Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes or in an air fryer for best results. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Cheese: Substitute mozzarella with provolone, cheddar, or an Italian blend.
• Dough: Use puff pastry or crescent roll dough for a lighter version.
• Sauce: Try marinara, Alfredo, or pesto instead of pizza sauce.
• Meat: Swap pepperoni for cooked sausage, ham, or shredded chicken.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake with a side salad, roasted veggies, or garlic breadsticks for a full Italian-inspired meal. It’s also perfect for party platters, slice into smaller pieces for bite-sized snacks that disappear fast!

You Must Know

For the perfect Stromboli, don’t overload the fillings, too much sauce or cheese can cause it to burst open while baking. Also, make sure to seal the edges tightly and vent the top with small slits if needed.

Chef’s Special Tips

• Chill the dough slightly before rolling for easier handling.
• Sprinkle a bit of cornmeal or parmesan on the baking sheet for extra flavor and crunch.
• For a bakery-style finish, brush the top with garlic butter right after baking.
• Freeze unbaked Stromboli for up to 2 months, bake directly from frozen, adding 5–10 extra minutes.

Cultural and Historical Background

The Stromboli originated in the United States in the 1950s, believed to have been created by Italian-American immigrants. Named after the volcanic Italian island of Stromboli, the dish is essentially a rolled version of pizza, filled with cheese, cured meats, and sauce, then baked to perfection. Unlike calzones, which are folded pockets often served with sauce on the side, Stromboli is rolled and sliced, revealing beautiful spirals of melted cheese and toppings inside.

Over time, Stromboli became a beloved part of American-Italian cuisine, often enjoyed during parties, sports events, and family gatherings. The addition of pepperoni and mozzarella gives it that classic, crowd-pleasing flavor that’s both nostalgic and irresistible.

Conclusion

Warm, cheesy, and loaded with Italian flavor, this Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake is the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to impress. Whether it’s family dinner night, game day, or a quick weekend bake, it’s a guaranteed hit. Roll it up, bake it golden, and slice into pure cheesy goodness, once you make it, you’ll never go back to takeout!

FAQs