Why Make This Recipe

Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of Italian meats and cheeses wrapped in a golden, freshly baked dough. It’s perfect for parties, gatherings, or a cozy dinner at home. This recipe is not only easy to make but allows you to customize the ingredients to suit your taste. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with marinara sauce, making it a hit for both kids and adults.

How to Make Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread

Ingredients

440 grams all-purpose flour
7 grams active dry yeast
240 milliliters warm water (about 45°C)
30 milliliters olive oil
13 grams sugar
6 grams salt
170 grams sliced pepperoni
170 grams sliced Genoa salami
170 grams sliced ham or prosciutto
200 grams shredded mozzarella cheese
50 grams grated Parmesan cheese
1 small green bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 egg
15 milliliters water (for egg wash)
Marinara sauce, for serving

Directions

Dissolve the yeast and sugar in the warm water in a small bowl. Allow it to stand for 5–10 minutes until the surface becomes frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a cohesive dough forms.
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead by hand for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover and let it rise in a warm area for 60–90 minutes until it doubles in volume.
While the dough rises, thinly slice all meats, peppers, and onions. Mix the minced garlic with Italian seasoning in a small bowl.
Deflate the risen dough. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle of approximately 30 x 40 centimeters.
Arrange the sliced pepperoni, salami, and ham evenly over the dough, leaving a 2-centimeter border. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly, then add sliced bell pepper and onion if desired. Scatter the garlic-seasoning mixture over the top.
Starting from a long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the edges and ends to seal completely.
Position the log seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly cover it and let it rest briefly while the oven preheats.
Beat the egg with water and brush the surface of the rolled dough with the egg wash. Using a sharp knife, make several shallow diagonal slashes to allow steam to escape.
Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C for 25–30 minutes, or until thoroughly golden and cooked through.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes. Slice into portions and serve warm with marinara sauce.

How to Serve Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread

Serve the stromboli warm, cut into slices. It goes great with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It works well as an appetizer, snack, or even a main dish.

How to Store Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread

To store leftovers, wrap the stromboli tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it by wrapping it well and storing it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place it in the oven or microwave until warm.

Tips to Make Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread

Make sure your warm water is not too hot; it should be around 45°C to activate the yeast properly.
Feel free to customize the fillings according to your preferences, using any of your favorite meats, veggies, or cheeses.
If you like a crispy crust, bake the stromboli directly on a pizza stone or a baking sheet.

Variation

For a vegetarian version, skip the meats and fill the stromboli with cooked vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or artichokes, along with your favorite cheeses. You can also add pesto for additional flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! You can use any cheese you like. Provolone or gouda are excellent alternatives to mozzarella.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the filling and roll the stromboli a day ahead. Keep it in the refrigerator and bake it just before serving.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Ensure your yeast is active; it should be frothy after mixing with warm water and sugar. If it doesn’t foam, try again with new yeast. Also, check if the area is warm enough for rising.

Enjoy your delicious Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread!