Deluxe Stromboli – A Feast of Flavor in Every Slice! 

Instructions for Making Deluxe Stromboli

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the Stromboli from sticking.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

1. Prepare the pizza dough: If using store-bought dough, let it come to room temperature for 15-20 minutes to make it easier to roll. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, about 12 inches by 14 inches. Aim for an even thickness across the dough.
2. Season the dough: Brush the dough lightly with olive oil, and sprinkle it with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. This will enhance the flavor of the dough and help it crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

1. Spread the marinara: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the center of the dough, leaving about 1 inch from the edges for sealing. You don’t want too much sauce, as it could make the Stromboli soggy.
2. Add the meats: Layer the pepperoni, salami, and ham on top of the sauce. You can also add other deli meats like capicola or prosciutto for an even more decadent version.
3. Add the cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the meats. Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed to ensure every bite is ooey, gooey, and cheesy.
4. Add extra fillings (optional): At this point, you can add any extra veggies like red onions, bell peppers, black olives, or fresh spinach to give your Stromboli a burst of color and flavor.

Step 4: Roll Up the Stromboli

1. Roll the dough: Starting from one of the long edges, carefully roll the dough up like you would a jelly roll or cinnamon roll. Roll tightly but not too tight to ensure the filling stays inside. Pinch the ends and seams of the dough to seal it completely.
2. Place on the baking sheet: Once rolled, place the Stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. If you have any remaining marinara sauce, you can spread a thin layer on top of the Stromboli for extra flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Stromboli

1. Brush with garlic butter (optional): For an extra delicious touch, brush the top of the Stromboli with melted garlic butter. This will give it a rich, golden, and aromatic finish.
2. Bake: Place the Stromboli in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also use a toothpick or skewer to test the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready!

Step 6: Slice and Serve

1. Cool slightly: Once the Stromboli is out of the oven, let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set a little, making it easier to cut.
2. Slice: Using a sharp knife, slice the Stromboli into 1- to 2-inch thick slices, depending on your preference.
3. Serve with marinara: Serve the Deluxe Stromboli warm, with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping. It’s the perfect accompaniment to this cheesy, savory dish.

Tips for the Perfect Deluxe Stromboli

• Don’t overstuff: While it’s tempting to add tons of fillings, overstuffing your Stromboli can cause it to break open while baking. Stick to the recommended amount of fillings, and be sure to seal the dough well.
• Use a pizza stone for crispier results: If you have a pizza stone, preheat it in the oven and bake your Stromboli directly on it. This will create a crispy crust on the bottom.
• Make it your own: Feel free to get creative with the ingredients! Swap in different types of cheese like provolone or gouda, or add sautéed mushrooms, pepperoncini, or fresh herbs like basil or oregano to personalize the filling.
• Frozen dough works too: If you don’t want to make your own pizza dough, store-bought frozen dough is a great shortcut. Just let it thaw according to the package instructions before using.
• Serve with sides: Pair your Deluxe Stromboli with a side of garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables to round out the meal.

Variations on Deluxe Stromboli

• Vegetarian Stromboli: Skip the meats and load up the Stromboli with fresh veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, spinach, and olives. You can also add ricotta or goat cheese for a creamy, flavorful twist.
• BBQ Chicken Stromboli: Use grilled or rotisserie chicken and replace the marinara sauce with BBQ sauce. Add red onion and cilantro for a fun spin on the classic.
• Buffalo Chicken Stromboli: If you’re a fan of spicy flavors, make a buffalo chicken version by using cooked chicken mixed with buffalo sauce. Add blue cheese or ranch for extra creaminess.

Conclusion

The Deluxe Stromboli is the ultimate comfort food, combining the flavors of a classic pizza with the irresistible appeal of a crispy, golden pastry. Packed with savory meats, gooey cheese, and the option for extra veggies, it’s an easy-to-make, customizable dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it up for a family dinner, hosting a party, or just craving something delicious, this Stromboli will be a hit every time.

With its versatility and bold flavor, the Deluxe Stromboli is sure to become a regular on your meal rotation—one bite and you’ll see why it’s a feast of flavor in every slice!