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Easy Italian Stromboli Recipe

4.5 from 133 reviews

This Easy Italian Stromboli recipe combines layers of savory deli meats, creamy ricotta, and provolone cheese wrapped in a braided pizza dough and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a flavorful appetizer or a satisfying meal, it pairs wonderfully with warm marinara sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough and Seasoning

  • 1 can (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp Italian seasoning, divided
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 egg, whisked

Cheese and Meats

  • 3 Tbsp ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 lb thinly sliced deli salami
  • 1/4 lb thinly sliced deli ham
  • 2 oz pepperoni
  • 6 slices (about 1 oz each) provolone cheese (or cheese of your choice)

Serving

  • 12 cups marinara sauce, to serve (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
  2. Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese with 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and set aside to allow flavors to meld.
  3. Prepare Dough: Unroll the refrigerated pizza dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Using a knife, make angled cuts along each side of the dough to create strips for braiding later, keeping the center intact.
  4. Spread Ricotta: Evenly spread the ricotta mixture over the center area of the dough, stopping about 1/2 inch away from the edges of the cuts to prevent leaking during baking.
  5. Layer Fillings: On top of the ricotta, layer the provolone cheese slices, followed by the deli salami, ham, and pepperoni evenly to cover the surface.
  6. Braid Dough: Starting at one end, fold the strips of dough over the filling in an alternating, overlapping pattern to create a simple braid. Ensure the dough ends are tucked and sealed well to avoid filling spill-out.
  7. Egg Wash and Season: Brush the whisked egg over the top and sides of the braided dough with a pastry brush. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of Italian seasoning along with additional salt and pepper to taste for added flavor and golden color.
  8. Bake: Place the braided stromboli in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through.
  9. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Slice with a sharp knife into pieces and serve warm, optionally alongside warmed marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

  • Use provolone or substitute with mozzarella or a cheese blend of your preference.
  • Ensure the dough is sealed tightly to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
  • Marinara sauce is optional but adds an authentic Italian flavor when serving.
  • Can be prepared ahead of time and baked fresh when ready.

Keywords: Stromboli, Italian stromboli, baked stromboli, easy stromboli recipe, Italian appetizer, pizza dough recipe, meat and cheese stromboli