Easy Italian Stromboli Recipe
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.
- Author: Lisa
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
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
- 1–2 cups marinara sauce, to serve (optional)
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Bake: Place the braided stromboli in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through.
- 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