This Italian Stromboli Pizza Roll is a warm, golden loaf of pizza dough wrapped around layers of savory deli meats, rich mozzarella cheese, and classic Italian seasoning. Baked until crisp on the outside and irresistibly melty inside, it slices beautifully and is perfect for sharing at family dinners, gatherings, or relaxed movie nights at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe comes together quickly using simple, familiar ingredients and delivers big comfort-food flavor. It is easy enough for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for guests. The combination of crisp crust and stretchy cheese makes every bite satisfying, and the fillings can be adjusted to suit your taste. It is hearty, sharable, and always a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Refrigerated pizza dough, 13 oz
Pizza sauce, 1/4 cup for filling plus extra for serving
Thinly sliced deli ham, 1/4 lb
Sliced deli salami, 1/4 lb
Sliced deli pepperoni, 1/4 lb
Grated mozzarella cheese, 3 cups
Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon
Butter, melted, 2 tablespoons
Garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon
Dried parsley, 1/2 teaspoon
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll the pizza dough out onto the prepared baking sheet and gently stretch it into an even rectangle.
Brush the dough evenly with 1/4 cup of pizza sauce, leaving a small border around the edges.
Layer the ham evenly over the sauce, then sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Add the salami, followed by another cup of cheese. Finish with the pepperoni and the remaining cheese. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning evenly over the top.
Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seams and tuck the ends underneath to seal completely.
Brush the top of the stromboli with melted butter, then sprinkle with garlic powder and dried parsley. Cut a few small slits across the top to allow steam to escape.
Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and crisp.
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with extra pizza sauce on the side.
Swap the deli meats for roasted chicken slices for a different protein option.
Add sliced bell peppers, onions, or olives for extra texture and flavor.
Use provolone or a mozzarella-provolone blend for a slightly sharper cheese profile.
Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes inside for a touch of heat.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8 to 10 minutes to keep the crust crisp and the cheese melty. Avoid reheating in the microwave if possible, as it can soften the crust.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of store-bought?
Yes, homemade pizza dough works very well. Just roll it into a similar-sized rectangle before adding the fillings.
How do I keep the stromboli from opening while baking?
Make sure all seams are tightly pinched and placed seam-side down on the baking sheet.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can assemble it a few hours in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
What is the best cheese for stromboli?
Mozzarella is ideal for its meltability, but blends with provolone or mild cheddar also work.
Do I need to score the top before baking?
Yes, small slits help release steam and prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
Can I freeze stromboli?
Yes, bake it first, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
How do I reheat frozen stromboli?
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Can I serve stromboli at room temperature?
It is best warm, but it can be served at room temperature for parties or picnics.
Why should I let it rest before slicing?
Resting allows the cheese to set slightly, making the slices cleaner and neater.
What can I serve with stromboli?
A fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of light soup pair very well with it.
Conclusion
Italian Stromboli Pizza Roll is a reliable, satisfying dish that brings together familiar flavors in an easy, shareable format. With its crisp crust, gooey cheese, and savory filling, it is perfect for casual dinners, entertaining, or anytime you want a comforting meal without extra effort. Once you try it, it is sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.
A golden roll of pizza dough filled with layers of deli meats, melty mozzarella, and classic Italian flavors. Perfect for casual meals or entertaining, it’s hearty, comforting, and easy to slice and share.
Ingredients
13 oz refrigerated pizza dough
1/4 cup pizza sauce (plus extra for serving)
1/4 lb thinly sliced deli ham
1/4 lb sliced deli salami
1/4 lb sliced deli pepperoni
3 cups grated mozzarella cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
2 tbsp butter, melted
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp dried parsley
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out pizza dough into a rectangle on the baking sheet.
Spread 1/4 cup pizza sauce over dough, leaving edges bare.
Layer with ham, 1 cup mozzarella, salami, 1 cup mozzarella, pepperoni, and remaining mozzarella. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
Roll tightly from one long edge. Pinch seams and tuck ends under.
Brush top with melted butter. Sprinkle with garlic powder and parsley. Cut a few small slits on top for steam.
Bake 20 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Let rest 5 minutes before slicing.
Serve warm with extra pizza sauce.
Notes
Ensure seams are well sealed to prevent leaking during baking.
Letting the stromboli rest helps the cheese set before slicing.
Optional: add veggies or substitute meats as desired.
