If you are craving a warm, savory meal bursting with flavors of Italy, you must try this Cheesy Italian Sausage and Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe. Imagine a golden, crispy crust wrapped around gooey mozzarella, sharp Parmesan, spicy Italian sausage, and pepperoni, all harmonized by herbs and a hint of garlic. This stromboli is a perfect blend of textures and tastes, delivering a deliciously cheesy, meaty delight that’s sure to become one of your favorite go-to dishes for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, trustworthy ingredients sets the foundation for this irresistible dish. Each component brings its own magic—whether it’s the fluffed yeast dough providing a sturdy yet soft casing, the fresh herbs enhancing aroma, or the cheeses melting beautifully to create that signature gooey pull.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for your stromboli dough, giving it structure and chewiness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Feeds the yeast to help the dough rise to perfection.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and creates a tender dough texture.
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast: Responsible for that perfect fluffy rise.
- 3/4 cup warm water: Activates the yeast, establishing the dough’s life.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle garlicky aroma into the crust.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a classic Italian herbal note.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Contributes fresh, sweet undertones.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a delicate warmth that wakes up the taste buds.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts into a creamy, stretchy layer inside.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Brings a nutty, sharp kick to balance the mozzarella.
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled: The hearty, spiced protein that gives savory depth.
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices: Adds a slightly smoky, zesty accent.
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced: Offers freshness and a subtle crunch.
- 1/4 cup onion, diced: Provides sweetness and a touch of bite.
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce: Ties all the filling ingredients together with its tangy tomato goodness.
How to Make Cheesy Italian Sausage and Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing the all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. These dry ingredients are the backbone of the dough, balancing flavor and texture. Next, add olive oil, which lends the dough tenderness and richness.
Step 2: Activate the Yeast
In a separate small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water and let it rest for 5 minutes until it forms a frothy layer. This step proves that your yeast is alive and ready to give the dough its perfect rise.
Step 3: Combine and Knead Dough
Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture, stirring until a sticky dough forms. Turn it onto a lightly floured surface and knead vigorously for about 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This kneading develops the gluten structure essential for that chewy interior and crisp crust.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about one hour or until doubled in size. This resting period lets the dough relax and develop flavor, creating a soft, airy interior for your stromboli.
Step 5: Prepare the Filling
While the dough rises, cook the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Then, crisp up the pepperoni slices in the same skillet for a couple of minutes to enhance their flavor. Dice the bell pepper and onion and set all the fillings aside—this colorful medley will add texture and vibrant pops of flavor inside your stromboli.
Step 6: Assemble the Stromboli
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a 12 by 8-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, and black pepper for that signature Italian seasoning.
Step 7: Layer the Filling and Roll
Now for the fun part: layer shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, cooked sausage, crispy pepperoni, diced bell pepper, and onion on the dough. Drizzle marinara sauce over everything, providing tangy moisture that will complement the richness of the meats and cheeses. Carefully roll the dough into a tight log starting from one edge and seal the edges well to keep all that goodness inside.
Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the seam side down on your baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, cut a few small slits on top to let steam escape. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the crust is a gorgeous golden brown and smells absolutely heavenly. Let it cool slightly before slicing to allow the cheesy filling to set nicely.
How to Serve Cheesy Italian Sausage and Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley on top brightens up the presentation and adds fresh herbal notes. Serving with a small bowl of warm marinara sauce on the side invites everyone to dip and savor every cheesy bite even more.
Side Dishes
This stromboli pairs beautifully with a crisp, green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or a light bowl of tomato basil soup for comforting warmth. Roasted vegetables or a simple antipasto platter also complement the Italian flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting your stromboli into bite-sized pinwheels for party platters or packed lunches. You can also slice it thick for a hearty main course or serve it alongside garlic knots and breadsticks for an Italian feast that’ll wow your friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover stromboli tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days without losing that fresh-baked flavor and texture, perfect for quick meals or snacks.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, freeze the fully baked stromboli wrapped securely in foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the stromboli on a baking sheet and heat in a preheated 350°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and the crust revives its crispness. Avoid microwaving, which can make the crust soggy and the cheese too runny.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pizza dough instead of making my own?
Absolutely! Store-bought dough can be a great time-saver and will still give you a delicious stromboli. Just roll it out and follow the filling and baking steps as usual.
Can I customize the filling in this Cheesy Italian Sausage and Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe?
Definitely! This recipe is versatile, so feel free to swap or add vegetables like mushrooms or olives, try different cheeses, or adjust the meats to your preference for your perfect stromboli.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking during baking?
Make sure to seal the dough edges really well when rolling. Chilling the rolled stromboli in the fridge briefly before baking can also help it hold together better.
Is the stromboli safe to eat cold?
Yes, stromboli can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making it excellent for picnics or lunches. The flavors often develop even more when it sits for a few hours.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs for seasoning?
No worries! Dried garlic powder, oregano, and basil work perfectly in this recipe and add that classic Italian flavor even if fresh herbs aren’t on hand.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Cheesy Italian Sausage and Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe enough for anyone who loves bold, comforting flavors wrapped in a golden crust. It’s a joyful dish to make and an even bigger pleasure to share with loved ones. Give it a try, and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
Cheesy Italian Sausage and Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Stromboli recipe features a homemade yeast dough rolled with a flavorful filling of Italian sausage, pepperoni, mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh vegetables. Baked to a golden brown crust and served with marinara sauce, this classic Italian-American dish makes a hearty and delicious meal perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm water
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Fillings
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup onion, diced
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar to prepare the base for the dough.
- Add Olive Oil: Stir the olive oil into the flour mixture to help incorporate fat evenly into the dough.
- Activate Yeast: Dissolve the active dry yeast in the warm water in a small bowl and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Form Dough: Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture and stir until a dough starts to form.
- Knead Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Let Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Cook Sausage: While the dough rises, cook the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, then crumble it into small pieces.
- Prepare Pepperoni: Using the same skillet, cook the pepperoni slices for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly crispy, then set aside.
- Prepare Vegetables: Dice the green bell pepper and onion, setting them aside with the other fillings.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Shape Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release air, transfer it to a floured surface, and roll it out into a 12 x 8 inch rectangle.
- Season Dough: Evenly sprinkle the garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, and black pepper over the rolled dough.
- Add Fillings: Layer the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, cooked sausage, pepperoni, diced bell pepper, and onion on top of the seasoned dough.
- Spread Sauce: Drizzle the marinara sauce evenly over the filling ingredients to add moisture and flavor.
- Roll Stromboli: Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, sealing the edges well to prevent leakage.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the stromboli seam side down on the prepared baking sheet and make a few small slits on top to allow steam to escape while baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Allowing the dough to rise fully ensures a tender, airy crust.
- For a spicier stromboli, add crushed red pepper flakes to the filling or dough.
- You can substitute Italian sausage with ground beef or turkey if preferred.
- Make sure to seal the rolled dough tightly to avoid filling leakage during baking.
- Use parchment paper on the baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
