Cheesy Pepperoni & Mozzarella Stromboli Recipe

If there’s one dish I could rave about endlessly, it would be this Cheesy Pepperoni & Mozzarella Stromboli. Imagine warm, golden-baked dough stuffed to the brim with gooey mozzarella and spicy pepperoni, all wrapped up like a dreamy Italian gift. Every bite is oozing with rich, savory flavors and melty cheese that stretches perfectly — and trust me, it’s as fun to make as it is to eat! Plus, with a side of marinara for dipping, this stromboli is a sure-fire winner for family dinners, game day spreads, or just a cozy night in. If you’re looking for a simple meal that feels like a celebration, this is the one.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a ton of ingredients to create a truly irresistible Cheesy Pepperoni & Mozzarella Stromboli. Each component plays a special role, coming together to make every slice tender, cheesy, and full of flavor. Here’s a peek at what you’ll want to grab:

• Pizza Dough: Fresh or store-bought, this is your canvas — it crisps up beautifully and holds all those delicious fillings inside.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melty and mild, mozzarella ensures every bite is packed with that signature stretchy cheese pull.
• Sliced Pepperoni: Classic and zesty, pepperoni brings a bit of spice and a hearty, satisfying bite.
• Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs adds a bold pop of Italian-inspired flavor to the filling and crust.
• Olive Oil: Brushed on top, it helps the crust bake up golden and crisp while boosting overall flavor.
• Marinara Sauce (Optional): The perfect finishing touch for dipping, bringing a little tang and extra pizzazz to every slice.

How to Make Cheesy Pepperoni & Mozzarella Stromboli

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Before you get started, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your Cheesy Pepperoni & Mozzarella Stromboli bakes quickly and evenly, preserving the gooey cheese inside while crisping up the bread perfectly. Lay out all your ingredients, and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup down the road.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

Time to get a bit hands-on! On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a rectangle—about 12 by 8 inches is perfect. Try to keep it even, but don’t stress about perfection; stromboli is wonderfully rustic. This size gives enough space for all those fabulous fillings while ensuring the dough rolls up nicely.

Step 3: Layer the Fillings

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the dough, leaving about an inch border around all the edges. Add the pepperoni slices in an even layer right on top of the cheese. Scattering the Italian seasoning over everything brings the flavors together in classic Italian style, turning every bite into something special.

Step 4: Roll and Seal

Now for the fun part! Starting on one long edge, roll the dough up gently but tightly to enclose all those tasty layers. Pinch the edge to seal up the roll, then place it seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Don’t forget to pinch in the ends so none of that cheesy goodness leaks out while baking.

Step 5: Brush and Slice

Use a pastry brush to coat the top of the stromboli with olive oil. This helps it get that gorgeous golden glow as it bakes. With a sharp knife, cut a few small slits across the top—these act as vents, letting steam escape and keeping your crust crisp instead of soggy.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop the stromboli into your hot oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The dough should be deeply golden and feel crisp to the touch; if you see some cheese bubbling out the sides, even better! Let it cool slightly before slicing, as this helps the cheese set a bit, giving you neater pieces.

How to Serve Cheesy Pepperoni & Mozzarella Stromboli

Garnishes

For that final bright touch, sprinkle the hot stromboli with chopped fresh parsley or basil just after baking. A sprinkle of grated parmesan or a dash of extra Italian seasoning is always welcome, too. Both boost the aroma and hint at the flavors within!

Side Dishes

No need to overthink it — a simple Caesar salad or mixed greens with a balsamic vinaigrette pairs beautifully with your Cheesy Pepperoni & Mozzarella Stromboli. If you want to go classic, don’t forget a bowl of warm marinara sauce for dipping. Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or bell peppers, make a fantastic, colorful addition to your dinner spread.

Creative Ways to Present

This stromboli is as versatile as can be! Try slicing it into bite-sized pinwheels for a family gathering or game day crowd. Arrange slices in a swirl on a large platter with extra dipping sauces in the center for a photo-worthy centerpiece. For a cozy dinner, serve whole slices alongside a pile of napkins and encourage everyone to get a little messy — it’s part of the fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have leftovers? Lucky you! Simply let your Cheesy Pepperoni & Mozzarella Stromboli cool to room temperature, then wrap slices in plastic wrap or foil. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and you’ll have a delicious snack or lunch ready to go.

Freezing

If you’d like to save some for later, stromboli holds up beautifully in the freezer. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil, then pop them into a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to two months. Just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the slices on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes, or until they’re heated through and the cheese is melty again. The microwave works in a pinch, but the crust will be crispier with the oven method.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While mozzarella gives that classic stretch and mild flavor, you can mix in provolone, fontina, or even a bit of parmesan for a richer taste. Just be sure your picks are good melting cheeses for that irresistible gooey texture.

Is it possible to make Cheesy Pepperoni & Mozzarella Stromboli ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the stromboli, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it up to a day ahead. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature while the oven preheats, then bake as directed. It’s perfect for prepping before a party!

How do I keep the stromboli from getting soggy?

The secret is to leave a border around the edges so your fillings stay tucked inside, and don’t overdo the cheese and pepperoni. The small slits on top also help vent steam, keeping your crust crisp and delicious.

Can I make Cheesy Pepperoni & Mozzarella Stromboli vegetarian?

No problem! Just leave out the pepperoni and swap in your favorite veggies, like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted peppers. Make sure to pat them dry so they don’t add too much extra moisture to the filling.

What’s the difference between stromboli and calzone?

Great question! Both are stuffed with amazing fillings, but stromboli is rolled up like a big log before baking and sliced after, while calzones are folded over like a pocket or turnover. The technique gives stromboli its signature swirl and easy-to-share slices.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to treat yourself or wow your next dinner crowd, give this Cheesy Pepperoni & Mozzarella Stromboli a try. It’s cozy, festive, and totally satisfying — just the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Happy baking, and don’t forget the marinara for dipping!