Cheesy Pepperoni & Mozzarella Stromboli Recipe

If you’re craving a mouthwatering, golden-crusted treat that oozes cheesy goodness and savory flavor, the Cheesy Pepperoni & Mozzarella Stromboli is about to become your new favorite recipe to share and savor. This glorious, shareable roll channels all the best parts of pizza and takes them to another level, wrapping gooey mozzarella and zesty pepperoni in tender, crisp pizza dough. It’s a fantastic choice for game day snacks, quick dinners, or fun get-togethers with friends, letting you slice off a piece of comfort and gather everyone around the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the greatest joys of making this Cheesy Pepperoni & Mozzarella Stromboli is how surprisingly simple the ingredient list is — you only need a handful of basics, but each one is essential in building layers of flavor and that impossible-to-resist texture. Think of this as a perfect blend: crusty dough, melty cheese, salty pepperoni, and aromatic herbs, creating a symphony in every bite.

• Pizza dough: The backbone of the recipe, whether store-bought or homemade, provides a chewy, golden casing for all the good stuff inside.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: The star that melts into luscious strings of creamy cheese; fresh-grated gives you the best melt.
• Sliced pepperoni: Brings spot-on spicy, salty depth and classic pizzeria vibes — layer generously for best results.
• Italian seasoning: A simple sprinkle of herbs lifts everything, infusing the stromboli with irresistible aroma and flavor.
• Olive oil: A brush over the top brings that signature shine and helps the crust bake up extra crisp and golden.
• Marinara sauce (optional): A warm, tangy dip on the side for dunking every slice, making this dish utterly crave-worthy.

How to Make Cheesy Pepperoni & Mozzarella Stromboli

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot by the time you’re ready to bake. High heat helps the dough puff up golden brown and ensures all the cheese inside gets perfectly melted.

Step 2: Roll and Layer

Dust your work surface lightly with flour. Roll out your pizza dough into a rectangle — about 10 by 14 inches if you like specifics, but don’t stress about perfection. Once rolled, evenly scatter the shredded mozzarella cheese across the surface, followed by the sliced pepperoni, leaving about half an inch clear along all edges. This border is important to help seal the stromboli later and hold in all that delicious filling.

Step 3: Season and Roll Up

Give a generous sprinkle of Italian seasoning over the cheese and pepperoni. Now, starting from one of the longer sides, tightly roll the dough up into a log, tucking the filling inside as you go. Pinch the seam closed and seal the ends by folding them underneath. This step is key to keeping everything from bubbling out in the oven!

Step 4: Prep for Baking

Carefully transfer your log onto a baking sheet, seam-side down. Using a sharp knife, gently cut a few small diagonal slits across the top. These allow steam to escape during baking, keeping your stromboli golden and flaky instead of soggy. Brush the whole surface generously with olive oil to guarantee a glorious, shiny crust.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Slide the stromboli into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the crust is deeply golden and crisp. The irresistible aroma is your sign it’s almost ready! Let it cool for a few minutes on the pan before slicing — this gives the cheese a moment to settle so every piece stays perfectly gooey, not messy.

How to Serve Cheesy Pepperoni & Mozzarella Stromboli

Garnishes

A scatter of chopped fresh basil or parsley adds a pop of color and a light herbal freshness that really plays off the richness of the cheese and pepperoni. For an extra Italian touch, a light shower of grated Parmesan over the warm stromboli is never a bad idea.

Side Dishes

While the Cheesy Pepperoni & Mozzarella Stromboli is more than satisfying on its own, it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, roasted veggies, or a big bowl of classic Caesar salad. And of course, a warm dish of marinara sauce on the side is essential for dunking.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, slice the stromboli into thin rounds and arrange them in a spiral on a platter for a beautiful, inviting shareable centerpiece. You could also serve mini strombolis by slicing before baking and arranging the individual pieces on a tray for an irresistible appetizer spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Cheesy Pepperoni & Mozzarella Stromboli tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to three days and makes a fantastic grab-and-go snack or quick lunch the next day.

Freezing

To freeze, let the baked stromboli cool completely, then wrap it securely in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge so it reheats evenly.

Reheating

The easiest way to bring leftover stromboli back to life is in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and the crust crisps back up. If you’re short on time, quick bursts in the microwave work too, but the oven helps keep it just as delicious as when freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use different cheeses in my stromboli?

Absolutely! While mozzarella creates that classic stretchy melt, you can mix in provolone, cheddar, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor. Just be cautious of overly oily cheeses so your stromboli stays crisp.

What other fillings can I try?

Feel free to get creative! Cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, roasted peppers, or even a swipe of pesto can add a new twist to your Cheesy Pepperoni & Mozzarella Stromboli. Just make sure to avoid watery fillings which could make the crust soggy.

Can I make the stromboli ahead of time?

Yes! You can roll up and assemble the stromboli, then store it (covered) in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Bake fresh when you’re ready to serve for best results.

How do I keep the dough from sticking while rolling?

Lightly flouring your work surface (and rolling pin, if using) will prevent sticking and ensure smooth rolling. If you’re using particularly sticky dough, don’t hesitate to dust with a bit more flour as you go.

What’s the difference between stromboli and calzone?

Great question! Stromboli is rolled up into a log and sliced after baking, revealing beautiful swirls of filling, while calzones are folded into half-moons and baked individually. Both are delicious, but stromboli is made for sharing!

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser or a cozy family treat, look no further than the Cheesy Pepperoni & Mozzarella Stromboli. It’s simple to make, incredibly satisfying, and always a hit. Don’t wait for a special occasion — gather your ingredients and enjoy this comforting classic tonight!