Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread

Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread is a delightful dish that combines a crunchy exterior with a soft, savory center, filled with flavorful meats and cheeses. This versatile recipe is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or as a comforting weeknight meal. You’ll love how it brings together the best of Italian flavors in an easy-to-make stuffed bread that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The homemade dough and simple filling make this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavor Packed: With layers of turkey pepperoni, turkey slices, and gooey mozzarella cheese, each bite is bursting with flavor.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or swap out meats to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day, a picnic, or a cozy family dinner, this stromboli fits right in.
• Great Leftovers: Enjoy it the next day—just reheat and savor the deliciousness.

Tools and Preparation

Making Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread requires some essential tools to ensure your cooking experience goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Sharp knife
• Brush for egg wash

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl ensures you have enough room to combine ingredients without spills.
• Rolling pin: This tool helps create an even dough thickness, which is crucial for uniform baking.
• Baking sheet: A parchment-lined baking sheet prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

To create this delicious Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dough

• 440 grams all-purpose flour
• 7 grams active dry yeast
• 240 milliliters warm water (about 45°C)
• 30 milliliters olive oil
• 13 grams sugar
• 6 grams salt

For the Filling

• 170 grams sliced turkey pepperoni
• 170 grams sliced Genoa turkey slices
• 170 grams sliced chicken ham or turkey slices
• 200 grams shredded mozzarella cheese
• 50 grams grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 small green bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

For Finishing Touches

• 1 egg
• 15 milliliters water (for egg wash)
• Marinara sauce, for serving

How to Make Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

1. Dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water in a small bowl.
2. Allow it to stand for 5–10 minutes until frothy on top.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Pour in the yeast mixture along with olive oil.
3. Mix until a cohesive dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

1. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface.
2. Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4: Let it Rise

1. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl.
2. Cover it and let it rise in a warm area for 60–90 minutes until doubled in size.

Step 5: Prepare Fillings

1. While the dough rises, thinly slice all meats, peppers, and onions.
2. In a small bowl, mix minced garlic with Italian seasoning.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

1. Once risen, deflate the dough gently.
2. Roll it into a rectangle about 30 x 40 centimeters on a floured surface.

Step 7: Assemble the Stromboli

1. Arrange sliced turkey pepperoni, turkey slices, and chicken ham evenly over the dough while leaving a 2-centimeter border.
2. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over meat layers.
3. Distribute bell pepper and onion if using; scatter garlic-seasoning mixture over everything.

Step 8: Roll Up the Dough

1. Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape.
2. Pinch edges and ends to seal completely.

Step 9: Preheat Oven & Prepare for Baking

1. Position log seam-side down on parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Lightly cover while preheating oven to 200°C.

Step 10: Egg Wash & Score

1. Beat egg with water for washing.
2. Brush rolled dough surface with egg wash; make shallow diagonal slashes on top for steam escape.

Step 11: Bake Your Stromboli

1. Bake in preheated oven for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 12: Cool & Serve

1. Remove from oven; let cool for about 5–10 minutes before slicing into portions.
2. Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread!

How to Serve Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread

Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether for a casual dinner, party, or game day, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

With Marinara Sauce

• Serve warm slices with marinara sauce for dipping to enhance the flavors of the meats and cheeses.

As a Sandwich

• Slice the stromboli into thick pieces and use them as sandwich bread, filling them with fresh veggies and condiments.

Accompanied by Salad

• Pair with a side salad, such as Caesar or mixed greens, to add freshness and balance out the richness of the stromboli.

With Garlic Butter

• Brush slices lightly with garlic butter before serving for an extra layer of flavor that complements the cheesy filling.

For Game Day Snacks

• Cut into bite-sized pieces to serve as finger food during parties or game days. These are perfect for sharing!

How to Perfect Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread

Making Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread is simple, but a few tips can help ensure it’s perfect every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh meats and cheeses will maximize flavor and texture in your stromboli.
• Knead Properly: Knead the dough until smooth and elastic; this ensures a light and airy bread.
• Don’t Skip the Rise: Allow the dough to rise fully to achieve that soft and fluffy interior.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or meats while keeping within the suggested alternatives.
• Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated correctly for even baking, which leads to a perfectly golden crust.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread

To complement your Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread, consider these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft knots brushed with garlic butter are a perfect companion for dipping in marinara.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds depth to your meal.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil provides a crunchy texture.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make an excellent hearty side.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw can provide crunch and cut through the richness of the stromboli.
7. Zucchini Fries: Baked or fried zucchini sticks serve as a lighter alternative to traditional fries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can make your Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread even more delicious. Here are some common errors to watch out for:

• Skipping the yeast activation: Not allowing the yeast to froth can lead to dense bread. Always let it sit in warm water with sugar for 5–10 minutes.
• Overworking the dough: Kneading too long can toughen the bread. Aim for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic, but don’t go beyond that.
• Not rolling evenly: Uneven thickness prevents consistent baking. Roll the dough into a uniform rectangle for even cooking.
• Ignoring resting time: Skipping the resting phase can affect texture. Let your dough rise until doubled for a light and airy result.
• Underestimating bake time: Every oven is different; don’t rely solely on time. Check for a golden crust and internal temperature to ensure it’s fully cooked.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
• Best consumed within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread

• Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and heat for 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, covered, for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread that may help enhance your cooking experience.

What is Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread?

Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread is a savory roll filled with meats, cheese, and seasonings, baked until golden brown.

Can I customize the fillings of my Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix your favorite meats, vegetables, or cheeses to create your own unique version of this stuffed bread.

How do I know when my Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread is done baking?

Look for a golden-brown crust on top and an internal temperature of about 90°C (200°F) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

What sauces pair well with Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread?

Marinara sauce is classic, but you can also serve it with ranch dressing or spicy mustard for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different ingredients based on your preferences. Whether served as an appetizer or main dish, this stuffed bread is sure to impress friends and family alike. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful flavors!