Pepperoni and Cheese Stromboli Recipe

Introduction

This Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake is the perfect easy weeknight dinner, combining gooey melted cheese, savory pepperoni, and soft dough in one irresistible package. Ready in under an hour, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal that feels special without requiring much effort. Serve it with marinara sauce for dipping and watch it disappear from the table.

Ingredients

This Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake delivers golden, flaky crust wrapped around bubbling mozzarella and savory pepperoni for the ultimate comfort food experience.

• 1 pound pre-made pizza dough
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 16 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 6 ounces pepperoni slices
• 1 cup marinara sauce for serving

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	25 minutes
Total Time	40 minutes

Context: This Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake is about 20% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Dough

Roll out one pound of pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a 10×14-inch rectangle. Let the dough rest for 5 minutes if it becomes too elastic.

Step 2 — Layer the Fillings

Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Evenly distribute 2 cups of shredded mozzarella and 4 ounces of sliced pepperoni over the sauce.

For extra flavor, sprinkle ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of Italian seasoning over the toppings.

Step 3 — Roll the Stromboli

Starting from a long side, tightly roll the dough into a log, pinching the seam and ends to seal. Place the log seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4 — Score and Brush

Use a sharp knife to make 4-5 shallow diagonal slashes on top of the stromboli. Brush the entire surface with olive oil or an egg wash for a golden, crisp crust.

Step 5 — Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 25–30 minutes, until the crust is deeply golden and firm to the touch. The internal temperature should reach 190°F for fully cooked dough.

Step 6 — Rest and Slice

Let the Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This allows the cheese to set slightly, ensuring neat portions.

Step 7 — Serve Warm

Slice the stromboli into 1½-inch thick pieces. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.

Nutritional Information

Calories	420
Protein	18g
Carbohydrates	35g
Fat	22g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	980mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey Pepperoni — Leaner protein with classic spicy flavor but less saturated fat.
• Whole-Wheat Pizza Dough — Adds fiber and nutrients while maintaining a chewy texture.
• Part-Skim Mozzarella — Reduces fat content but keeps the essential gooey, melty quality.
• Cauliflower Crust — A low-carb, gluten-free base that crisps up nicely when baked.
• Vegan Cheese & Plant-Based Pepperoni — Dairy-free and plant-based, offering a similar savory, satisfying bite.
• Low-Sodium Cheese & Meats — Cuts down on salt without sacrificing the rich, savory profile.
• Add Veggies Like Spinach or Bell Peppers — Boosts nutrition and adds freshness and color to the bake.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair your Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake with a crisp Caesar salad or fresh garden salad for a balanced meal
• Serve alongside marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic dipping sauce for extra flavor
• Perfect for game day gatherings, family movie nights, or casual weeknight dinners
• Cut into thick slices for hearty portions or thin slices for party appetizers
• Complement with roasted vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini
• Great for potlucks and parties – this stromboli bake travels well and feeds a crowd
• Serve warm from the oven with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for presentation

This Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake makes an impressive centerpiece for casual entertaining while being simple enough for everyday family meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold dough straight from the fridge. Fix: Let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes so it stretches easily without tearing.
• Mistake: Overloading the filling, causing leaks. Fix: Use a moderate amount of cheese and pepperoni, leaving a 1-inch border for sealing.
• Mistake: Rolling the dough too thin. Fix: Aim for a ¼-inch thickness to create a sturdy, bread-like crust that holds the filling.
• Mistake: Skipping the egg wash before baking. Fix: Brush the dough with a beaten egg for a beautifully golden, glossy finish.
• Mistake: Not sealing the edges properly. Fix: Press the seams firmly and use a fork to crimp them, preventing filling from oozing out.
• Mistake: Cutting into the Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake immediately. Fix: Let it rest for 5–10 minutes so the cheese sets and doesn’t run everywhere.
• Mistake: Baking at the wrong temperature. Fix: Use an oven thermometer to ensure a hot 400°F for a crisp exterior and fully melted interior.
• Mistake: Using only one type of cheese. Fix: Combine low-moisture mozzarella for meltiness with provolone or Parmesan for a more complex flavor.
• Mistake: Forgetting to vent the top. Fix: Slash the dough in a few places to let steam escape and avoid a soggy bottom.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 15-20 minutes if refrigerated or 25-30 minutes if frozen.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure your Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake is reheated to a safe temperature before serving.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or game day. If you enjoyed this recipe, try our Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs Recipe next! Let us know how yours turned out in the comments and subscribe for more easy meal ideas.

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FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake a day in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or entertaining.

What can I use instead of pepperoni in this recipe?

You can substitute pepperoni with other meats like cooked Italian sausage, ham, or salami. For a vegetarian version, use sliced mushrooms, olives, or roasted bell peppers to maintain the delicious flavor profile of your Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake.

How do I get a golden, crispy crust on my stromboli?

For a perfectly golden and crispy crust, brush the outside of your stromboli with an egg wash or melted butter before baking. Also, ensure your oven is fully preheated. This technique gives your Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake a beautiful, bakery-style finish.