Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake is the perfect easy weeknight dinner that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. With layers of savory pepperoni, gooey melted cheese, and soft dough baked to golden perfection, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal ready in no time. Ideal for busy evenings, this comforting dish brings the taste of your favorite pizza-inspired treat straight to the dinner table.

Ingredients

This Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake combines golden, flaky pizza dough with bubbling mozzarella and savory pepperoni for an irresistible family meal.

• 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 to handle.

Step 2 — Layer the Fillings

Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Top with shredded mozzarella and sliced pepperoni evenly.

For extra flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan and dried oregano over the cheese and pepperoni.

Step 3 — Roll the Stromboli

Starting from one 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 — Preheat and Rest

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the rolled stromboli rests for 10–15 minutes. This helps the dough relax and rise slightly before baking.

Step 6 — Bake to Perfection

Bake the Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).

If cheese begins to bubble out, it’s a good sign the stromboli is fully cooked inside.

Step 7 — Cool and Slice

Let the baked stromboli rest on the pan for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This allows the cheese to set, making cleaner slices.

Use a serrated knife to cut the stromboli into 1½-inch thick pieces for serving.

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 the same spicy kick and classic flavor.
• Whole-Wheat Pizza Dough — Adds fiber and nutrients while keeping the chewy texture.
• Cauliflower Crust — Lower-carb option that’s gluten-free and light.
• Part-Skim Mozzarella — Reduces fat without sacrificing the gooey, melty goodness.
• Vegan Cheese — Dairy-free alternative that still delivers creamy, savory notes.
• Low-Sodium Pepperoni & Sauce — Cuts salt significantly while maintaining rich Italian flavor.
• Chicken Sausage — Leaner protein swap with herby, garlicky notes.
• Zucchini & Mushroom Filling — Adds veggies for moisture and earthy flavor without extra carbs.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake with a crisp Caesar salad or fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside warm marinara or garlic dipping sauce for extra flavor.
• Perfect for game day gatherings, family dinners, or casual potlucks.
• Slice into thick portions for a hearty main course or thinner pieces for appetizers.
• Accompany with roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini to balance the richness.
• Great for kids’ parties—cut into fun shapes or smaller bites.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

This Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake is versatile enough for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to festive get-togethers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold dough straight from the fridge. Fix: Let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes; this prevents tearing and ensures even baking.
• Mistake: Overloading the Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake with too much filling. Fix: Use a moderate amount to allow the dough to seal properly and cook through.
• Mistake: Skipping the egg wash before baking. Fix: Brush the dough with a beaten egg for a beautifully golden, crisp exterior.
• Mistake: Not venting the top of the stromboli. Fix: Cut several shallow slits to let steam escape and prevent a soggy, burst crust.
• Mistake: Using low-moisture cheese that doesn’t melt well. Fix: Opt for high-quality, full-fat mozzarella and provolone for optimal stretch and flavor.
• Mistake: Slicing the baked stromboli immediately after removing it from the oven. Fix: Let it rest for 5–10 minutes so the cheese sets and doesn’t ooze out.
• Mistake: Rolling the dough too thin. Fix: Aim for a ¼-inch thickness to create a sturdy base that holds the fillings without breaking.
• Mistake: Baking on a cold sheet pan. Fix: Preheat your baking sheet in the oven for a crispier bottom crust on your Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake.
• Mistake: Ignoring the internal temperature. Fix: Bake until the center reaches 190°F–200°F, ensuring the dough is fully cooked.
• Mistake: Not seasoning the filling adequately. Fix: Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to elevate the flavor profile.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool your Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap the cooled bake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place slices in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat slices in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 10-15 minutes if refrigerated or 20-25 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. If you loved this recipe, try our Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs Recipe or Tremendous Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Recipe next. Share your results in the comments and subscribe for more easy, delicious meals!

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FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake up to a day in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold.

What can I use instead of pepperoni in this recipe?

You can substitute pepperoni with cooked sausage, ham, or salami. For a vegetarian version, try using sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or meatless pepperoni. The Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake is versatile and works well with many fillings.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven or toaster oven until warm and crispy. This method helps maintain the best texture for your stromboli bake.