Pepperoni Black Olive Stromboli Recipe
Diving into the world of savory, cheesy goodness, the Pepperoni Black Olive Stromboli Recipe is an absolute game changer for any pizza lover. Imagine layers of stretchy mozzarella, sharp Parmesan, zesty pepperoni, and briny black olives all wrapped up in a tender, golden crust that’s baked to perfection. This Stromboli isn’t just a meal; it’s a flavor-packed adventure that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a satisfying snack any day of the week. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a firm favorite at my table and why it’s bound to become one at yours too.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients come together effortlessly to create a Stromboli that balances flavor, texture, and color beautifully. Every element plays a key role in making this dish irresistibly tasty and satisfying.
- 12×15 inch pizza dough (soft and stretchy): Provides the perfect canvas for all the delicious fillings and ensures a chewy, crispy crust.
- Marinara sauce, about 1/4 cup: Adds that vibrant tomato base with a touch of herbaceous sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Infuses the sauce with aromatic herbs, lifting every bite with classic Italian flair.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into creamy pockets that create a gooey and comforting texture.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, salty counterpoint to the mozzarella’s mildness.
- 20-25 slices of Italian pepperoni: Brings that spicy, smoky punch that’s essential for a bold flavor profile.
- 1/4 cup black olives, pitted and sliced: Adds a salty, slightly tangy contrast that enhances the overall taste.
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Used to create a glossy, golden-brown exterior that’s simply irresistible.
How to Make Pepperoni Black Olive Stromboli Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by rolling out your soft and stretchy pizza dough on a floured surface until it forms a 12 by 15 inch rectangle. Achieving an even thickness here is key to creating a base that’s sturdy enough to hold all the fillings but still soft when baked.
Step 2: Layer the Sauce and Seasoning
Spread about a quarter cup of marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a one-inch border around the edges to make rolling easier. Then, sprinkle the Italian seasoning across the sauce to build an aromatic flavor foundation that perfectly complements the toppings.
Step 3: Add the Cheese and Toppings
Next, generously scatter the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top. The cheese blend melts beautifully inside the Stromboli, creating a luscious, gooey texture. Follow this up with a layer of pepperoni slices and the sliced black olives. The olives add not only color but also a briny counterbalance to the pepperoni’s richness.
Step 4: Roll and Seal
Carefully roll the dough lengthwise into a tight log, making sure to tuck in the edges as you go to encase the filling completely. Firmly pinch the seams and ends to keep everything sealed, preventing any of that delicious filling from leaking out during baking.
Step 5: Apply Egg Wash and Bake
Brush the rolled Stromboli with the beaten egg. This egg wash gives it that glossy, golden finish once baked. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet and slide it into your preheated oven set at 400°F (200°C). Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the crust is puffed, beautifully browned, and crisped to perfection.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
After baking, allow the Stromboli to rest for about 10 minutes. This brief cooling time lets the cheesy filling settle, making slicing much cleaner and preventing a messy ooze. Cut it into 1-inch slices and serve warm for the best taste experience.
How to Serve Pepperoni Black Olive Stromboli Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or a dusting of grated Parmesan on top adds an elegant touch and enhances the Italian vibe. For a little heat, crushed red pepper flakes are a fantastic option that ties in beautifully with the pepperoni’s spiciness.
Side Dishes
Pair this Stromboli with a fresh green salad tossed lightly in vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables or a simple garlic bread make excellent companions, rounding out the meal with contrasting textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the Stromboli into smaller, bite-sized pieces and serving it as an appetizer at your next gathering. Or, wrap individual slices in parchment paper for a fun, portable lunch option that’s just as delightful on the go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Stromboli can be wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerated for up to 3 days. This keeps the crust from drying out and the filling fresh for easy re-heating.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, the Stromboli freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, placing it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To maintain that crisp crust and melted cheese, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep it as close to freshly baked as possible.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough works wonderfully and saves you prep time. Just make sure it’s soft and pliable for easy rolling.
What can I substitute for black olives if I don’t like them?
If black olives aren’t your favorite, try sliced green olives, artichoke hearts, or even roasted red peppers for a different but equally delicious flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the Stromboli and freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly and store in the freezer, then bake from frozen with a few extra minutes added to the baking time.
Can I make this Stromboli with gluten-free dough?
Definitely! Just use your preferred gluten-free pizza dough. Keep in mind the texture might vary slightly, but the flavors will still be fantastic.
How spicy is this Pepperoni Black Olive Stromboli Recipe?
The pepperoni adds a mild to moderate spice level, balanced nicely by the savory olives and cheeses. If you want it spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes inside before rolling.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Pepperoni Black Olive Stromboli Recipe that brings people together around the table. The combination of hearty ingredients wrapped in a golden crust creates a dish that’s comforting, fun, and utterly delicious. Give it a try, and I promise it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes for any occasion.
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Pepperoni Black Olive Stromboli Recipe
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A delicious Pepperoni Black Olive Stromboli featuring a soft, stretchy pizza dough rolled with marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, flavorful Italian pepperoni slices, and savory black olives. Perfectly baked to a golden brown with a shiny egg wash finish, this Stromboli is a flavorful, easy-to-make Italian-inspired dish ideal for a satisfying meal or appetizer.
Ingredients
Stromboli Dough and Base
- 1 (12×15 inch) pizza dough, soft and stretchy
- About 1/4 cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Cheeses and Toppings
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 20–25 slices Italian pepperoni
- 1/4 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
For Finishing
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface into a neat rectangle about 12×15 inches, maintaining an even thickness to provide a sturdy yet foldable base for the filling.
- Layer the Sauce and Seasoning: Spread a thin, even layer of marinara sauce over the dough, leaving about a one-inch margin along the edges. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning evenly atop the sauce to infuse aromatic flavors.
- Add the Cheese and Toppings: Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce. Layer the pepperoni slices evenly, then scatter the sliced black olives to ensure balanced flavor in every slice.
- Roll and Seal: Carefully roll the dough lengthwise into a tight log, tucking in the edges as you go to keep the filling secure inside. Pinch the seams and the ends firmly to seal the Stromboli completely to prevent leakage during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash and Bake: Brush the entire surface of the Stromboli with the beaten egg to achieve a glossy golden finish. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, until the Stromboli is beautifully browned and puffed.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the baked Stromboli to rest for about 10 minutes so the filling sets, which helps avoid messy slices. Then cut into 1-inch pieces and serve warm for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- Ensure the dough is rolled to an even thickness for uniform baking.
- Do not overload with sauce to prevent soggy dough.
- Sealing the edges well is crucial to keep the filling inside during baking.
- Resting the Stromboli after baking helps maintain clean slices.
- Can be served with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
