For many of us, food is more than just sustenance; it’s a delightful avenue to reminisce about cherished times spent with friends and family. When I think of hearty, comfort-filled dishes that make my taste buds sing, **Cheesy Stromboli with Marinara Sauce** forges quite the front-runner! This dish has held a special place in my heart since I first whipped it up one chilly evening when my friends decided to have a pizza party but of course, we were feeling a little adventurous. That evening, as we rolled the dough and stuffed it with gooey cheese and all the fixings, laughter and the comforting aroma of baking bread filled our cozy kitchen—talk about soul food!
One of the things I love most about this **Stromboli** is its versatility. You can switch things up per your mood or whatever is available in your fridge. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good cheesy dish? Today, I’m excited to share my version of this scrumptious recipe with you, promising to whisk you away to pizza-party paradise!
What’s in Cheesy Stromboli with Marinara Sauce?
– 1 lb pizza dough: Whether you’re rolling your own or grabbing a pre-made version from the store, this is the foundational layer that holds our stromboli together. I usually go for the fresh dough from my local bakery; it’s always a game changer!
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey delight that pulls it all together! I prefer whole milk mozzarella for extra creaminess.
– 1 cup shredded provolone cheese: Adds a lovely sharp flavor that complements the mozzarella perfectly. Mix it up with smoked provolone for a smoky twist!
– 1/2 cup pepperoni slices: A must for that classic pizza flavor. Sliced thin, these add a satisfying crunch!
– 1/2 cup cooked Italian sausage: Crumbled for texture and packed with flavor, you might want to sneak in a little extra!
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers: I love the color and crunch they add. Go with a mix of red and green for a visually appealing filling.
– 1/4 cup diced red onion: Sweet and tangy, this adds another flavor dimension that elevates the dish.
– 1 tsp garlic powder: Because garlic makes everything better!
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives our filling that authentic Italian touch.
– 1 egg (for egg wash): This will give your stromboli a beautiful golden-brown sheen.
– 2 tbsp olive oil: For brushing and a rich flavor profile that complements all the fillings.
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A touch of freshness to round out each slice with grace.
– Marinara sauce (for serving): The perfect dipping companion for that extra layer of flavor.
Is Cheesy Stromboli with Marinara Sauce Good for You?
Let’s chat about health for a second! While **Cheesy Stromboli** is, of course, a treat—loaded with cheesy goodness, delightful meats, and colorful veggies—it can certainly fit into a balanced diet if enjoyed in moderation.
The combination of mozzarella and provolone cheese delivers a good dose of calcium and protein, while bell peppers and red onion pack in vitamins and antioxidants. However, it’s worth noting that with the inclusion of meats like pepperoni and Italian sausage, it does lean heavier in saturated fats and sodium. So, if you’re watching your salt intake or are looking to lighten it up a bit, swapping out meats for more veggies or going light on cheese can help.
As always, I’m a firm believer in balance—indulge your cravings now and then, and you’ll find joy in your meals!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
– 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
– 1/2 cup cooked Italian sausage, crumbled
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (red and green)
– 1/4 cup diced red onion
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– 1 egg (for egg wash)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Marinara sauce (for serving)
How to Make Cheesy Stromboli with Marinara Sauce?
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to catch those tasty drips.
2. Flour a surface and roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle, about 12×16 inches. Get it as thin as you dare, but not so thin that it tears!
3. In a bowl, mix together the mozzarella, provolone, pepperoni, Italian sausage, bell peppers, red onion, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until well combined. The mixture should look like a cheesy party waiting to happen!
4. Spread the cheesy and meaty mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving about 1 inch of space along the edges—this helps with rolling and sealing.
5. Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log shape, pinching the edges to seal it—like wrapping a big present!
6. Place the rolled stromboli seam-side down on your baking sheet. Brush the top with olive oil and cut a few slits in the top of the dough to allow steam to escape (unless you want a messy explosion in your oven, and trust me, you don’t!).
7. Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the top of the stromboli to give it that golden finish we all love.
8. Pop it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling like a hot spring of happiness!
9. Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes (patience, my friend) before slicing it into hearty pieces.
10. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside marinara sauce for dipping. Go ahead, dive in!
Add a Twist to Your Stromboli!
Don’t be afraid to unleash your inner culinary artist! You can customize the fillings with other meats like chicken or turkey, throw in sautéed mushrooms or spinach, or even make it a vegetarian feast with just the colorful veggies and cheese! For a little extra crunch, consider topping it with sesame seeds before baking. If you prefer a crispier crust, feel free to bake on a pizza stone rather than a baking sheet—it’s a nifty trick that will elevate your stromboli game!
I can’t wait for you to try this **Cheesy Stromboli with Marinara Sauce**. It’s perfect for gatherings, movie nights, or when you simply want to treat yourself after a long day. Remember to drop by and share your experiences, tips, or any creative twists you’ve made along the way. Happy cooking!
