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Pepperoni Stromboli with Pizza Dough Recipe

4.9 from 84 reviews

This Pepperoni Stromboli recipe features a crispy golden crust filled with melted mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and savory pepperoni slices. Perfect as a hearty appetizer or main dish, it is baked to golden perfection and served with tangy pizza sauce for dipping.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Stromboli:

  • 8 ounces thinly sliced deli pepperoni
  • 2 pound pizza dough ball
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
  • 3 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese (about 12 ounces)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, finely grated (about 2 ounces)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 ½ teaspoons sesame seeds

For Serving:

  • Pizza sauce

Instructions

  1. Render Excess Fat from the Pepperoni: Line a microwave-safe plate with two sheets of paper towel. Arrange a few slices of pepperoni to cover the plate and microwave on HIGH for 30 seconds. Transfer cooked pepperoni to a clean plate, discard the paper towels, and repeat until all pepperoni is cooked and excess fat is rendered.
  2. Prepare Oven and Baking Sheets: Position oven racks in the upper middle and lower middle slots. Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and set aside.
  3. Divide and Prep Dough: Lightly flour your countertop and divide the pizza dough ball into two 1-pound portions. Cover one dough ball with a clean kitchen towel while working with the other.
  4. Shape and Brush Dough: Pat one dough ball into a 12×10-inch rectangle. Brush the edges of the dough with ½ tablespoon of olive oil.
  5. Add Cheese and Pepperoni: Sprinkle 1½ cups of shredded mozzarella evenly over the dough. Layer half of the rendered pepperoni slices on top, followed by ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
  6. Fold the Dough: Fold one long side of the dough over to the center, then fold the opposite long side over and pinch the seams tightly together to seal.
  7. Prepare for Baking: Place the stromboli seam-side down on a prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water. Brush half of this egg wash on top of the stromboli, then sprinkle with ¾ teaspoon of sesame seeds. Cut five deep slits into the top for steam release. Lightly spray a large piece of foil with nonstick spray and loosely cover the stromboli. Repeat this entire filling and shaping process with the second dough ball and remaining ingredients.
  8. Bake: Bake both strombolis in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Carefully remove the foil, rotate the pans, and continue baking for another 25–30 minutes until the crust is deeply golden and cooked through.
  9. Cool and Serve: Transfer strombolis to a wire rack to cool for 5 minutes. Slice into 2-inch pieces and serve warm with pizza sauce for dipping.

Notes

  • Rendering the pepperoni first prevents excess grease from making the stromboli soggy.
  • Brush the dough edges with olive oil to help seal and add flavor to the crust.
  • Make sure to cut slits on top to allow steam to escape, preventing soggy dough.
  • The egg wash gives the stromboli a golden, shiny crust.
  • Use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
  • Serve immediately for best taste and crispiness.

Keywords: Pepperoni Stromboli, stromboli recipe, pizza dough stromboli, pepperoni filled stromboli, baked stromboli