Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread

Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread is a delightful dish that combines the best of savory flavors wrapped in homemade dough. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or game day, this stuffed bread offers a crunchy exterior and a soft, cheesy center. The combination of turkey pepperoni and chicken ham makes it a delicious alternative that everyone will enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Flavor Packed: The mix of meats, cheeses, and seasonings creates a rich flavor that will satisfy your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or slice it into smaller pieces for an appetizer at parties.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the meats according to your preferences.
• Great Leftovers: This stromboli keeps well in the fridge, making it an excellent option for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this flavorful dish, ensure you have the right tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Sharp knife
• Small bowl (for yeast mixture)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining your dough ingredients effectively.
• Rolling pin: Ensures even rolling of the dough, making it easier to fill and shape.
• Sharp knife: Useful for making steam slashes on the stromboli before baking.

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Ingredients

To create this Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dough

• 440 grams all-purpose flour
• 7 grams active dry yeast
• 240 milliliters warm water (about 45°C)
• 30 milliliters olive oil
• 13 grams sugar
• 6 grams salt

For the Filling

• 170 grams sliced turkey pepperoni
• 170 grams sliced Genoa turkey slices
• 170 grams sliced chicken ham or turkey slices
• 200 grams shredded mozzarella cheese
• 50 grams grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 small green bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

For Finishing Touches

• 1 egg
• 15 milliliters water (for egg wash)
• Marinara sauce, for serving

How to Make Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

Dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water in a small bowl. Allow it to stand for 5–10 minutes until frothy on top.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine flour and salt.
2. Pour in the yeast mixture along with olive oil.
3. Mix until you form a cohesive dough.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer your dough to a floured surface:
1. Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4: Let It Rise

Place your kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl:
1. Cover with a cloth and set in a warm area.
2. Allow it to rise for about 60–90 minutes until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Prepare Your Fillings

While waiting for the dough:
1. Thinly slice all meats, peppers, and onions.
2. Mix minced garlic with Italian seasoning in a small bowl.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen:
1. Deflate the dough and place it on a floured surface.
2. Roll into a rectangle approximately 30 x 40 centimeters.

Step 7: Add Fillings

Layer your fillings:
1. Evenly arrange sliced turkey pepperoni, turkey slices, and chicken ham over the rolled-out dough while leaving a 2-centimeter border.
2. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over everything.
3. Optionally distribute sliced bell pepper and onion if desired.
4. Scatter garlic-seasoning mixture evenly across.

Step 8: Shape Your Stromboli

Starting from one long edge:
1. Tightly roll up the dough into a log shape.
2. Pinch edges and ends to seal completely.

Step 9: Rest Before Baking

Position your rolled stromboli seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet:
1. Lightly cover it while preheating your oven.

Step 10: Egg Wash

In a small bowl:
1. Beat together an egg with water.
2. Brush this mixture over the surface of your rolled dough.
3. Using a sharp knife, make several shallow diagonal slashes on top to allow steam to escape.

Step 11: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C for about 25–30 minutes or until golden brown throughout.

Step 12: Serve

Remove from oven and let cool for about 5–10 minutes before slicing into portions:
Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping!

How to Serve Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread

Serving Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread is a delightful experience that can be customized in many ways. Whether for a casual gathering or a family dinner, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal and impress your guests.

With Marinara Sauce

• Serve warm slices with marinara sauce for dipping. The tangy flavor complements the savory filling perfectly.

Pair with Salad

• A fresh garden salad adds a crunchy texture and balances the richness of the stromboli. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.

Include Garlic Bread

• Serve alongside garlic bread for an extra layer of flavor. The buttery, garlicky goodness pairs beautifully with the stuffed bread.

Add Cheese Platter

• Create a cheese platter featuring different cheeses such as cheddar and provolone. This will elevate your meal and offer variety.

Offer Pickles and Olives

• A side of pickles or olives provides a briny contrast that cuts through the richness of the stromboli. Choose assorted varieties for more options.

Present in Individual Portions

• For a fun presentation, serve each guest their own slice on a small wooden board or plate. Add garnishes like parsley for color.

How to Perfect Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread

To ensure your Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh meats, vegetables, and cheeses for the best flavor and quality in your stromboli.

• Knead Properly: Kneading the dough until it’s smooth and elastic is crucial. This helps develop gluten, giving your bread structure.

• Don’t Rush Rising: Allow the dough to rise until it has doubled in size. This step is essential for achieving a light and airy texture.

• Preheat Your Oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This ensures even cooking and optimal browning of the crust.

• Brush with Egg Wash: Applying an egg wash before baking gives your stromboli a beautiful golden color and shiny finish.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the baked stromboli to cool slightly before slicing helps maintain its shape and prevents it from becoming soggy.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread

Pairing side dishes with Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Caesar Salad – A classic salad made with romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing adds crispness to your meal.

2. Roasted Vegetables – Season seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers with herbs for a colorful side dish.

3. Coleslaw – Creamy coleslaw provides crunch and tanginess that complements the rich flavors of the stromboli.

4. Antipasto Platter – An assortment of marinated vegetables, cheeses, and olives offers a variety of flavors to enjoy alongside your bread.

5. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs or spices make for hearty finger food that pairs well with marinara dip.

6. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast to the warm stromboli.

7. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and richness to round out your meal.

8. Stuffed Mushrooms – Delicious mushrooms filled with breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese add an elegant touch to any table setting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are key mistakes to avoid:

• Not allowing the dough to rise properly: Skipping the rising time results in dense bread. Always let the dough double in size for the best texture.
• Overfilling the stromboli: Adding too much filling can cause it to burst during baking. Keep fillings within the recommended limits for a perfect roll.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold water or ingredients can hinder yeast activation. Ensure your water is warm and other ingredients are at room temperature.
• Skipping the egg wash: Omitting the egg wash will lead to a pale appearance. Brush the surface before baking for a beautiful golden finish.
• Baking at incorrect temperatures: Baking at too high or too low a temperature affects cooking times and outcomes. Stick to the recommended temperature for even baking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread

• Oven: Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Place bread on a baking sheet and heat for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals of 20–30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat on a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread:

What is Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread?

Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread is a delicious rolled bread filled with meats, cheeses, and vegetables, baked to perfection.

Can I customize the filling of Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite meats, cheeses, or vegetables based on personal preference.

How do I know when my Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread is done?

The bread should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped. An internal temperature of 90°C (195°F) indicates it’s fully cooked.

Can I make Italian Stromboli ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze before baking. Just ensure proper storage methods.

What dips pair well with Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread?

Marinara sauce is classic, but garlic butter or ranch dressing also make great accompaniments!

Final Thoughts

Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite fillings, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!