Weeknight Stromboli Recipe with Deli Meats and Marinara Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying dinner that comes together quickly, this Weeknight Stromboli Recipe with Deli Meats and Marinara is an absolute winner. Packed with layers of savory deli ham, Genoa salami, pepperoni, and ooey-gooey cheeses, all wrapped in tender pizza dough and baked golden, this stromboli is pure comfort food magic. The zingy marinara sauce inside and on the side perfectly complements each bite, making it a crowd-pleaser whether for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or a special weeknight treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe is simple yet essential, working together to build mouthwatering flavors, textures, and colors that make this stromboli irresistible. From the soft dough providing the perfect chew to the Italian seasoning enhancing the deli meats’ natural zest, these components are your building blocks for success.

• 1 lb refrigerated pizza dough: The base of your stromboli, offering structure and a light, fluffy bite.
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce: Adds tangy, herby moisture that keeps every slice juicy and flavorful.
• 6 slices deli ham: Brings a delicate smokiness and tender texture.
• 6 slices Genoa salami: Adds a rich spice and subtle fat for depth.
• 6 slices pepperoni: Provides that classic zesty kick with a hint of grease to balance flavors.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to glue the fillings together with creamy goodness.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings sharp, nutty contrasts that elevate every bite.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb blend to tie all savory flavors in harmony.
• 1 egg (beaten): Used as an egg wash for a shiny, golden crust.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a light richness and helps crisp the dough’s exterior.

How to Make Weeknight Stromboli Recipe with Deli Meats and Marinara

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures your stromboli will bake evenly and not stick, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

Lightly flour your surface and roll the refrigerated pizza dough into a rectangle roughly 10 by 14 inches. The dough should be thin but sturdy enough to hold the filling. If you’re feeling adventurous, sourdough dough can add a delightful tangy twist to this recipe.

Step 3: Spread the Sauce

Spread half a cup of marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving approximately a 1-inch border on all sides. This open edge will make sealing easier and prevent the sauce from bubbling out during baking.

Step 4: Layer the Deli Meats

Begin layering the deli ham, salami, and pepperoni in that order directly on top of the marinara. Slightly overlap the slices to create an even filling that bursts with flavor from every bite. For a fun twist, sautéed beef with peppers and onions can turn it into a cheesesteak-style stromboli.

Step 5: Add the Cheeses

Generously sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the meats. This cheesy layer will melt enticingly, binding the ingredients while delivering the classic creamy texture that stromboli lovers adore. If you want a breakfast vibe, you can swap these for scrambled eggs and sausage with cheddar.

Step 6: Season and Customize

Sprinkle a teaspoon of Italian seasoning over everything to lift the flavors. Now is the perfect time to add any optional extras like sautéed mushrooms, olives, or even red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. The beauty of this Weeknight Stromboli Recipe with Deli Meats and Marinara is how customizable it is to your taste.

Step 7: Fold and Seal the Dough

Carefully fold one long edge of the dough over the filling, then fold the opposite edge so they overlap. Pinch the seams and ends tightly to seal in all that goodness. This sealing step is key to keeping the flavors inside and everything neat for baking.

Step 8: Brush with Egg Wash and Prepare for Baking

Place your stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the top with the beaten egg for a beautifully glossy, golden crust. Drizzle a little olive oil on top and cut 3 to 4 small slits across the surface to release steam as it bakes.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake for about 25 minutes until the crust is perfectly golden brown and crispy. If you’re using a pizza stone, keep an eye after 20 minutes because it can cook faster. The smell wafting through your kitchen will tell you it’s almost time to dig in!

Step 10: Rest and Slice

Once out of the oven, let your stromboli rest for 5 minutes. This pause lets the cheese settle slightly, making slicing cleaner and preventing all that melty goodness from spilling out. Slice into thick, hearty pieces and serve warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping.

How to Serve Weeknight Stromboli Recipe with Deli Meats and Marinara

Garnishes

Serve your stromboli with a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness that contrasts the savory, melted interior. A light dusting of extra Parmesan on top right before serving adds an elegant touch, too.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even a tangy coleslaw to balance the richness of the cheese and meat. For a cozy meal, warm garlic bread or a bowl of hearty soup on the side complements the flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your stromboli into fun finger food by slicing it thin for party platters, or serve it with small ramekins of marinara and pesto for dipping variety. You can also cut it into cubes and skewer them for an easy appetizer that everyone will reach for.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover stromboli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it sealed helps maintain the dough’s softness and prevents it from drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze your baked stromboli wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. For best results, slice before freezing and separate slices with parchment paper so you can thaw only what you need.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to bring back that crispy crust and melty cheese deliciousness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make the dough soggy.

FAQs

Can I make this stromboli vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the deli meats and fill your stromboli with roasted vegetables, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, artichoke hearts, and plenty of cheese for a hearty vegetarian version.

What type of cheese works best if I don’t have mozzarella?

Provolone or a mild cheddar can substitute nicely for mozzarella, melting well and offering a slightly different but delicious flavor profile.

Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of refrigerated dough?

Yes, homemade pizza dough works wonderfully and allows you to tailor the texture and flavor, such as using sourdough for an extra tangy bite that complements the savory fillings.

How do I prevent the stromboli from getting soggy?

Make sure to leave a border around the dough edge when spreading sauce and don’t overload with wet ingredients. Using a few small slits on top also lets steam escape to keep the crust crisp.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly before baking?

You can assemble the stromboli, wrap it tightly, and freeze it before baking. When ready to cook, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Final Thoughts

This Weeknight Stromboli Recipe with Deli Meats and Marinara is truly one of those recipes you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for busy nights when you crave something comforting and delicious. It’s easy to customize, quick to prepare, and always a hit around the table. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the joy of this warm, cheesy, meaty delight with your loved ones!

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