Ingredients
- 1 (11-ounce) can of thin crust refrigerated pizza dough
- 1/3 cup of pizza sauce, plus extra for dipping
- 1/2 cup of sliced pepperoni (about 2.5 ounces)
- 1 cup of cooked, crumbled ground Italian sausage
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preparation: Begin by preheating your oven to 400° F (200° C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to make cleanup easier.
- Roll Out the Dough: Remove the pizza dough from the can and unroll it onto the lined baking sheet. Use your hands or a rolling pin to stretch the dough out to form a thin, even layer. This creates the base of your Stromboli.
- Add Toppings: Spread the pizza sauce evenly across the surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges to help with sealing the roll. Distribute the sliced pepperoni and crumbled sausage over the sauce. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the meat.
- Roll the Stromboli: Starting from one long side of the dough, carefully roll the dough towards the opposite edge, like rolling up a jelly roll or a burrito. Make sure the filling stays inside and the roll is tight enough to hold its shape but not so tight that it squeezes out the filling.
- Seal and Vent: Once rolled, ensure the seam of the dough is on the bottom to keep it from unrolling during baking. Gently shift the roll so it’s centered on the parchment paper. Use a sharp knife to cut several diagonal slits on top of the Stromboli. These slits act as vents that allow steam to escape, preventing the dough from becoming soggy.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the crust is a deep golden brown and the cheese inside is bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the Stromboli from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the cheese to set slightly, making the Stromboli easier to cut. Serve the slices warm, with extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping.
Tips
- Variations: Feel free to add vegetables like sliced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
- Cheese Options: Besides mozzarella, consider mixing in some provolone or Parmesan for a richer cheese flavor.
This recipe provides a delicious, homemade Italian Stromboli that’s perfect for a meal or a hearty snack. Enjoy your cooking!
