Quick & Easy Stromboli Dinner Idea

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to please the whole family, look no further than this quick and easy Stromboli recipe. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

What Is Stromboli?

Stromboli is a rolled Italian-American dish that’s similar to a calzone but shaped more like a loaf or log. It’s typically made with pizza dough and stuffed with a combination of meats, cheeses, and sometimes vegetables. Once rolled up and baked, the result is a golden, crispy crust with a warm, cheesy filling that slices beautifully for serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep – Uses store-bought pizza dough to save time.
• Customizable – Fill it with whatever meats, cheeses, or veggies you have on hand.
• Kid-Friendly – Even picky eaters tend to love it.
• Great for Leftovers – Tastes just as good the next day, hot or cold.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for a classic version:

• 1 pound store-bought pizza dough
• 1/2 cup marinara or pizza sauce (plus extra for dipping)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni or cooked Italian sausage
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Optional Add-ins: sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, spinach, or olives.

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the dough into a rectangle about 10×14 inches.
3. Spread sauce over the dough, leaving about an inch border around the edges.
4. Layer the cheese and toppings evenly over the sauce.
5. Roll it up lengthwise like a jelly roll, tucking in the ends as you go. Place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
6. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with Parmesan and Italian seasoning.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve with extra marinara sauce on the side.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overfill the Stromboli or it may burst while baking.
• Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing to prevent the cheese from oozing out.
• For a crispier crust, you can bake it on a pizza stone or preheated baking sheet.

Make It Your Own

This recipe is a great base for creativity. Try a vegetarian version with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and ricotta, or a spicy version with jalapeños and hot Italian sausage. You can even go breakfast-style with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheddar.

Final Thoughts

This quick and easy Stromboli is perfect for nights when you want something warm, cheesy, and comforting without too much fuss. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels special but is easy enough for a beginner cook. Keep the ingredients on hand, and you’ll always have a reliable, delicious dinner idea ready to go.