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Delicious Puff Pastry Stromboli: Meat Lovers & Vegetarian Recipes for Every Occasion

Looking for the perfect crowd-pleasing dish that’s both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than Stromboli! Whether you’re hosting a lively game day gathering, planning a casual family dinner, or searching for an impressive appetizer, these homemade Stromboli recipes crafted with flaky puff pastry are sure to be a hit. We’ll explore both a hearty meat lover’s version and a vibrant vegetarian option, ensuring there’s a delicious roll for everyone at your table.

This culinary journey marks a special milestone, and I’m thrilled to share one of my all-time favorite versatile recipes with you. Get ready to transform simple ingredients into a golden, crispy, and flavor-packed Stromboli that will have everyone asking for more!

What Exactly is Stromboli? Unpacking this Italian-American Delight

Stromboli is a classic Italian-American dish, often described as a rolled-up pizza or a savory pastry. It’s typically prepared by taking pizza dough or, in our case, elegant puff pastry, and filling it with a delightful combination of meats, cheeses, and sometimes vegetables. The dough is then rolled tightly, sealed, and baked until it achieves a beautiful golden-brown crust and a warm, bubbly interior. Once baked, it’s usually sliced into individual portions, revealing its colorful, layered fillings.

While often confused with its cousin, the calzone, there’s a distinct difference. A calzone is traditionally folded into a half-moon shape, usually sealed at the edges, and typically served as an individual, uncut pocket. Stromboli, on the other hand, is rolled up like a jelly roll or a pinwheel, creating a long, cylindrical shape that is then sliced after baking. This rolling technique allows for a more even distribution of fillings and a stunning presentation when served. Its hearty nature and customizable fillings make it a fantastic choice for any meal or snack occasion.

Why Choose Puff Pastry for Your Homemade Stromboli?

While traditional Stromboli often uses pizza dough, opting for puff pastry elevates this dish to a new level of culinary excellence. Puff pastry offers an incredibly flaky, buttery, and light texture that contrasts beautifully with the rich, savory fillings. It’s also a fantastic shortcut, as frozen puff pastry sheets are readily available and incredibly easy to work with. This choice makes preparing a delicious homemade Stromboli accessible even for novice bakers, delivering impressive results with minimal effort. The crisp layers of puff pastry create an irresistible crust that’s far from the denser texture of conventional pizza dough, providing a gourmet touch to your casual meal.

Essential Ingredients for Your Stromboli Creations

Crafting the perfect Stromboli starts with quality ingredients. For our puff pastry versions, the foundation is, of course, frozen puff pastry sheets. Most boxes contain two sheets, and you’ll typically use one sheet per Stromboli roll. An egg wash is also crucial for achieving that desirable golden, glossy finish on the pastry. Beyond these staples, your ingredient list will diverge depending on whether you’re whipping up a savory meat lover’s delight or a fresh, vibrant vegetarian masterpiece.

Hearty Meat Lover’s Puff Pastry Stromboli Ingredients

For those who savor a robust, meaty flavor, this version is packed with classic deli favorites and melting cheese. The combination offers a satisfying richness perfect for any hungry crowd.

1 sheet frozen puff pastry (½ of a 17.3 oz package, thawed)
1 large egg
1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
¼ lb sliced cooked deli ham (or your preferred cured meat like turkey or roast beef)
¼ lb sliced deli salami (pepperoni, prosciutto, or capicola also work wonderfully)
4 oz sliced cheese (Provolone, Swiss, or cheddar are excellent choices)

Delightful Vegetarian Puff Pastry Stromboli Ingredients

Embrace the bounty of fresh produce with this equally delicious vegetarian option. You can customize the vegetables to your liking, but this combination offers a fantastic balance of flavors and textures.

1 sheet frozen puff pastry (½ of a 17.3 oz package, thawed)
1 large egg
1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
4 oz whipped cream cheese (consider a chive or herb-flavored variety for extra depth)
1 small tomato, sliced thinly
2 large kale leaves
1 teaspoon olive oil (for massaging kale)
4 oz shredded Italian cheese blend (mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan mix)
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional, for extra flavor in the cream cheese)

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting the Perfect Meat Lover’s Stromboli

Making a homemade Stromboli, especially with the ease of puff pastry, is simpler than you might think! This method ensures a beautiful, golden crust and a perfectly melted, savory filling. I’ve been refining this recipe over many years, starting from a basic ham and cheddar concept, and now enjoy experimenting with various deli meats and cheeses to create diverse flavor profiles. My family’s favorite, “The Carnivore,” always includes salami and provolone cheese.

Prepare Your Workspace and Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly flour a clean surface or use parchment paper. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water until thoroughly combined to create your egg wash. This will give your Stromboli a beautiful golden crust.
Roll Out the Puff Pastry: Carefully unfold one sheet of thawed puff pastry onto your prepared surface. Using a rolling pin, gently roll it into a neat rectangular shape, aiming for approximately 16×12 inches. This provides a good surface area for layering your fillings.
Layer the Meats and Cheeses: Position the pastry with the short side facing you. Arrange your sliced deli meats (ham and salami, or your chosen combination) over the bottom half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border along the edges. This border is crucial for sealing the Stromboli later. Next, evenly layer your sliced cheese over the deli meats.

Salami and cheese layered on puff pastry for Stromboli

Rolling up the puff pastry filled with meat and cheese

Roll Up the Stromboli: Starting from the short side closest to you, carefully and tightly roll up the pastry like a jelly roll. Ensure the roll is firm to keep the fillings encased.

Seal the Ends and Place on Baking Sheet: Once rolled, place the Stromboli seam-side down onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Gently tuck the ends underneath the roll to seal in the fillings and prevent any cheese from escaping during baking.

Tucked and sealed end of a rolled puff pastry Stromboli

Brushing egg wash over the puff pastry Stromboli

Apply Egg Wash and Bake: Generously brush the entire surface of the rolled Stromboli with the prepared egg wash. This step is key for a beautiful golden, crispy crust. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed, deeply golden brown, and the filling is heated through and bubbly.

Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the Stromboli from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This cooling period is essential for the cheese to set and for the Stromboli to maintain its shape when cut. Slice into 1-2 inch thick pieces and serve warm.

Freshly baked puff pastry Stromboli on a baking sheet

Crafting the Perfect Vegetarian Stromboli with Puff Pastry

For those preferring a meat-free option, or simply looking for a fresh, cheesy delight, this Vegetarian Puff Pastry Stromboli is an absolute winner. The possibilities for vegetable combinations are endless, allowing for endless creativity. My personal secret to a truly decadent vegetarian Stromboli is layering plenty of cheese. I start with a creamy whipped cream cheese base, add a medley of fresh vegetables, and finish with another generous layer of shredded cheese for maximum flavor and texture.

Prepare Your Oven and Egg Wash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a small bowl, whisk one egg with one tablespoon of water until smooth to create your egg wash.
Prepare the Tomatoes: Slice your tomato thinly. Lay the slices in a single layer on paper towels and sprinkle lightly with salt. The salt will help draw out excess moisture, preventing a soggy Stromboli. Let them sit while you prepare other ingredients, then gently blot them dry before use.
Prepare the Kale: Tear the leafy parts of the kale from their tough stems. Place the kale pieces into a medium bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and “massage” them for 3-5 minutes. This process softens the kale significantly, reduces its volume, and makes it more tender and flavorful.
Roll Out the Puff Pastry: Unfold one sheet of thawed puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface or parchment paper. Roll it out to approximately a 16×12 inch rectangle.

Assemble the Vegetarian Filling: With the short side of the pastry facing you, spread the whipped cream cheese evenly over the bottom half, leaving a 1-inch border. If desired, you can mix a little Italian seasoning into the cream cheese for an extra flavor boost. Next, layer the massaged kale uniformly, followed by the blotted tomato slices. Finally, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Italian cheese over the vegetables.

Assembling vegetarian Stromboli with cream cheese, kale, and tomatoes

Adding a layer of cheese to the vegetarian Stromboli fillings

Roll, Seal, Brush, and Bake: Carefully roll up the pastry from the short end, just like a jelly roll. Place the rolled Stromboli seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Tuck the ends underneath to seal the fillings. Brush the entire surface with the prepared egg wash. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.

The beauty of homemade Stromboli is that you can truly cater to everyone’s tastes and dietary preferences. These recipes offer a fantastic foundation for experimentation. Feel free to swap out deli meats for other favorites, or try different vegetable combinations like spinach and feta, roasted bell peppers, or sautéed mushrooms. The possibilities are endless!

Slices of puff pastry Stromboli arranged on a white plate

Pin image for meat lovers Stromboli recipe

Enjoy your freshly baked Puff Pastry Stromboli with a warm bowl of Cheesy Potato Soup for a comforting meal!

From game day snacks to elegant appetizers, Stromboli is always a versatile and crowd-pleasing choice!

Pin image for vegetarian Stromboli recipe

Serving Your Perfect Stromboli Roll: Tips and Pairings

Once your Stromboli emerges from the oven, radiating a delicious aroma and a beautiful golden crust, the anticipation builds! It’s essential to let it cool for a few minutes before slicing – typically 10 to 15 minutes. This crucial resting period allows the melted cheeses and fillings to set, ensuring clean, intact slices rather than a messy, crumbling affair. Once slightly cooled, slice the roll into generous 1- to 2-inch pieces. The presentation of the swirled layers is always a delight!

Stromboli is incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways:

As a Main Dish: Pair larger slices with a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette for a satisfying and complete meal.
As an Appetizer or Party Snack: Cut smaller, bite-sized slices and arrange them on a platter. This is my go-to for gatherings, as they are easy to pick up and enjoy.
With Dipping Sauces: A small bowl of warm marinara sauce on the side is a classic accompaniment, adding a touch of tangy sweetness that complements the savory fillings beautifully. You could also experiment with pesto, ranch, or a spicy aioli.
For Brunch: Imagine a breakfast Stromboli with scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheddar cheese!

Storage and Reheating: Keeping Your Stromboli Fresh

While Puff Pastry Stromboli is undoubtedly at its peak freshness when served warm straight from the oven, leftovers are still wonderfully delicious! Proper storage is key to maintaining its quality for future enjoyment.

How to Store Leftover Stromboli

First, ensure the Stromboli has cooled completely to room temperature. This prevents condensation from forming and making the pastry soggy. Once cool, wrap individual slices tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. Stored this way, your Stromboli will remain fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, Stromboli freezes beautifully. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw frozen slices overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best results, or reheat directly from frozen using the oven method.

Best Ways to Reheat Stromboli for Optimal Crispness

To revive that delightful crispness of the puff pastry, reheating in an oven or air fryer is highly recommended. The microwave, while quick, tends to soften the pastry, diminishing its flaky charm.

Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the Stromboli slices directly on a baking sheet. Reheat for 10-15 minutes, or until the pastry is crisp and the filling is heated through.
Air Fryer Method: For an even quicker and crispier result, use an air fryer. Preheat to 325°F (160°C) and cook for about 5-7 minutes, checking periodically to prevent burning.
Microwave Method (in a pinch): If time is of the essence, you can microwave slices for 30-60 seconds, or until warm. Be aware that the pastry will lose some of its crispiness.

Puff Pastry Stromboli FAQs: Your Questions Answered

What’s the difference between a calzone and a Stromboli?

While both are delicious Italian-American baked dough creations filled with savory ingredients, their main distinction lies in their shape and how they’re sealed. A calzone is a folded pizza pocket, typically sealed along the edges like a turnover, and usually not sliced until after baking. A Stromboli, however, is rolled up like a jelly roll or pinwheel, creating a cylindrical shape that is then sliced into individual servings after it’s baked. This rolling method gives Stromboli its distinctive layered appearance.

Is Stromboli dough the same as pizza dough?

Traditionally, Stromboli is made with pizza dough, giving it a classic, slightly chewy bread-like texture. However, using puff pastry, as we do in these recipes, offers a delightful twist. Puff pastry yields a much flakier, lighter, and more buttery crust, providing a sophisticated texture that many find irresistible and a fantastic contrast to the rich fillings.

Why is my Stromboli soggy?

Sogginess in Stromboli often stems from too much moisture in the filling ingredients. To prevent this, ensure that any wet ingredients, especially vegetables like tomatoes or spinach, are thoroughly patted dry before layering them onto the dough. For meats, choose drier varieties or pat off any excess moisture. Additionally, avoid overfilling the pastry; while tempting, too many fillings can trap steam and moisture, leading to a less crisp crust. Less is often more when it comes to keeping that perfect flaky texture.

Can I prepare Stromboli ahead of time?

Yes, you can! You can assemble the Stromboli (with all fillings and rolled up) and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just before baking, apply the egg wash. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead option for busy days or entertaining.

What kind of cheeses work best in Stromboli?

For a classic flavor, mozzarella and provolone are excellent choices as they melt beautifully and offer a mild, creamy taste. However, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor, Monterey Jack for extra meltiness, or a blend of Italian cheeses like Fontina or Asiago for a more complex profile. The key is to use cheeses that melt well.

📖 Recipe: Meat Lover’s Puff Pastry Stromboli

Puff pastry Stromboli is delicious for game day or any day!

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 25 mins

Cooling Time: 10 mins

Total Time: 50 mins

Course: Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Servings: 6

Calories: 434 kcal

Author: Sula

Ingredients

1 sheet Frozen Puff Pastry (½ of a 17.3 oz package, thawed)
1 egg
1 tablespoon water
¼ lb sliced cooked deli ham (or meat of choice)
¼ lb sliced deli salami (or meat of choice)
4 oz cheese, sliced

Instructions

Heat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a small bowl or cup, whisk the egg and water together until smooth.
Unfold the pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. Roll into a rectangle, approximately 16×12 inches.
With the short side facing you, layer the deli meat on the bottom half of the pastry to within about 1 inch of the edge. Layer the cheese over the top.
Starting at the short side, roll up like a jelly roll. Place roll seam side down onto a baking sheet. Tuck under the ends to seal. Brush the surface with egg mixture.
Bake for 25 minutes or until the Stromboli is golden brown.
Remove from baking sheet and let cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting.

Video

Nutrition

Nutrition values are estimates only, using online calculators. Please verify using your own data.

📖 Recipe: Vegetarian Puff Pastry Stromboli

stromboli in puff pastry on a white plate

Make your vegetarian Stromboli with puff pastry – easy and delicious!