Italian Stromboli Stuffed Bread

I first baked Stromboli after a friend raved about it at her potluck. The mix of melty cheese and meats wrapped in homemade bread instantly made this one of our most-requested foods for holidays and birthdays.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: provides the essential structure for a chewy yet tender crust. Choose unbleached for best results.
• Active dry yeast: makes the dough rise and gives great flavor. Always check the expiration date for best activity.
• Warm water: activates the yeast gently without killing it. Use water that feels just warm to the touch.
• Olive oil: enriches the dough and delivers a subtle fruity aroma. Use extra-virgin if possible for top flavor.
• Sugar: feeds the yeast and helps brown the crust for an appetizing look.
• Salt: adds flavor and helps control the yeast action. Fine sea salt dissolves well in dough.
• Sliced pepperoni: brings classic spicy notes. Pick one with a hint of smokiness for more depth.
• Sliced salami: especially the Genoa variety lends a robust savory edge with a touch of garlic.
• Sliced ham or prosciutto: adds a softer meatiness. Thin prosciutto makes it extra special and silky.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: is the creamy melter that unites all the fillings. Use whole-milk mozzarella for the best stretch.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: provides an irresistible nutty kick. Freshly grated delivers the most flavor.
• Green bell pepper (optional): for sweet crunch and color pop. Choose one with shiny skin for freshness.
• Red onion (optional): offers a mild sharp contrast and beautiful color. The thinner the slice the better.
• Garlic: infuses the loaf with robust aroma. Use fresh cloves for true Italian flavor.
• Italian seasoning or a blend of dried oregano, basil, and thyme: gives the Stromboli truly Mediterranean character.
• Egg: gives the crust its shiny bakery finish. Look for pasture-raised eggs for a great golden color.
• Marinara sauce (on the side): is a must for dipping. Pick a rich hearty jarred sauce or simmer your own if you have time.

Instructions

Make the Dough:

Mix the active dry yeast and sugar into the warm water in a small bowl. Let stand for several minutes until frothy as this ensures the yeast is alive.

Prepare the Flour Mixture:

Combine the flour and salt in a large bowl. Pour the foamy yeast mixture and olive oil into the dry mixture then stir with a sturdy spoon until a ragged dough forms.

Knead the Dough:

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured countertop. Using the heels of your hands knead for about 8 minutes. The dough should be smooth stretchy and not sticky. This step develops good gluten for that perfect chewy crust.

Let the Dough Rise:

Place the kneaded dough into a bowl coated with a drizzle of oil. Cover the bowl with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until the dough has doubled in size. This gives your crust its signature light bite.

Get the Fillings Ready:

While the dough rises slice all your meats and vegetables thin. Combine minced garlic and Italian seasoning in a small bowl so it is ready to sprinkle later.

Roll and Fill the Dough:

Gently punch down the risen dough to release air. On a floured surface roll the dough into a large rectangle about the size of a standard baking tray. Arrange the sliced meats in a single even layer over the dough leaving at least a one-inch border all around.

Top with Cheese and Vegetables:

Scatter the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly across the meats. Add bell pepper and onion slices for extra sweetness and color. Sprinkle the garlic and herb mixture over the entire filling ensuring it is evenly distributed.

Shape and Seal:

Carefully start from one long edge and roll the dough over the filling into a log shape. Pinch the edges tightly to ensure nothing leaks out as it bakes. Carefully transfer the Stromboli seam-side down to a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Egg Wash and Vent:

Whisk the egg with a splash of water until smooth. Brush the entire surface of the dough with the egg wash for shine. Use a sharp knife to make three to five diagonal slashes to let steam escape during baking.

Bake:

Place the tray in a hot oven at four hundred degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for about twenty five to thirty minutes watching for a deep golden crust and bubbling cheese at the seams.

Let Rest and Serve:

Remove the baked Stromboli and let rest for at least five minutes before slicing thickly. This keeps the filling together. Serve with generous bowls of warm marinara sauce for dipping.