Save There's something undeniably satisfying about biting into a warm, freshly baked stromboli with its golden, crispy exterior giving way to layers of savory fillings and melted cheese. This high-protein pepperoni stromboli elevates the classic Italian-American favorite by incorporating seasoned ground beef alongside traditional pepperoni for a hearty meal that delivers on both flavor and nutrition.
Save This stromboli brings together the convenience of store-bought pizza dough with a protein-rich filling of seasoned ground beef and pepperoni. The combination creates a filling meal that's perfect for busy weeknights, game day gatherings, or anytime you need a satisfying dish that will please everyone at the table.
- Dough: 1 pound (450 g) refrigerated pizza dough
- Filling: 1/2 pound (225 g) lean ground beef, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 cup (120 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup (60 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 3 ounces (85 g) sliced pepperoni, 1/4 cup (60 ml) pizza sauce (plus extra for serving), 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- For Brushing: 1 egg, beaten, 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Prepare the oven
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cook the beef mixture
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with salt, pepper, oregano, and garlic powder until fully browned. Drain excess fat and let cool slightly.
- Roll out the dough
- On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle (about 12x16 inches/30x40 cm).
- Add sauce
- Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border along the edges.
- Layer the fillings
- Evenly layer the cooked beef, mozzarella, Parmesan, and pepperoni over the sauce.
- Roll and seal
- Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log, pinching the seam and ends to seal.
- Position for baking
- Transfer the stromboli to the prepared baking sheet, seam side down.
- Prepare surface
- Brush the top with beaten egg and drizzle with olive oil for shine and crispness.
- Add vents
- Using a sharp knife, make several diagonal slits on top to vent steam.
- Bake
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Finish and serve
- Cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley if desired. Serve warm with extra pizza sauce for dipping.
For the most flavorful stromboli, don't rush the ground beef cooking process. Take time to properly brown the meat—this develops deeper flavors that make the filling exceptional. When rolling the stromboli, keep it tight but not so tight that fillings squeeze out. The resting period after baking is crucial; it allows the melted cheese to set slightly, making for cleaner slices.
This stromboli recipe is incredibly adaptable. For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Vegetable lovers can add a layer of sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. For a spicier kick, incorporate hot Italian sausage or red pepper flakes into the ground beef mixture. Those with dietary restrictions can use gluten-free pizza dough and dairy-free cheese alternatives to accommodate their needs.
Serve this protein-packed stromboli as a hearty main dish alongside a fresh green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette. For a more casual setting, cut the stromboli into smaller pieces as an appetizer with various dipping sauces like ranch, garlic aioli, or additional warm marinara sauce. Leftovers make excellent next-day lunches and can be enjoyed cold or quickly reheated in an oven to restore the crust's crispness.
Save With its protein-rich filling and versatile nature, this Baked High-Protein Pepperoni Stromboli represents comfort food at its finest. Whether you're feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week ahead, or impressing guests at your next gathering, this stromboli delivers restaurant-quality results with surprisingly minimal effort. The combination of savory beef, spicy pepperoni, and melty cheese all wrapped in a golden crust is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I prevent the stromboli from leaking during baking?
Ensure the dough is rolled tightly and sealed well along the seams and edges. Brushing with egg wash helps to secure the crust and lock in the filling.
- → Can I substitute the ground beef with other proteins?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter alternative while maintaining protein content and texture.
- → What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) to preserve crispness or microwave briefly for convenience.
- → How long should the stromboli rest after baking?
Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes off heat to allow the filling to set, making slicing cleaner and preventing fillings from spilling out.
- → Are there any recommended flavor additions?
Sautéed bell peppers or onions add depth and extra flavor to the filling without overpowering the core ingredients.