Stromboli

Step-by-step

My Go-To Weeknight Dinner: A Simple Stromboli Recipe

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Between school pick-ups, after-school activities, and the never-ending cycle of laundry and household chores, the idea of spending hours in the kitchen often feels overwhelming. That's why I rely on quick, easy, and incredibly tasty recipes like this stromboli. It's a lifesaver on those nights when I need something hearty and flavorful without the fuss.

The beauty of this stromboli recipe lies in its versatility and simplicity. You can easily customize it to fit your family's preferences and what you have on hand. I often use leftover cooked chicken or sausage, adding extra vegetables like bell peppers or onions for a boost of nutrients. Sometimes, I'll even throw in some spinach for a hidden dose of greens. The possibilities are endless!

What I love most about this recipe is how it allows me to involve my kids in the cooking process. They love helping to spread the sauce, sprinkle the cheese, and even roll up the dough (with a little supervision, of course!). It's a fun way to spend some quality time together while getting a delicious meal on the table. And let's be honest, anything that minimizes kitchen chaos and maximizes family time is a winner in my book.

The best part? This stromboli is just as satisfying cold as it is warm, making it perfect for lunch the next day. It's a versatile dish that works equally well for a casual weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend gathering. So, if you're looking for a delicious, easy, and family-friendly recipe that won't break the bank or steal your precious time, give this stromboli a try. You won't be disappointed.

Ingredients I Use:

I typically use store-bought pizza dough to save time, but homemade works just as well if you have the extra time. The key to this recipe is simple, quality ingredients.

• Pizza dough: I usually grab a pre-made one from the store – it saves so much time!
• Pizza sauce: Choose your favorite. I like a classic marinara, but you could experiment with pesto or even a creamy alfredo sauce.
• Cheese: Mozzarella is a classic, but you can mix it up with provolone, parmesan, or even some shredded cheddar for added flavor.
• Meats: Salami, ham, pepperoni – really anything you like works here. Leftover cooked chicken or sausage is also a great option!
• Veggies: Sometimes I toss in some sliced bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Egg wash: This helps the stromboli brown beautifully during baking. A simple beaten egg does the trick.
• Parsley and parmesan (optional): Adds a burst of fresh flavor. I usually only add this if I’m feeling fancy.

Tips and Tricks for Success:

• Don't overfill: Too much filling can make the stromboli difficult to roll and might cause it to burst during baking.
• Seal the edges well: Make sure to properly seal the edges of the dough to prevent filling from leaking out.
• Score the top: Scoring the top of the stromboli allows steam to escape, preventing it from becoming soggy.
• Don’t rush the baking: Let the stromboli bake until it's golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. It needs time to cook through.
• Rest before slicing: Letting the stromboli cool for a few minutes before slicing ensures that it holds its shape nicely.

This stromboli recipe is a go-to for me – quick, easy, delicious and adaptable. I hope you enjoy it as much as my family does!