Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli

This hearty Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli transforms the classic sandwich into a crowd-pleasing rolled masterpiece. The combination of seasoned ground beef, peppers, and melty cheese wrapped in golden pizza dough creates a meal that's both impressive and comforting.

I first made this stromboli when hosting friends for a football Sunday, and it disappeared within minutes. The combination of that golden crust with the savory filling has made it a requested favorite at every gathering since.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: creates the hearty base of the filling and provides satisfying protein
• Onion and green bell pepper: add classic Philly cheesesteak flavors and a touch of sweetness
• Garlic cloves: bring essential aromatic depth that elevates the entire dish
• Italian seasoning: transforms simple ingredients into something special with minimal effort
• Refrigerated pizza dough: saves tremendous time without sacrificing texture
• Mozzarella cheese: provides that essential gooey stretch that makes each bite memorable
• Parmesan peppercorn dressing: adds unexpected tang and creaminess both inside and as a dipping sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Filling:

Cook the ground beef, onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic in a large skillet over medium heat. Be patient and break the beef into small crumbles as it browns. This mixture forms the flavor foundation of your stromboli, so take time to develop these flavors. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat and return to the skillet. Season with Italian herbs, salt and pepper to create that classic cheesesteak taste profile.

Assemble the Stromboli:

Unroll your refrigerated pizza dough onto a greased baking sheet and gently stretch it into a large rectangle. This is where patience pays off. Work slowly to avoid tears, creating an even thickness throughout. Sprinkle one cup of cheese directly onto the dough, creating an insulating layer that helps prevent sogginess. Spread your seasoned beef mixture evenly across the dough, remembering to leave that crucial one inch border on all sides for proper sealing. Add another generous cup of cheese over the meat and drizzle with peppercorn dressing for added flavor and moisture.

Roll and Prepare:

Starting at one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a log shape, tucking in the filling as you go. Pinch the seam and ends firmly to create a proper seal that prevents filling from escaping during baking. Position the roll seam side down on your baking sheet for the cleanest presentation. Cut small slits about an inch apart along the top of your stromboli. These slits allow steam to escape, preventing the dough from becoming soggy inside while creating a beautiful presentation.

Bake to Golden Perfection:

Bake in your preheated oven until the stromboli achieves a deep golden brown color. This typically takes between twenty to twenty five minutes but trust your eyes over the timer. The crust should look crisp and thoroughly baked. Allow the finished stromboli to rest for a full ten minutes before slicing. This critical resting period allows the fillings to set, ensuring clean slices rather than a messy interior. Serve with additional dressing on the side for dipping.

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The parmesan peppercorn dressing is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered its magic by accident when I ran out of my usual marinara, and now I deliberately choose it for the tangy complexity it brings to each bite. My teenage son actually requests this stromboli specifically for his birthday dinner every year.

Make Ahead Options

This stromboli can be completely assembled up to 24 hours before baking. Simply prepare through the rolling step, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from refrigerator, cut the slits, and add about 5 extra minutes to the baking time to account for the chilled dough. This makes it perfect for entertaining when you want to prepare food in advance.

Easy Variations

While traditional Philly cheesesteak flavors are incredible, this stromboli template welcomes creative variations. Try substituting Italian sausage for the ground beef and adding mushrooms for an Italian twist. For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and yellow squash. Pizza lovers might enjoy pepperoni, ham and mozzarella with a side of marinara instead of the peppercorn dressing. The technique remains the same regardless of which filling combination you choose.

Serving Suggestions

Slice this stromboli into generous portions and serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon for a complete meal. For entertaining, cut into thinner slices and arrange on a platter for an impressive appetizer. The stromboli maintains its heat well, making it ideal for buffet style service at gatherings. Consider offering multiple dipping options including the parmesan peppercorn dressing, marinara sauce, and perhaps a spicy aioli to please different preferences.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of meat for the filling?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even thinly sliced steak for a different twist.

→ What other cheeses work well in this dish?

Provolone, cheddar, or Monterey Jack are great alternatives to mozzarella for a different cheese profile.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the stromboli, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it when ready to serve for best results.

→ What can I serve alongside this stromboli?

Pair it with a fresh side salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple marinara dipping sauce for a complete meal.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, wrap the cooled stromboli slices in foil and freeze. Reheat in an oven for a crispy texture.