Mozzarella Cheese Steak Stromboli is a delectable Italian-inspired dish that combines the best of both worlds – the rich, meaty flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak and the irresistible, cheesy goodness of a stromboli. This handheld masterpiece is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a game day gathering, or anytime you crave a satisfying and comforting meal.
Table of Contents
What is Stromboli?
Stromboli is a type of Italian-American rolled or folded pizza that originated in the Philadelphia area. It’s essentially a savory rolled or folded bread dough that’s filled with various ingredients, such as meats, cheeses, and vegetables, and then baked until golden and crispy. The dish is named after the volcanic island of Stromboli, off the northern coast of Sicily, but its origins can be traced back to Italian immigrants in the United States.
Mozzarella Cheese Steak Stromboli: Blending Flavors from Italy and Philadelphia
The Mozzarella Cheese Steak Stromboli takes the classic stromboli concept and infuses it with the beloved flavors of a Philly cheesesteak. By combining thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions and peppers, and a generous helping of melted mozzarella cheese, this dish delivers a delightful fusion of Italian and American culinary traditions.
Ingredients Breakdown: Mozzarella Cheese Steak Stromboli
For the Dough:
- 1 lb store-bought pizza dough (or homemade dough)
- Flour for dusting
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ribeye or sirloin steak (thinly sliced)
- 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For Assembly:
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp water
- Marinara sauce (for dipping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the Mozzarella Cheese Steak Stromboli.
Cook the Steak and Veggies
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced steak, onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Sauté the ingredients until the steak is cooked through and the vegetables are tender, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Prepare the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, ready to be filled and rolled up.
Assemble the Stromboli
Spread the steak and vegetable mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
Roll and Seal
Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, sealing the edges and ends. Transfer the rolled stromboli to the prepared baking sheet, placing it seam-side down.
Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture over the top of the stromboli for a beautiful golden crust.
Bake to Perfection
Place the Mozzarella Cheese Steak Stromboli in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through.
Serve and Enjoy
Let the stromboli cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve it warm, with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy this savory, cheesy delight!
Tips for Making the Perfect Stromboli
Choosing the Right Meat
When it comes to the steak for your Mozzarella Cheese Steak Stromboli, opt for ribeye or sirloin. These cuts are tender, flavorful, and hold up well when sautéed. Be sure to slice the steak thinly to ensure even cooking and easy rolling.
Vegetable Variations
While the classic combination of onions and bell peppers is delicious, you can experiment with other vegetables as well. Try adding mushrooms, spinach, or even roasted red peppers for extra flavor and texture.
Cheese Options
Mozzarella is the star of this dish, but you can also try incorporating other cheese varieties, such as provolone or even a blend of cheeses, to add more depth of flavor.
Dough Techniques
Properly rolling and sealing the dough is key to preventing any leaks or unraveling during baking. Be gentle but firm when rolling the dough into a tight log, and make sure the seams are well-sealed.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with Marinara Sauce
Serving the Mozzarella Cheese Steak Stromboli with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping is a classic and delicious pairing. The tangy, tomato-based sauce complements the savory fillings perfectly.
Accompany with Salads or Garlic Bread
To round out the meal, consider serving the stromboli with a fresh green salad or crisp garlic bread. These sides can help balance the richness of the dish and provide a refreshing contrast.
Presentation for Gatherings
If you’re serving the Mozzarella Cheese Steak Stromboli at a gathering, consider slicing it into smaller pieces for easy sharing. Arrange the slices on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a visually appealing presentation.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Storing the Stromboli
Any leftover Mozzarella Cheese Steak Stromboli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before storing.
Reheating Methods
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can reheat the stromboli in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the crust is crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, but be aware that the crust may not be as crisp.
Creative Leftover Ideas
Don’t let any leftover Mozzarella Cheese Steak Stromboli go to waste. You can slice it and use it as a topping for pizzas, mix it into scrambled eggs, or even chop it up and incorporate it into a hearty pasta dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a stromboli and a calzone?
The main difference between a stromboli and a calzone lies in their shape and filling. A stromboli is typically a rolled or folded pizza dough that is filled and baked, while a calzone is a half-moon-shaped pocket of pizza dough that is filled and then folded over before baking. Calzones also tend to have a thicker, more bread-like dough, while stromboli often use a thinner, more pizza-like dough.
Can I make a Mozzarella Cheese Steak Stromboli ahead of time and reheat it later?
Yes, you can absolutely make the Mozzarella Cheese Steak Stromboli ahead of time and reheat it later. After assembling the stromboli, you can refrigerate it, covered, for up to 3-4 days before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the stromboli as directed in the recipe, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if the stromboli is cold from the refrigerator.
What type of cheese works best in a Cheese Steak Stromboli?
Mozzarella cheese is the classic and most popular choice for a Cheese Steak Stromboli, as it melts beautifully and complements the savory flavors of the steak and vegetables. However, you can also experiment with other cheese varieties, such as provolone, cheddar, or a blend of cheeses, to add more depth of flavor to the dish.
How do I prevent the stromboli crust from getting soggy?
To prevent the crust of your Mozzarella Cheese Steak Stromboli from getting soggy, there are a few tips to keep in mind:
1. Make sure the steak and vegetable filling is not overly moist or wet before assembling the stromboli.
2. Brush the top of the rolled dough with an egg wash, which helps create a crisp, golden crust.
3. Bake the stromboli on a preheated baking sheet or pizza stone to ensure even heat distribution and a crispy bottom crust.
4. Let the stromboli rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow the steam to escape, preventing the crust from becoming soggy.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
- Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese
- High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls
- Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
- Cheesy Taco Sticks
Conclusion
The Mozzarella Cheese Steak Stromboli is a delightful fusion of Italian and American flavors that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With its tender steak, melted cheese, and flaky crust, this dish is a comforting and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any time. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to savor the irresistible goodness of this Mozzarella Cheese Steak Stromboli!
Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!
PrintEnjoy the Irresistible Mozzarella Cheese Steak Stromboli Recipe
Mozzarella Cheese Steak Stromboli is a delectable Italian-inspired dish that combines the best of both worlds – the rich, meaty flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak and the irresistible, cheesy goodness of a stromboli. This handheld masterpiece is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a game day gathering, or anytime you crave a satisfying and comforting meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
- 1 pound store-bought pizza dough
- 1/4 cup flour for dusting
- 1 pound ribeye or sirloin steak, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg for egg wash
- 1 tablespoon water
- Marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced steak, onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Season with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Sauté until the steak is cooked through and the vegetables are tender, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle.
4. Spread the steak and vegetable mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
5. Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, sealing the edges and ends. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet, seam-side down.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture over the top of the stromboli.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through.
8. Let cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
When choosing steak, opt for ribeye or sirloin for tenderness and flavor. Slice thinly for even cooking.
Experiment with vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for variations.
Mozzarella is classic, but consider using provolone or a blend of cheeses for added flavor.
Ensure proper rolling and sealing of dough to prevent leaks during baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Stromboli, Cheesesteak, Italian