Craving something cheesy, garlicky, and utterly irresistible? This Pull-Apart Stromboli is all that and more! With layers of dough, hot capicolla, salami, and provolone, it’s the perfect appetizer for sharing (or not sharing!). Simple to make yet bursting with flavor, this recipe brings together all your favorite Italian deli flavors into one easy-to-eat loaf. Here’s a quick breakdown of the steps, along with some pro tips for getting the perfect pull-apart layers.
How to Make Pull-Apart Stromboli
Prepare the Dough & Garlic Butter
Start by rolling out your pizza dough on a floured surface into an 8x12-inch rectangle. Meanwhile, mix melted butter with garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper for a rich, herby garlic butter.
Add the Fillings
Brush most of the garlic butter over the dough, then sprinkle with parmesan. Layer on the provolone, chopped salami, and capicola for a savory, cheesy filling.
Slice & Stack
Cut the dough into 12 rectangles. Stack the rectangles on top of each other and place them upright in a greased loaf pan, giving them space for a rustic, pull-apart look.
Bake
Brush the top with the remaining garlic butter and parmesan. Bake at 375°F for 30-40 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool briefly, then flip out of the pan, flip it right side up, and serve with marinara for dipping.
FAQ for Pull-Apart Stromboli
Q: Can I make this stromboli ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the dough layers and fillings, then cover and refrigerate the unbaked loaf in the pan for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Q: What other meats can I use if I don’t have capicolla or salami?
A: Feel free to swap in any deli meats you like! Pepperoni, ham, or even mortadella all work well in this recipe. Mix and match to suit your taste.
Q: How do I know if the stromboli is fully baked?
A: The best way to ensure it’s fully baked is to check the internal temperature, which should be around 190°F. This will give you a soft, fully cooked interior. The top should also be golden brown and crisp.
Q: How can I get the cleanest slices when serving?
A: Let the loaf cool for about 5-10 minutes before cutting. Use a serrated knife and make gentle sawing motions for cleaner slices without squeezing the fillings out.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, this stromboli freezes well! Slice and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Q: What’s the best way to serve this pull-apart stromboli?
A: Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping! Garnish with fresh parsley, basil, or extra Parmesan to add some extra flavor and color.
Q: Can I use store-bought dough?
A: Absolutely. Store-bought pizza dough works perfectly and saves time. Just bring it to room temperature so it’s easier to roll out and layer.
Tips & Notes
Let it Cool: Allow the stromboli to cool for about 5 minutes before flipping out of the pan. This helps it hold its shape and makes it easier to handle.
Prevent Overflow: Place a baking sheet on the rack beneath your loaf pan to catch any oils or cheese that might bubble over during baking.
Internal Temperature: For the best texture, aim for an internal temperature of 190°F. This ensures the dough is cooked through without being overdone.
Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions
Meats: Feel free to swap in other deli meats, such as pepperoni or ham, if that’s what you have on hand.
Cheese: While provolone is ideal for its meltability, mozzarella or fontina would also work well.
Herbs: Basil or oregano make great additions to the garlic butter for a more herbaceous flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Pull-Apart Stromboli with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping. Garnish with extra Parmesan, parsley, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you love a little heat.
This Pull-Apart Stromboli is perfect for gatherings, movie nights, or just a fun twist on pizza night! So gather your ingredients, heat up your oven, and get ready to impress your guests with this delicious, cheesy creation. Enjoy!