Blast from the Past: Easy 50s Stromboli Recipe for a Retro Dinner!
Stromboli, a savory, rolled pizza-like creation, isn’t just a delicious meal; it’s a nostalgic trip back to simpler times. While its exact origins are debated, the stromboli we know and love gained immense popularity in the United States during the 1950s. This throwback recipe captures the essence of that era, offering an easy and satisfying way to bring a taste of mid-century charm to your modern table.
This recipe prioritizes simplicity and flavor, using readily available ingredients to create a comforting and crowd-pleasing dish. Forget complicated techniques and fussy preparations; this stromboli is all about ease and enjoyment. So, dust off your vintage apron, turn on some classic tunes, and let’s get rolling!
## Why This 50s Stromboli Recipe Works
* **Simple Ingredients:** This recipe relies on pantry staples and easily accessible ingredients, making it a breeze to whip up any night of the week.
* **Quick Preparation:** Unlike some elaborate bread recipes, this stromboli comes together quickly, perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Customizable:** Feel free to adapt the fillings to your liking. Swap out meats, cheeses, or veggies to create your own signature stromboli.
* **Crowd-Pleasing:** Stromboli is a guaranteed hit with family and friends, perfect for gatherings or casual dinners.
* **Freezable:** Make a batch ahead of time and freeze for a convenient meal option whenever you need it.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
* **1 pound frozen bread dough, thawed:** The cornerstone of our easy stromboli. Look for a good quality frozen dough that rises well.
* **1/2 cup pizza sauce:** Adds that classic Italian flavor. You can use store-bought or homemade.
* **1/2 pound sliced ham:** A classic 50s ingredient. You can also use other deli meats like salami or pepperoni.
* **1/4 pound sliced provolone cheese:** Provides a mild and creamy base. Mozzarella or another Italian cheese works well too.
* **1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese:** Adds a sharp and salty bite.
* **1 tablespoon olive oil:** For brushing the stromboli before baking.
* **1 teaspoon Italian seasoning:** Enhances the overall flavor profile.
* **Optional: 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash):** Gives the stromboli a golden-brown sheen.
* **Optional: Garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes:** To taste, for extra flavor.
## Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Your 50s Stromboli
Follow these detailed instructions to recreate this classic recipe with ease.
**Step 1: Prepare Your Work Surface and Preheat Oven**
* Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure your oven rack is positioned in the center for even baking.
* Lightly flour a clean, flat work surface. This will prevent the dough from sticking as you roll it out.
**Step 2: Roll Out the Dough**
* Place the thawed bread dough onto the floured surface.
* Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a large rectangle, approximately 12×16 inches. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch. The thinner the dough, the easier it will be to roll up tightly.
**Step 3: Layer on the Sauce and Cheese**
* Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. This border will help seal the stromboli.
* Layer the provolone cheese slices over the sauce, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
* Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the provolone.
**Step 4: Add the Ham (or Other Meats)**
* Arrange the sliced ham evenly over the cheese. You can overlap the slices slightly if needed.
* If you’re using other meats like salami or pepperoni, layer them on at this stage as well.
**Step 5: Season with Italian Seasoning and Optional Spices**
* Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the fillings.
* If desired, add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor. Adjust the amount to your preference.
**Step 6: Roll Up the Stromboli**
* Starting from one of the long edges, carefully roll up the dough tightly, like a jelly roll.
* Pinch the seam to seal it securely. Also, pinch the ends to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
**Step 7: Prepare for Baking**
* Carefully transfer the stromboli to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
* Use a sharp knife to make several diagonal slits across the top of the stromboli. This will allow steam to escape during baking and prevent the crust from bursting.
**Step 8: Brush with Olive Oil and Egg Wash (Optional)**
* Brush the entire surface of the stromboli with olive oil. This will help it brown nicely in the oven.
* For a golden-brown and glossy finish, brush with beaten egg. This step is optional but adds a beautiful touch.
**Step 9: Bake the Stromboli**
* Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
* Keep an eye on the stromboli during baking. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil.
**Step 10: Cool and Serve**
* Remove the stromboli from the oven and let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
* Use a serrated knife to slice the stromboli into 1-inch thick slices.
* Serve warm, with extra pizza sauce or marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.
## Tips for the Perfect 50s Stromboli
* **Don’t Overfill:** Overfilling the stromboli can make it difficult to roll up and seal, leading to filling leakage during baking. Be mindful of the amount of fillings you use.
* **Seal Tightly:** A well-sealed stromboli is key to preventing the filling from escaping. Pinch the seam and ends firmly to ensure a secure closure.
* **Use Good Quality Dough:** The quality of your bread dough will significantly impact the final result. Choose a brand that you trust and that rises well.
* **Adjust Baking Time:** Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Keep an eye on the stromboli and adjust the baking time as needed to ensure the crust is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
* **Let it Rest:** Allowing the stromboli to rest for a few minutes after baking before slicing will help the filling set and prevent it from oozing out.
* **Experiment with Fillings:** Don’t be afraid to get creative with your fillings! Try different combinations of meats, cheeses, and vegetables to create your own unique stromboli.
## Variations and Adaptations
This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to experiment and adapt it to your preferences.
* **Meat Lovers Stromboli:** Add pepperoni, sausage, and bacon for an extra meaty treat.
* **Vegetarian Stromboli:** Use a variety of vegetables such as mushrooms, onions, peppers, and spinach.
* **Spicy Stromboli:** Add jalapenos, red pepper flakes, or a spicy marinara sauce for a kick.
* **Hawaiian Stromboli:** Include pineapple and ham for a sweet and savory twist.
* **Chicken Stromboli:** Use cooked chicken breast and your favorite BBQ sauce for a delicious variation.
## Serving Suggestions
Stromboli is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways.
* **As an Appetizer:** Slice the stromboli into smaller pieces and serve as an appetizer for parties or gatherings.
* **As a Main Course:** Serve larger slices of stromboli as a main course with a side salad or soup.
* **For Lunch:** Stromboli makes a great lunch option, either hot or cold.
* **Picnics and Potlucks:** Stromboli is easy to transport and serve, making it a perfect choice for picnics and potlucks.
## Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
* **Make-Ahead:** You can assemble the stromboli ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
* **Freezing:** Stromboli freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
* **Storage:** Leftover stromboli can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven, microwave, or toaster oven.
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
* **Can I use homemade pizza dough?**
* Yes, you can absolutely use homemade pizza dough. Just be sure to roll it out to the desired thickness.
* **Can I use different cheeses?**
* Of course! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or fontina.
* **Can I add vegetables to the stromboli?**
* Yes, you can add vegetables like mushrooms, onions, peppers, and spinach. Just be sure to cook them beforehand to remove excess moisture.
* **How do I prevent the stromboli from sticking to the baking sheet?**
* Line the baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
* **My stromboli is browning too quickly. What should I do?**
* Tent the stromboli with foil to prevent it from browning too quickly.
## Embrace the Retro Charm!
This easy 50s stromboli recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a connection to a bygone era. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a perfect choice for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or any time you’re craving a comforting and satisfying dish. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a taste of nostalgia. Happy baking!
Enjoy this delightful journey back in time with every bite of your homemade stromboli. It’s a perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and a touch of vintage charm!