Baked High-Protein Pepperoni Stromboli

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This hearty Italian-American classic wraps seasoned lean ground beef, spicy pepperoni slices, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses inside pizza dough. Baked until golden and crispy, each satisfying slice delivers 37 grams of protein. The preparation involves sautéing onions and garlic, browning the beef with Italian herbs and red pepper flakes, then rolling everything into a tight log. A quick egg wash creates that beautiful golden finish, while steam vents ensure even cooking throughout.

Updated on Sun, 08 Feb 2026 09:31:32 GMT
Freshly baked Baked High-Protein Pepperoni Stromboli with golden, flaky crust on a wooden cutting board, sliced to show layered beef and mozzarella filling. Save
Freshly baked Baked High-Protein Pepperoni Stromboli with golden, flaky crust on a wooden cutting board, sliced to show layered beef and mozzarella filling. | berrycottage.com

A hearty, protein-packed Italian-American classic, this stromboli features pizza dough rolled with lean ground beef, spicy pepperoni, and gooey mozzarella cheese, then baked until golden and sliced into satisfying portions.

Freshly baked Baked High-Protein Pepperoni Stromboli with golden, flaky crust on a wooden cutting board, sliced to show layered beef and mozzarella filling. Save
Freshly baked Baked High-Protein Pepperoni Stromboli with golden, flaky crust on a wooden cutting board, sliced to show layered beef and mozzarella filling. | berrycottage.com

This recipe is an excellent choice for a filling dinner or a crowd-pleasing snack. By using lean ground beef and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan, you get a rich flavor profile that feels indulgent while supporting a high-protein diet.

Ingredients

  • Dough: 1 pound (450 g) pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
  • Meat & Cheese Filling: 8 oz (225 g) lean ground beef, 2 oz (60 g) pepperoni slices, 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup (60 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • Vegetables & Seasoning: 1/2 cup (60 g) chopped onions, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or a mix), 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional), Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • Extras: 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash), 1 tbsp olive oil, Marinara sauce, for serving
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Instructions

Step 1
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté onions for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Step 3
Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
Step 4
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle (about 12x16 inches / 30x40 cm).
Step 5
Evenly spread the cooked beef mixture over the dough, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border on all sides.
Step 6
Layer pepperoni slices over the beef. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly on top.
Step 7
Starting from a long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log, pinching the ends and seam to seal.
Step 8
Place the stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the top with beaten egg.
Step 9
Using a sharp knife, make 3–4 diagonal slits on top for steam to escape.
Step 10
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Let rest 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 11
Slice and serve with warm marinara sauce.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Be sure to pinch the ends and the long seam tightly to prevent any cheese from leaking out during the baking process. Letting the cooked meat mixture cool slightly before adding it to the dough prevents the dough from becoming soggy.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a lower fat version, use turkey or chicken instead of beef and low-fat cheese. You can also add sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

Serviervorschläge

This stromboli is great paired with a simple green salad and a light Italian red wine. Always serve it with a small bowl of warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

A golden-brown Baked High-Protein Pepperoni Stromboli rests beside a small bowl of warm marinara sauce for dipping, perfect for a family dinner. Save
A golden-brown Baked High-Protein Pepperoni Stromboli rests beside a small bowl of warm marinara sauce for dipping, perfect for a family dinner. | berrycottage.com

Whether you're serving this for a family dinner or a weekend gathering, this Baked High-Protein Pepperoni Stromboli is sure to be a satisfying hit that brings classic Italian flavors to your table.

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Recipe FAQ

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the stromboli, wrap it tightly in plastic, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking cold.

What's the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat slices in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes to restore crispiness. The microwave works but will make the crust softer.

Can I freeze this stromboli?

Wrap the unbaked stromboli tightly in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

What other meats can I use?

Italian sausage, ground turkey, or cooked bacon work great. You can also make a vegetarian version with spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms.

Why do I need to cut slits in the top?

The diagonal slits allow steam to escape during baking, preventing the stromboli from bursting and ensuring even cooking throughout.

Can I use frozen bread dough instead?

Absolutely! Thaw frozen bread dough completely, let it rise once, then roll out and fill according to the instructions.

Baked High-Protein Pepperoni Stromboli

Golden-baked stromboli stuffed with seasoned beef, pepperoni, and mozzarella cheese.

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Prep duration
20 min
Cook duration
30 min
Complete duration
50 min
Created by Lily Anderson


Complexity Medium

Heritage Italian-American

Output 4 Portions

Dietary considerations None specified

Components

Dough

01 1 pound pizza dough, store-bought or homemade

Meat & Cheese Filling

01 8 ounces lean ground beef
02 2 ounces pepperoni slices
03 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
04 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Vegetables & Seasoning

01 1/2 cup chopped onions
02 2 cloves garlic, minced
03 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
04 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
05 Salt and black pepper to taste

Extras

01 1 large egg, beaten for egg wash
02 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 Marinara sauce for serving

Directions

Direction 01

Prepare the Oven and Work Surface: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Direction 02

Sauté Aromatics and Brown Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions for 2 to 3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes. Cook until browned and no longer pink, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool for 5 minutes.

Direction 03

Roll Out Pizza Dough: On a lightly floured work surface, roll out pizza dough into a large rectangle approximately 12 by 16 inches.

Direction 04

Layer Filling Components: Evenly spread the cooled beef mixture over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides. Layer pepperoni slices over the beef. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly across the top.

Direction 05

Roll and Seal Stromboli: Starting from a long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the ends and seam to seal completely.

Direction 06

Prepare for Baking: Place the stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the top with beaten egg. Using a sharp knife, make 3 to 4 diagonal slits on the surface to allow steam to escape.

Direction 07

Bake Until Golden: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the exterior is golden brown and the stromboli is cooked through. Remove from the oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Direction 08

Serve: Slice the stromboli into individual portions and serve with warm marinara sauce.

Necessary tools

  • Large skillet
  • Rolling pin
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Pastry brush
  • Sharp knife

Allergy information

Review each ingredient for potential allergens and seek professional medical advice if you have concerns.
  • Contains wheat and gluten from pizza dough
  • Contains dairy from mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses
  • Contains eggs from egg wash
  • Pepperoni may contain additional allergens—verify labels for sensitivities

Nutritional information (per portion)

These values are estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 520
  • Fats: 25 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Proteins: 37 g