Ground Beef and Cheese Stromboli is a savory, comforting, and satisfying dish that combines seasoned ground beef with gooey melted cheese, all wrapped in soft, golden-brown pizza dough.

This Italian-American favorite is perfect for family dinners, game day, or potluck gatherings. The combination of rich beef, melted cheese, and aromatic herbs makes every bite flavorful and irresistible.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both hearty and comforting. The filling is rich and flavorful, the cheese melts perfectly, and the dough turns golden and slightly crispy on the outside. It’s a hands-on recipe that’s fun to assemble and even more enjoyable to eat.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it combines the best elements of a pizza and a calzone in one portable, shareable meal. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, customizable to taste, and delivers bold, satisfying flavors in every slice.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, and Nutrition

Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour dough rising)
Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 50 minutes

Servings: 6–8 servings
Calories: Approximately 450–500 calories per serving

Course: Main Course / Snack
Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Filling

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup pizza sauce or marinara (optional, for brushing inside)

For Topping

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds or dried oregano (optional)

Cooking Directions

Prepare pizza dough and let it rise until doubled in size. Sauté onion, garlic, and ground beef with seasonings until fully cooked. Roll dough into a rectangle, spread pizza sauce (if using), then layer beef mixture and cheeses. Roll dough tightly into a log and seal edges. Brush with egg wash, sprinkle with optional seeds or herbs, and bake until golden brown and cooked through. Slice and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the dough by combining flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a large bowl. Add warm water and olive oil. Knead until smooth and elastic, about 8–10 minutes. Cover and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: While the dough rises, prepare the filling. Heat a skillet over medium heat, add onion and garlic, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add ground beef, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook until beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 4: Roll the risen dough into a large rectangle, about 12×16 inches. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce on the dough if desired.

Step 5: Evenly distribute the cooked beef mixture over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the beef.

Step 6: Carefully roll the dough into a log, starting from the long side, and pinch the edges to seal the stromboli completely.

Step 7: Transfer the stromboli to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the top with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds or dried oregano if desired.

Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through. Let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing.

How to Serve This Recipe

Slice the Ground Beef and Cheese Stromboli into 1-inch pieces and serve hot. It pairs well with a side salad, garlic dipping sauce, or extra marinara sauce for dipping. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a party appetizer.

Recipe Tips

Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean slices. Ensure the edges are well-sealed to prevent filling from leaking. Let the beef mixture cool slightly before adding to the dough to avoid soggy dough. Brush with egg wash for a golden, shiny crust.

Variations in Detail

Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra vegetables. Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for different flavors. Use provolone, cheddar, or a cheese blend instead of mozzarella for a twist. For a spicier version, add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling.

Freezing and Storage

Store leftover stromboli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes. Stromboli can be frozen unbaked for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet or frying pan
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Knife or pizza cutter

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes, store-bought dough works perfectly and saves time.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the stromboli and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before baking.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pizza dough and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I add more cheese?
Absolutely, add extra mozzarella or your favorite cheese for a gooier filling.

Conclusion

Ground Beef and Cheese Stromboli is a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying dish that combines tender pizza dough with savory ground beef and melty cheese. Perfect for family meals, parties, or casual dinners, it’s versatile, customizable, and sure to please both kids and adults. With its golden crust and rich filling, this stromboli is a must-try for anyone who loves Italian-American comfort food.