The holiday season has a way of igniting nostalgia, and there's something about the festive aroma of freshly baked bread that fills my heart with joy. Picture this: a warm Christmas Stromboli, bursting at the seams with rich cheeses, savory meats, and colorful vegetables, making it the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table. This delightful dish not only shines as a comforting main course but also sparks conversation and smiles among family and friends as they gather to celebrate.

Whether you’re hosting a big family lunch or enjoying a cozy meal with loved ones, this festive Stromboli brings a touch of warmth and cheer to any gathering. Plus, it's adaptable! Feel free to get creative with your favorite fillings, making it as unique as your holiday traditions. Join me in crafting this delicious dish and transform your Christmas spread into a merry feast that everyone will remember long after the last slice is gone!

Why will you love Christmas Stromboli?

Comforting and Hearty: This Christmas Stromboli is loaded with flavors and textures that everyone will adore, featuring rich cheeses and savory fillings that are sure to become a festive favorite.
Flexible Filling Options: Tailor this dish to your taste by mixing and matching ingredients—perfect for using up leftover holiday meats or seasonal veggies.
Crowd-Pleasing Centerpiece: Its impressive appearance makes it a show-stopping centerpiece for any holiday gathering, sure to spark joy and conversation.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward preparation steps, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying festive moments.
Warming Aromas: As it bakes, your home will be filled with irresistible aromas, evoking memories of joyous holiday gatherings.
For more festive ideas, check out these delightful Christmas Lunch Recipes!

Christmas Stromboli Ingredients

• The key to making your Christmas Stromboli a delightful treat lies in the ingredients!

For the Dough

All-purpose flour – Essential for a sturdy yet tender dough that holds all your yummy fillings.
Active dry yeast – This is what makes your dough rise beautifully, giving it a light and airy texture.
Warm water – Activate the yeast without killing it; aim for about 110°F for best results.
Olive oil – Adds flavor and helps keep the dough moist.
Salt – Enhances all the other flavors in your Stromboli.

For the Filling

Mozzarella cheese – The gooey cheese that stretches deliciously with each bite; feel free to mix in provolone for more flavor.
Cooked meats (ham, pepperoni, or turkey) – Choose your favorites; they add a savory kick to balance the richness of the cheese.
Bell peppers – Fresh and colorful, they bring a subtle sweetness and crunch to your Stromboli.
Spinach or kale – Adds a pop of color and a nutritious touch; cooked and drained well to avoid excess moisture.
Italian herbs (oregano, basil) – Sprinkle these in for that authentic Italian flavor; they tie all the ingredients together beautifully.

For the Egg Wash

Egg – Gives the Stromboli a beautiful golden-brown finish; whisk it with a splash of water for an even coat.

Optional Toppings

Sesame seeds – Sprinkle on top of the Stromboli before baking for an added crunch and nuttiness.
Grated Parmesan cheese – For a finishing touch that's both flavorful and visually appealing; it crisps up nicely in the oven.

Remember, each ingredient contributes to the deliciousness of your Christmas Stromboli, so choose what's best for your festive table!

How to Make Christmas Stromboli

Prepare the Dough:
In a bowl, combine warm water and yeast, allowing it to sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Then, mix in flour, salt, and olive oil. Knead until smooth, about 5-7 minutes.
Let it Rise:
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm area for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Roll it Out:
Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
Add the Fillings:
Layer your mozzarella cheese, cooked meats, bell peppers, spinach, and sprinkle Italian herbs evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Roll it Up:
Starting from one edge, tightly roll the dough into a log, ensuring the fillings stay put. Pinch the seams to seal it well.
Prepare for Baking:
Place your rolled Stromboli seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle optional toppings if desired.
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the Stromboli for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Cool and Slice:
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly for 10 minutes. Slice into thick pieces and serve warm.

Optional: Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

Planning ahead with your Christmas Stromboli is a fantastic way to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance—just mix, knead, and let it rise as directed. Once the dough has risen, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Additionally, you can chop and assemble your fillings (rich cheeses and savory meats) and keep them refrigerated for up to 3 days; this not only maintains their freshness but also streamlines the prep process. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll out the cold dough, add your fillings, roll it up, and bake as instructed. This will ensure your Christmas Stromboli is just as delicious and festive with minimal last-minute effort!

What to Serve with Christmas Stromboli?

Experience a festive meal that embraces the spirit of the holiday season with delicious pairings alongside this savory creation.

Mixed Green Salad: A light and refreshing salad balances the rich flavors of the Stromboli and adds a lovely crunch.
Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky taste of warm bread complements the cheese and meat, enhancing the overall comforting experience.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies, roasted until caramelized, provide a sweet contrast and vibrant color to your holiday spread.
Marinara Sauce: Serve a side of marinara for dipping; its zesty flavor will elevate the comforting goodness of your Stromboli.
Holiday Punch: A festive drink, like cranberry or apple cider punch, pairs perfectly with the rich flavors, keeping spirits high at your gathering.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses offers a delightful nibble between slices, adding variety and sophistication to your meal; don’t forget the crackers!
Peppered Potato Wedges: Crispy seasoned wedges make a hearty side that adds texture while complementing the warmth of the Stromboli.
Pumpkin Cheesecake: End the meal on a sweet note with indulgent pumpkin cheesecake, perfectly fitting the festive vibe of the season.
Warm Spiced Cider: A cozy drink option that echoes the holiday spirit—its cinnamon and clove notes will warm your guests from the inside out.

Christmas Stromboli Variations & Substitutions

Get ready to make this festive dish your own with countless fantastic twists!

Vegetarian Delight: Substitute all meats with roasted vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and sun-dried tomatoes for a veggie-packed version.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a zesty burst of flavor that warms the palate.
Cheesy Extravaganza: Use a mix of cheeses such as cheddar, gouda, or feta alongside mozzarella for a flavorful cheese blend that's sure to please.
Herbaceous Twist: Sprinkle additional fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme on the filling for a fragrant and earthy twist; it enhances the festive flair.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate toasted walnuts or pine nuts into your filling for added texture and a hint of nuttiness that complements the flavors beautifully.
Funky Feta: Replace mozzarella with crumbled feta cheese for a tangy flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with spinach or roasted peppers.
Smoked Flavor: Use smoked turkey or ham for a delightful depth of flavor that adds a twist to traditional holiday tastes.
Cranberry Surprise: Add a layer of cranberry sauce inside for a sweet and tangy contrast that brightens up every bite of your Stromboli.

Each variation allows you to express your cooking style while sharing joy this holiday season!

Expert Tips for Christmas Stromboli

Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is smooth and elastic by kneading adequately; this helps create a chewy texture in your Christmas Stromboli.
Filling Balance: Avoid overstuffing your Stromboli, as too much filling can cause it to burst during baking. Stick to a moderate amount for the best results.
Egg Wash Benefits: Brushing the surface with egg wash not only enhances the visual appeal but also helps create a crispy golden crust around your Christmas Stromboli.
Baking Temperature: Use the right oven temperature for even baking; if too hot, the outside can brown too quickly, leaving the inside undercooked.
Resting Time: Allow the Stromboli to cool slightly before slicing to prevent cheese from oozing out, ensuring neat and satisfying pieces.

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Stromboli

Room Temperature: Enjoy your Christmas Stromboli at room temperature for up to 2 days, wrapped tightly to maintain freshness and prevent it from drying out.

Fridge: Store leftover Stromboli in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 5 days, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful.

Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy!

Reheating: To reheat, place the Stromboli in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This helps revive that delightful cheese pull and flaky texture!

Christmas Stromboli Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my dough is ready?
Absolutely! Your dough is ready when it has doubled in size after rising, which should take about 1 hour. It should feel soft, smooth, and slightly tacky to the touch. A gentle poke with your finger should leave a slight indentation.

How should I store leftover Christmas Stromboli?
For the best results, store your leftover Christmas Stromboli in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it up to ensure moisture retention.

Can I freeze Christmas Stromboli?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Christmas Stromboli, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

What if my Stromboli leaks during baking?
Very easily done! If you find your Stromboli leaking a bit during baking, it might be due to overstuffing it. Aim for a moderate amount of filling; also, ensure to pinch the seams tightly. If it does burst, don’t worry! It’ll still taste delicious, and you can always serve it with a side of marinara for dipping.

Is there a gluten-free option for the dough?
Indeed there is! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Just make sure to also use a gluten-free yeast, if available. Be aware that the texture may differ slightly, but it will still be a delightful treat!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the cooked meats and consider adding more veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or olives, along with a mix of your favorite cheeses for that satisfying and hearty flavor. The more the merrier!

These Christmas Stromboli Recipe FAQs should help you successfully create and enjoy this festive dish!