Mozzarella Cheesesteak Stromboli: A Comfort-Food Classic with a Cheesy Twist

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mozzarella Cheesesteak Stromboli combines everything people love about a classic cheesesteak with the irresistible appeal of baked, golden dough. It is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for sharing, whether you are hosting a casual gathering or preparing a satisfying family dinner. What makes this recipe especially appealing is its balance of textures: tender beef, melted mozzarella, and a crisp yet soft crust. I enjoy this stromboli because it delivers bold, familiar flavors in a format that feels fun and versatile. When I first tested it, I was impressed by how well the mozzarella melted into the steak, creating a rich, cohesive filling without overpowering the meat. This recipe is straightforward enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough to serve to guests. It is comfort food at its best, baked into a satisfying, sliceable roll.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pizza dough serves as the base of the stromboli. It provides structure and bakes into a golden crust that holds the filling securely.

Beef steak is the star protein. Thinly sliced steak cooks quickly and stays tender, making it ideal for this recipe.

Mozzarella cheese delivers the classic stretchy, melty texture. Its mild flavor allows the beef to shine while adding richness.

Onions add sweetness and depth. When cooked, they soften and blend seamlessly into the filling.

Bell peppers contribute color and mild sweetness. They complement the savory steak without dominating the flavor.

Garlic enhances the overall savoriness. A small amount adds aroma and depth to the filling.

Olive oil is used for sautéing the vegetables and steak. It adds subtle richness and prevents sticking.

Italian seasoning brings balance and gentle herbaceous notes that tie the ingredients together.

Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning and highlighting the natural flavors of the filling.

Egg wash gives the stromboli a glossy, golden finish once baked.

Directions

Begin by preheating the oven and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Allow the pizza dough to rest at room temperature for easier rolling.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened and lightly caramelized. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.

Add the sliced steak to the skillet, seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook quickly until just done, then remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.

Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread the steak and vegetable mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Scatter the mozzarella cheese evenly over the filling. Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, sealing the edges and tucking in the ends.

Transfer the stromboli to the prepared baking sheet, seam-side down. Brush with egg wash and make small slits on top to allow steam to escape.

Bake until golden brown and fully cooked. Allow to rest briefly before slicing and serving.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease

Servings and timing

This mozzarella cheesesteak stromboli serves four to six people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a baking time of 25 to 30 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover stromboli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at a moderate temperature to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can soften the crust.

Variations and Customizations

Mozzarella Cheesesteak Stromboli is highly adaptable, making it easy to tailor to your preferences. For a more traditional cheesesteak flavor, provolone can be used in place of mozzarella or combined with it for added depth. I tested a half-and-half cheese version, and it added a slightly sharper note that worked beautifully.

Mushrooms are a natural addition and pair well with beef, adding earthiness and extra texture. If you prefer a bit of heat, sliced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper can be added to the filling.

For a lighter version, chicken steak strips can replace beef. This variation still delivers plenty of flavor while offering a slightly leaner option.

You can also experiment with the dough. Whole wheat pizza dough adds a nutty flavor, while store-bought dough keeps preparation quick and convenient without sacrificing results.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dish provides protein from the beef and calcium from the mozzarella cheese. The dough contributes carbohydrates for energy, while vegetables add fiber and micronutrients. Portion control helps keep it balanced as part of a complete meal.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Cool the filling slightly
This prevents the dough from becoming soggy.

Do not overfill
Too much filling can cause tearing or leaking.

Seal edges well
Proper sealing keeps the cheese inside while baking.

Rest before slicing
Allowing the stromboli to rest helps it hold its shape.

FAQs

Can I make stromboli ahead of time?

Yes, it can be assembled ahead and baked just before serving.

What cut of beef works best?

Thinly sliced steak such as sirloin or ribeye is ideal.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, store-bought pizza dough works very well.

Is mozzarella the best cheese choice?

Mozzarella melts smoothly, but provolone also works.

Can I freeze stromboli?

Freezing is possible, but texture is best when fresh.

How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?

Avoid adding the filling while it is too hot.

Can I add sauce inside?

A small amount can be added, but too much may leak.

What sides pair well with this dish?

A simple salad or roasted vegetables complement it well.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, replace steak with mushrooms and extra vegetables.

How thick should I slice it?

Medium slices hold together best and serve evenly.

Conclusion

Mozzarella Cheesesteak Stromboli is a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together bold flavors and comforting textures. With its cheesy filling and golden crust, it offers a fresh take on a classic favorite. Whether served as a main course or shared as a hearty snack, this stromboli is sure to become a regular addition to your recipe rotation.

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