The aroma of warm, cheesy goodness wafts through the air, mingling with the earthy scent of fresh spinach. Imagine biting into a golden-brown Spinach & Cheese Stromboli, its flaky crust giving way to a rich and creamy filling that hugs your taste buds like a long-lost friend.
Growing up, my family had a tradition of pizza night every Friday. We would gather around the table, laughter mixing with the smell of dough rising in the oven. One magical evening, my mom decided to surprise us with this Spinach & Cheese Stromboli instead of our usual pizza. Little did we know that this delicious twist would become a cherished family favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Spinach & Cheese Stromboli is incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends
- Packed with flavor, it offers a delightful combination of cheesy richness and fresh spinach goodness
- The visual appeal is undeniable as it emerges from the oven, golden brown and perfectly puffed
- It’s versatile enough for any occasion—serve it as an appetizer, snack, or main dish!
I still remember my cousin’s face when she took her first bite—it was pure bliss.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pizza Dough: Fresh or store-bought works wonders; just ensure it’s at room temperature for easy handling.
Fresh Spinach: Use vibrant greens; they add both color and nutrition to your stromboli.
Ricotta Cheese: Creamy and slightly sweet; opt for whole milk ricotta for the best texture.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: A must for that gooey stretch; feel free to mix in some cheddar for extra flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds a salty kick; use freshly grated for an unbeatable taste.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle elevates flavors; I can’t resist adding a bit more than called for!
Olive Oil: For brushing on top before baking—this ensures a golden crust full of flavor.
Italian Seasoning: A pinch adds warmth and depth; you can also use fresh herbs if available.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Spinach & Cheese Stromboli
Start by preparing your workspace; clear off that kitchen counter because we’re about to get our hands doughy!
Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper while you prepare your stromboli.
Sauté the Spinach: In a skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and toss in fresh spinach until wilted. The vibrant green color will make your kitchen feel alive!
Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan, sautéed spinach, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir until everything is well mixed and oozing with cheese.
Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle about 12×16 inches. Aim for even thickness so it bakes uniformly—no one likes a soggy bottom!
Add the Filling: Spread the cheesy spinach mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving about an inch border along the edges. Feel free to channel your inner artist here!
Fold and Seal: Carefully roll up the dough from one end to another like you mean it! Pinch the seams tightly to prevent any cheesy escapes during baking—trust me on this one.
Bake to Perfection: Brush olive oil over the top of your stromboli and sprinkle extra parmesan on top if you’re feeling fancy. Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and irresistibly aromatic.
And there you have it—the joyfully cheesy Spinach & Cheese Stromboli awaits! Enjoy warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping—a perfect companion for this delightful dish!
You Must Know
- This Spinach & Cheese Stromboli is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures
- The crispy exterior gives way to a warm, gooey cheese center
- It’s perfect for gatherings or as a comforting weeknight dish that will impress your family and friends
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the best Spinach & Cheese Stromboli, roll out the dough first, then fill with spinach and cheese, finally bake until golden brown. This order ensures even cooking and flavor integration.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your stromboli by adding cooked meats like sausage or pepperoni, or switch up the cheese choices with provolone or mozzarella for different flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover stromboli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfecting your Spinach & Cheese Stromboli, ensure the dough is not too thick; otherwise, it won’t cook evenly
- Let the filling cool before adding to prevent sogginess
- Use parchment paper on your baking sheet for easy cleanup and better browning
Sharing this dish always reminds me of my friend’s dinner party where everyone had seconds. It was a hit!
FAQ
Can I use frozen spinach for Spinach & Cheese Stromboli?
Yes, frozen spinach works well; just make sure to thaw and drain it properly.
What type of cheese is best for this stromboli?
A mix of mozzarella and ricotta creates a creamy texture that complements spinach perfectly.
How do I know when my stromboli is done baking?
Your stromboli is ready when it’s golden brown on top and produces a lovely aroma.
Spinach & Cheese Stromboli
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Spinach & Cheese Stromboli, where a flaky golden-brown crust envelops a creamy filling of ricotta, mozzarella, and fresh spinach. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish is both visually appealing and incredibly satisfying. Serve it as an appetizer or a main dish, paired with marinara sauce for dipping. Get ready to impress family and friends with this comforting classic!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 lb pizza dough (fresh or store-bought)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for brushing)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped spinach until wilted; set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, sautéed spinach, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.
- Roll out pizza dough into a rectangle (12×16 inches) on a floured surface.
- Spread the filling evenly over the dough, leaving a one-inch border.
- Roll up the dough tightly from one end to another and pinch seams to seal.
- Brush the top with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (126g)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, mix in cooked sausage or pepperoni. - Use fresh herbs instead of dried Italian seasoning for an aromatic twist. - Ensure the filling cools slightly before spreading to prevent a soggy crust.
