Ultimate Vegan Stromboli Recipe: A Hearty Plant-Based Pizza Roll Perfect for Sharing
Prepare for a culinary delight that will revolutionize your perception of vegan comfort food: this incredible vegan stromboli recipe. Imagine a generously sized pizza roll, brimming with an irresistible blend of melty plant-based cheese and savory vegetables, all encased within a gloriously golden-brown, crispy crust. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, offering all the beloved flavors of classic pizza in a fun, shareable format that’s ideal for any gathering. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to easily customize it with your absolute favorite fillings!
Stromboli, a culinary cousin to the calzone, offers a distinctive appeal. While both feature a delicious dough crust wrapped around delectable fillings, a stromboli is typically larger, crafted by rolling the dough into a log rather than folding it into a half-moon shape. This rolling technique makes it wonderfully sliceable, presenting beautiful cross-sections of its savory interior. Traditionally, stromboli recipes boast fillings of various meats, cheeses, and sometimes vegetables, always served alongside a rich dipping sauce. Transforming this Italian-American classic into a vegan masterpiece is surprisingly straightforward.
To make a plant-based stromboli, we simply omit the meats and dairy cheese, opting instead for a high-quality vegan cheese that melts beautifully and a generous abundance of fresh vegetables. For this particular rendition, I’ve chosen a harmonious trio of earthy mushrooms, sweet caramelized onions, and vibrant bell peppers, creating a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and exciting. However, the beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability; consider it a blank canvas for any topping you adore on your favorite vegan pizza. Whether it’s spicy jalapeños, sun-dried tomatoes, or hearty plant-based sausage, feel free to unleash your creativity.
This year, I’m planning for this spectacular vegan stromboli to take center stage as my main dish for the holidays. Much like a magnificent vegan Wellington, its impressive appearance on the table is matched only by its incredible taste. It’s so undeniably delicious that even the most dedicated meat-eaters at your celebration will undoubtedly be clamoring for a slice! It’s truly a testament to how flavorful and satisfying plant-based cuisine can be, especially during festive occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Stromboli Recipe
- All the Comforting Flavors of Pizza, in a Unique Form. If you’re a devoted fan of vegan pizza, get ready to fall in love all over again with this vegan stromboli. It captures all the classic, comforting flavors you adore – tangy marinara, rich melty cheese, and your favorite toppings – but in an exciting, rolled-up package. This format makes it ideal for sharing, slicing into individual portions, and, of course, dipping generously into extra sauce. It’s a delightful twist on a familiar favorite that feels both novel and incredibly satisfying.
- Effortless Customization for Every Palate. One of the greatest joys of this stromboli recipe is its boundless adaptability. While I share some fantastic ideas for personalizing your stromboli later in this post, the possibilities truly are endless. Whether you prefer a spicier kick, a richer assortment of vegetables, or the addition of plant-based meats, you can easily put your unique spin on this dish. It’s perfect for catering to diverse tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring everyone at your table finds something to love.
- A Delicious Option for Any Occasion, Big or Small. From casual weeknight dinners to elaborate holiday feasts, this vegan stromboli is a guaranteed crowd-plepleaser. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, hosting a Thanksgiving gathering, or simply looking for an impressive yet easy-to-make dish for a party, this plant-based stromboli promises to be a hit. Its elegant presentation and irresistible flavors make it suitable for any event where good food and good company are paramount.
- Perfect for Meal Prep and Freezing. This stromboli isn’t just for immediate enjoyment. It’s also an excellent candidate for meal prepping. You can prepare elements in advance, or even bake the entire stromboli and freeze it for later. This makes it a fantastic option for busy individuals or families who appreciate having delicious, homemade meals ready to go, saving precious time on future occasions.
Essential Notes on Ingredients for Your Vegan Stromboli
For exact quantities and detailed instructions, please refer to the recipe card located further down this page.
- Pizza Dough: The foundation of any great stromboli is excellent pizza dough. For optimal flavor and texture, I highly recommend using my trusted homemade vegan pizza dough. Its elasticity and flavor are unmatched. However, to save time, a good quality store-bought vegan pizza dough or even crescent roll dough (check ingredients for vegan suitability) can be a convenient alternative. Just ensure it’s fresh and at room temperature for easy rolling.
- Olive Oil: A staple in Italian cooking, extra virgin olive oil is used both for sautéing the vegetables, imparting a rich, aromatic base, and for brushing the exterior of the stromboli, contributing to its beautiful golden crust and enhanced flavor.
- Flavorful Vegetables: Our chosen blend includes sweet yellow or red onions, which are slowly caramelized to bring out their inherent sweetness and depth. Fresh mushrooms (cremini or button work wonderfully) add an earthy umami, while colorful bell peppers (red, yellow, or green) provide a touch of sweetness and a satisfying crunch once cooked. Freshly minced garlic is, of course, essential for that classic Italian aromatic profile.
- Classic Seasonings: To elevate the flavors, we rely on a blend of dried oregano and dried basil, which are quintessential Italian herbs. These dried herbs are concentrated in flavor, perfect for baking. A simple seasoning of salt and freshly cracked black pepper brings everything into balance.
- Vegan Mozzarella Cheese: The key to a truly “melty” stromboli is the right vegan cheese. I highly recommend purchasing a pre-shredded vegan mozzarella that is specifically formulated for melting. Brands vary significantly, so choose one you’ve had success with on pizzas or other baked dishes to ensure that satisfying gooey texture.
- Marinara or Pizza Sauce: A robust and flavorful sauce is crucial for dipping and as an internal layer. You can opt for a high-quality store-bought marinara or pizza sauce for convenience, or truly elevate your stromboli with a batch of homemade marinara sauce. The richness of the sauce complements the savory fillings beautifully.
- Simple Topping Mixture: For the exterior, a light brush of olive oil, followed by a sprinkle of dried oregano, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt, creates a wonderfully aromatic and crispy crust. The garlic powder adds a uniform savory note, while the oregano enhances the overall Italian theme.
How to Make Perfect Vegan Stromboli: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Caramelize the Onions to Perfection: In a large skillet, warm a generous amount of olive oil over a gentle medium-low heat. Add your thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. Cook patiently, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes. The goal is a deep, golden-brown hue, indicating their sweet caramelization. Once achieved, remove them from the pan and set them aside.
- Sauté the Mushrooms and Peppers: If your skillet looks dry, add a tiny bit more olive oil. Introduce the sliced mushrooms and bell peppers to the pan and cook for another 7-10 minutes. Stir them until they’ve softened considerably and most of their natural moisture has evaporated, intensifying their flavor.
- Infuse with Garlic and Seasonings: Now, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for just 1 minute until it becomes wonderfully fragrant – be careful not to burn it! Remove the skillet from the heat, then stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good mix to combine the flavors thoroughly. Set this aromatic vegetable mixture aside.
- Preheat Your Oven: Get your oven ready by preheating it to a steady 375ºF (190°C). This ensures your stromboli bakes evenly to a golden perfection.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, carefully roll out your pizza dough into a large, even rectangle, approximately 14×12 inches. Aim for a consistent thickness across the entire surface.
- Spread the Sauce: With an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, spread a thin, even layer of marinara or pizza sauce over the rolled-out dough. Be sure to leave a clear 1-inch border along all edges of the rectangle – this will help with sealing.
- Layer the Delicious Fillings: Evenly distribute the caramelized onions, sautéed mushroom and bell pepper mixture over the sauce-covered dough. Then, sprinkle the shredded vegan mozzarella cheese generously over the vegetables.
- Roll and Seal the Stromboli: Starting from one of the longer edges, carefully and tightly roll the dough into a log, much like you would a jelly roll. Once rolled, firmly pinch the seam along the entire length to seal it closed. Also, pinch and crimp the ends to ensure all the delicious filling stays securely inside. Position the stromboli with the seam side facing up.
- Prepare for Baking (Flip Technique): For easier transfer and to ensure the seam stays down during baking, place a piece of parchment paper over your stromboli roll (which is currently seam side up). Gently but swiftly flip the entire stromboli so it now rests on the parchment paper, seam side down. This makes transferring it to the baking sheet much simpler and prevents the seam from potentially opening up.
- Season and Vent: Carefully transfer the stromboli, still on its parchment paper, to a baking sheet. Brush the top of the stromboli generously with olive oil. Then, sprinkle the dried oregano, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt evenly over the surface. Using a sharp knife, make a few small slits (about 1-2 inches long) on top of the dough. These vents are crucial for allowing steam to escape during baking, preventing the stromboli from bursting.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the baking sheet with the stromboli into your preheated 375ºF oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crust achieves a beautiful deep golden-brown color and appears crispy.
- Rest, Slice, and Serve: Once baked, remove the stromboli from the oven and allow it to cool on the baking sheet for at least 5-10 minutes before attempting to slice it. This brief resting period is vital for the filling to set, preventing it from oozing out when cut. Slice into generous portions and serve immediately with extra marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy every savory bite!
Expert Tips for a Flawless Vegan Stromboli Every Time
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: When rolling out your pizza dough, handle it gently and avoid excessive kneading or stretching. Overworking the dough can lead to an over-development of gluten, resulting in a tough, chewy, and less enjoyable crust. Roll it just enough to reach the desired rectangular shape and thickness.
- Maintain a Thin Layer of Toppings: While it’s tempting to pile on the fillings, resist the urge to overstuff your stromboli. An overly thick layer of toppings will make the dough difficult to roll tightly and evenly. More importantly, it can cause the stromboli to burst open during baking as the steam builds up, leading to a messy overflow of cheese and sauce. To be safe, always use a rimmed baking sheet, which will contain any potential oozing.
- Ensure Edges are Thoroughly Sealed: This is a critical step for preventing leakage. After rolling the stromboli, firmly pinch the seams and ends together, pressing them tightly to create a strong seal. Even after the initial pinch, sometimes the dough can relax and start to pop open. Double-check for any gaps or weak spots and re-pinch them securely. A well-sealed stromboli will hold its shape beautifully and keep all the delicious fillings inside.
- Allow for Adequate Cooling Before Slicing: Patience is key after baking! Let the stromboli rest for at least 5-10 minutes once it comes out of the oven. This cooling period allows the melted vegan cheese and warm fillings to set and firm up. If you slice it too soon, the hot, gooey interior will likely ooze out, making for a messy presentation and difficult serving.
- Get a Head Start with Prep Work: This recipe is wonderfully adaptable for meal prepping. You can prepare the caramelized onions and sautéed vegetables a day or two in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This allows for a quicker assembly process on baking day. You can even assemble the entire stromboli, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. This makes it a fantastic option for entertaining or busy weeknights.
Exciting Vegan Stromboli Variations to Explore
- Incorporate Vegan Meats: For those who enjoy a heartier, more “traditional” stromboli experience, readily available store-bought vegan pepperoni or plant-based sausage crumbles can be fantastic additions to your filling. Sauté the sausage crumbles beforehand to add texture and flavor, or simply layer the pepperoni slices with your vegetables and cheese.
- Experiment with Different Vegetables: The beauty of this stromboli recipe lies in its adaptability to various vegetables. Consider sautéed fresh spinach (squeezed dry to remove excess moisture), tangy sliced artichoke hearts, vibrant roasted red peppers (jarred works well!), or even blanched broccoli florets. Olives, particularly Kalamata or black olives, would also add a wonderful briny kick to the mix. Don’t hesitate to use whatever fresh produce you have on hand or what’s in season.
- Boost the Cheese Factor with Vegan Ricotta: For an even cheesier and creamier stromboli, consider skipping the marinara sauce on the inside and instead spreading a generous layer of creamy homemade vegan ricotta on the dough. This adds a rich, luscious texture and a distinct cheesy flavor. You can then serve the baked stromboli with marinara sauce on the side for dipping or spooning over the top, allowing each slice to be dunked in tangy goodness.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your vegetable mixture or a dash of hot sauce to your marinara for a fiery stromboli.
- Pesto Infusion: Instead of or in addition to marinara, spread a layer of vegan pesto on the dough for a fresh, herbaceous flavor profile.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Your Vegan Stromboli
This versatile vegan stromboli recipe can shine as a satisfying main course for a family dinner, or it can be easily sliced into smaller, bite-sized pieces to serve as an impressive appetizer for a party. To round out your meal, consider pairing it with a crisp and refreshing side. A light and tangy cucumber and tomato salad offers a wonderful counterpoint to the rich stromboli. Alternatively, if you’re looking for something warm and savory, these balsamic roasted vegetables would make an excellent accompaniment. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is also always a good choice to balance the meal.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Vegan Stromboli
Should you be lucky enough to have any leftovers of this delicious vegan stromboli, store them properly to maintain their freshness and flavor. Place any sliced or whole stromboli in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, for best results and to restore that lovely crispy crust, I recommend placing individual slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet and baking them in a 375°F (190°C) oven until thoroughly heated through. The exact baking time will depend on the thickness of your slices, but typically takes about 10-15 minutes. While you can use a microwave for quicker reheating, be aware that the crust will likely become softer and less crisp.
Can I Freeze This Vegan Stromboli for Later? Absolutely!
Yes, this vegan stromboli is an excellent candidate for freezing, allowing you to enjoy a quick and delicious meal whenever the craving strikes! To prevent freezer burn and preserve its quality, first wrap the cooled stromboli tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air gaps. Follow this with a layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, transfer the frozen stromboli to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once thawed, reheat it following the oven instructions above for leftovers, baking until it’s warmed through and the crust is crisp again. This makes it perfect for future gatherings or simply as a convenient, homemade meal option.
More Inspiring Vegan Holiday Main Dish Ideas
- Hearty Vegan Meatloaf (A Perfect Thanksgiving Main)
- Crispy and Flavorful Vegan Fried Chicken
- The Best Layered Vegan Lasagna
- Comforting Vegan Shepherd’s Pie (Gluten-Free Option)
- Impressive Vegan Turkey Roast for Plant-Based Thanksgiving
Enjoy every delicious moment, friends! If you try this fantastic vegan stromboli recipe, we’d absolutely love to see your creations. Please snap a photo and tag #jessicainthekitchen on Instagram! Your feedback means the world to us, so we’d also be thrilled if you could leave a comment below and give the recipe a well-deserved rating. Thank you so much for your support!
Stromboli Recipe
Pin Recipe
Leave a Review
Ingredients
- 1 batch pizza dough
For the Filling:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for caramelizing
- 2 cup mushrooms, 160g, sliced
- 1 large bell pepper, red, yellow, or green, sliced into 1 inch pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup vegan mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup marinara sauce, or pizza sauce
For the Topping:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt.
- Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until they are deeply golden and caramelized. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Add the sliced mushrooms and bell pepper, cook for 7-10 minutes until softened and most of the moisture evaporated.
- Add minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 14×12 inches).
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Layer the caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, and bell peppers evenly over the dough. Sprinkle vegan cheese on top.
- Carefully roll the dough tightly from one long edge to the other, like a jelly roll. Pinch the seams and ends to seal. Position it seam side up.
- Place a piece of parchment paper on top of your stromboli roll. Carefully flip it so the stromboli is positioned on top of the parchment paper, seam side down. Transferring it to the baking sheet on parchment paper will be much easier.
- Place the stromboli on a baking sheet.
- Brush the top with olive oil and sprinkle with dried oregano, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Make a few small slits on top to allow steam to escape.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
- Let the stromboli cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.
Notes
To freeze: Wrap the stromboli tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil to prevent freezer burn and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat according to the instructions above.
Disclaimer: Although jessicainthekitchen.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, kindly note that these are only estimates. Nutritional information may be affected based on the product type, the brand that was purchased, and in other unforeseeable ways. Jessicainthekitchen.com will not be held liable for any loss or damage resulting for your reliance on nutritional information. If you need to follow a specific caloric regimen, please consult your doctor first.