If you’ve ever wondered about the difference between calzone and stromboli, you’re not alone! Both are delicious, stuffed with cheesy, savory goodness, and baked to perfection. But these Italian-American favorites have key differences that set them apart. Whether you crave the rolled layers of a Stromboli or the pocket-style filling of a Calzone, we’ve got you covered with both recipes. Plus, did you know that Stromboli is also the name of an active volcano in Italy? Keep reading for the ultimate Stromboli vs Calzone comparison—and, of course, two irresistible recipes!
Table of Contents
Stromboli Recipe
A Stromboli is like a rolled-up pizza—thin dough layered with cheese, meats, and sauce, then baked until golden and crispy. Unlike calzones, Stromboli is sliced into portions, making it perfect for sharing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Cheesy: A golden crust wrapped around layers of gooey cheese and savory meats.
- Great for Sharing: Easily slice into portions for the perfect party or game-day snack.
- Customizable Fillings: Switch up the meats and cheeses to your taste!
Ingredients
- Pizza Dough – The foundation of a perfect, crispy Stromboli.
- Marinara Sauce – For dipping (not inside, like a calzone).
- Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully for that perfect cheese pull.
- Provolone Cheese – Adds a creamy, mild sharpness.
- Pepperoni – Classic filling for an authentic Italian-American taste.
- Ham – A delicious salty contrast to the cheese.
- Italian Seasoning – Enhances the flavors of the fillings.
- Egg Wash – Creates a beautiful golden-brown crust.
Note: Measurements will be in the recipe card below.
How to Make a Stromboli
Step 1: Preheat and Roll Out Dough
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface.
Step 2: Layer the Fillings
Evenly spread the mozzarella and provolone cheese over the dough, leaving a small border. Add the pepperoni and ham on top, followed by a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.
Step 3: Roll It Up
Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log, sealing the edges by pinching them shut.
Step 4: Brush and Bake
Transfer the rolled Stromboli to a baking sheet, seam-side down. Brush the top with egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy!
Calzone Recipe
Unlike Stromboli, a calzone is folded in half like a turnover, sealing all the delicious fillings inside. It’s basically a pizza pocket—crispy outside, cheesy and gooey inside!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Handheld & Portable: Perfect for on-the-go meals.
- Sealed-in Goodness: Keeps the cheese and fillings super melty inside.
- Personalized Fillings: Each calzone can be made to individual taste preferences!
Ingredients
- Pizza Dough – The base for your crispy, golden crust.
- Ricotta Cheese – Adds a creamy, traditional touch.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Melts perfectly for that stretchy cheese pull.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty, salty bite.
- Spinach (Optional) – Adds a fresh, slightly bitter contrast.
- Italian Sausage – A flavorful protein option (or use pepperoni, ham, or mushrooms).
- Marinara Sauce – For dipping, not inside the calzone!
- Egg Wash – For that beautiful golden crust.
How to Make a Calzone
Step 1: Preheat and Roll Out Dough
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the pizza dough into a circle, like a small pizza crust.
Step 2: Add the Fillings
On one half of the dough, layer ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and your choice of fillings (spinach, sausage, or other toppings).
Step 3: Fold and Seal
Fold the empty half of the dough over the fillings, creating a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges tightly to seal.
Step 4: Brush and Bake
Brush the top with egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.
Step 5: Serve with Marinara
Let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy!
Stromboli vs Calzone: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Stromboli | Calzone |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Rolled into a log | Folded into a half-moon |
| Serving Style | Sliced into portions | Individual serving |
| Sauce Inside? | No, served on the side | No, served on the side |
| Cheese Used | Mozzarella, provolone | Ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan |
| Origin | Italian-American | Traditional Italian |
Both are delicious, but if you prefer layers of fillings in every bite, go for Stromboli. If you love a pocket of cheesy goodness, a calzone is the way to go!
FAQs
1. Is a Stromboli named after the Stromboli volcano?
No! While Stromboli is a famous volcano in Italy, the dish is actually Italian-American, not from Italy. It was created in the U.S. by Italian immigrants.
2. Can I make a vegetarian version?
Yes! Both Stromboli and calzones can be made vegetarian by using fillings like mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, and cheese.
3. What’s the best dipping sauce?
Marinara sauce is the classic choice, but you can also dip them in garlic butter, Alfredo sauce, or spicy arrabbiata sauce.
4. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble Stromboli or calzones and refrigerate them before baking. Just bake when ready to serve!
Final Thoughts: Stromboli vs Calzone – Which One Will You Try?
Now that you know the difference between calzone and stromboli, which will you make first? Whether you’re craving the crispy layers of Stromboli or the gooey, stuffed goodness of a Calzone, both are guaranteed to satisfy.
One thing’s for sure—whichever you choose, you’ll be making an irresistibly cheesy, comforting Italian classic. Happy cooking! 🍕🔥
Printstromboli vs calzone
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Learn the difference between calzone and stromboli while making both delicious Italian classics at home! Stromboli is a rolled, crispy, and cheesy delight, while a calzone is a perfectly sealed pizza pocket with gooey, stuffed goodness inside. Both are packed with flavor and served with marinara sauce for dipping. Try them today and decide your favorite in the Stromboli vs Calzone showdown!
Ingredients
Stromboli Ingredients:
- 1 pound pizza dough
- ½ cup marinara or pizza sauce (optional, for dipping)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup provolone cheese, sliced
- ½ cup pepperoni slices (or other meats like salami, ham, or sausage)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 egg (for egg wash, mixed with a tablespoon of water)
Calzone Ingredients:
- 1 pound pizza dough
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup cooked fillings (pepperoni, sausage, spinach, mushrooms, etc.)
- 1 egg (for egg wash, mixed with a tablespoon of water)
- ½ cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
Key Differences:
- Stromboli is rolled like a log and sliced, usually with meats and cheeses.
- Calzone is folded like a half-moon, often containing ricotta cheese.
Instructions
-
For the Stromboli:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle.
- Layer mozzarella, provolone, pepperoni, and ham evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning, then roll the dough tightly into a log and seal the edges.
- Transfer to a baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly, slice, and serve with marinara sauce.
For the Calzone:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the pizza dough into a circle.
- On one half of the dough, spread ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- Add Italian sausage or vegetables, then fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges.
- Brush with egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly, then serve warm with marinara sauce.
Notes
- Stromboli is rolled, while calzone is folded—both are delicious but have different textures and serving styles.
- Use store-bought or homemade pizza dough for convenience.
- Add extra toppings like mushrooms, olives, or peppers for customization.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: stromboli vs calzone, stromboli volcano, difference between calzone and stromboli, pizza roll, Italian stuffed bread