Garlic Butter Stromboli Squares Recipe

Zesty Garlic Butter Stromboli Squares Recipe: A Heavenly Bite

Crafting a mouthwatering garlic butter stromboli squares delight can turn an ordinary meal into a memorable feast.

Layers of soft dough, melted cheese, and aromatic herbs create a sensational treat that beckons you closer.

My kitchen often fills with irresistible aromas when preparing this crowd-pleasing dish.

Crispy edges and a golden-brown surface promise a culinary adventure waiting to happen.

Italian-inspired comfort emerges from simple ingredients blended with love and creativity.

Friends and colleagues always request seconds when these savory squares appear.

Slice into this delectable creation and watch everyone’s eyes light up with anticipation.

Why Garlic Butter Stromboli Squares Always Hit the Spot

  • Unleash Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Packed with savory pepperoni, salami, and a double cheese punch, these stromboli squares guarantee smiles and empty plates at any gathering.
  • Master Stress-Free Cooking: Simple step-by-step instructions make this recipe approachable for cooks of all skill levels, transforming complex Italian-inspired cuisine into an easy kitchen adventure.
  • Customize with Creativity: Switch up meats, add different herbs, or experiment with cheese varieties to make this recipe your own personal culinary signature.
  • Perfect Party Companion: Bite-sized squares are ideal for game days, potlucks, family dinners, and casual get-togethers, ensuring everyone gets a delicious piece of the action.

Everything You Need for Garlic Butter Stromboli Squares

Dough Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: The base foundation that provides structure for the stromboli.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dough.
  • Olive Oil: Adds moisture and helps create a smooth, elastic texture.
  • Active Dry Yeast: Helps the dough rise and develop a light, airy texture.
  • Sugar: Activates and feeds the yeast for proper fermentation.
  • Warm Water: Provides the necessary liquid to activate the yeast.
Filling Ingredients:
  • Marinara Sauce: Adds a rich, tangy base layer to the stromboli.
  • Pepperoni, Salami: Classic Italian meats that provide savory flavor and protein.
  • Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Create a melty, cheesy interior with depth of flavor.
Topping Ingredients:
  • Butter: Creates a rich, golden coating for the stromboli squares.
  • Garlic, Parsley, Oregano: Aromatic herbs and spices that enhance the overall flavor profile.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Seasonings that balance and elevate the taste of the garlic butter.

How to Make Garlic Butter Stromboli Squares Without Stress

Step 1: Awaken the Yeast

In a cozy bowl, sprinkle sugar into warm water and add yeast. Watch as it transforms into a frothy, aromatic mixture that signals the beginning of your culinary adventure.

Step 2: Create the Dough Base

Grab a large mixing bowl and blend flour with salt. Create a welcoming crater in the center, ready to embrace the yeast mixture. Pour in olive oil and the activated yeast, then knead with passion until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Cover the dough and tuck it into a warm, draft-free spot. Allow it to expand and develop flavor for about an hour, watching it double in size with anticipation.

Step 4: Prepare the Flavor Canvas

Crank up the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, creating the perfect stage for your stromboli squares.

Step 5: Build the Flavor Layers

Roll out the dough into a generous rectangle. Spread marinara sauce across the surface, leaving a small border. Add your delicious toppings:
  • Pepperoni
  • Salami
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Parmesan cheese

Step 6: Roll and Shape

Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, sealing the edges with precision. Slice the log into 1-inch thick squares that promise to be bite-sized bundles of joy.

Step 7: Create Garlic Butter Magic

In a small saucepan, melt butter and mix in:
  • Minced garlic
  • Fresh parsley
  • Dried oregano
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Step 8: Brush and Bake

Generously brush the garlic butter over the stromboli squares. Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes until the edges turn golden and the cheese bubbles with excitement.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let the squares rest for 5 minutes. Serve warm, watching as everyone’s eyes light up with delight at these mouthwatering treats.

Smart Tips for Garlic Butter Stromboli Squares Success

  • Boost Yeast Activation: Ensure water temperature is between 100-110°F for perfect yeast bloom, creating a rich, fluffy dough base.
  • Prevent Dough Stickiness: Dust work surface with flour and knead gently to maintain soft, smooth texture without overworking the dough.
  • Maximize Flavor Layers: Spread sauce and toppings evenly, leaving small margins to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
  • Achieve Golden Crust: Brush garlic butter generously before and immediately after baking for a glossy, flavor-packed exterior.
  • Slice Precision Matters: Use a sharp serrated knife and gentle sawing motion to cut clean, uniform stromboli squares without compressing the dough.

Fun Flavor Spins for Garlic Butter Stromboli Squares

  • Spicy Jalapeño Stromboli: Replace pepperoni with sliced jalapeños and add pepper jack cheese for a fiery kick.
  • Mediterranean Veggie Stromboli: Swap meats with roasted red peppers, spinach, and crumbled feta cheese for a vegetarian version.
  • Breakfast Stromboli Squares: Fill with scrambled eggs, bacon bits, and cheddar cheese, creating a morning-friendly breakfast option.
  • Buffalo Chicken Stromboli: Use shredded buffalo chicken, blue cheese crumbles, and drizzle with ranch dressing after baking for a zesty transformation.

Great Pairings for Garlic Butter Stromboli Squares

  • Pair Bold Red Wine: Select a robust Italian red like Chianti or Sangiovese that complements the rich, savory flavors of pepperoni and salami, cutting through the cheese's creaminess with its tangy undertones.
  • Create Crisp Side Salad: Toss fresh arugula with lemon vinaigrette and shaved parmesan to provide a light, zesty contrast against the stromboli's hearty and buttery profile, balancing the meal's richness.
  • Match Tangy Marinara Dipping Sauce: Prepare a quick homemade marinara with fresh basil and roasted garlic, offering an extra layer of flavor that enhances the stromboli's existing sauce and provides a bright, acidic counterpoint.

How to Store Garlic Butter Stromboli Squares the Right Way

  • Store leftover Garlic Butter Stromboli Squares in an airtight container within the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover tightly to prevent moisture loss and maintain optimal texture.
  • Wrap individual stromboli squares in plastic wrap, then place inside a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Freeze for maximum 2 months to preserve flavor and quality.
  • Warm squares in a preheated oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, ensuring they regain crispy edges and melted cheese consistency.
  • Transfer frozen stromboli squares from freezer to refrigerator overnight. Reheat in oven at 350°F for 12-15 minutes until thoroughly warmed and crisp.

Garlic Butter Stromboli Squares Questions Answered

  • Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. After kneading, cover and refrigerate. Let it come to room temperature and rise before rolling out.

  • What if my yeast doesn't foam?

If your yeast mixture doesn’t become foamy, it might be inactive or the water was too hot or cold. Start over with fresh yeast and ensure water is between 100-110°F.

  • How can I prevent the stromboli from unrolling?

When rolling, pinch the seams tightly and seal the edges completely. Place the seam side down on the baking sheet to help maintain the shape.

  • Can I use different meats or cheeses?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap pepperoni and salami with ham, sausage, or bacon.

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Garlic Butter Stromboli Squares Recipe

Garlic Butter Stromboli Squares Recipe


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4.6 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 30-33 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Garlic butter stromboli squares bring Italian-inspired comfort to your kitchen, offering a mouthwatering blend of melted cheese and savory herbs. Crispy edges and gooey center make these squares a perfect shareable appetizer that delivers bold flavor in every delicious bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Dough:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 cup warm water

Filling:

  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 lb pepperoni slices
  • 1/4 lb salami slices
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce

Garlic Butter Topping:

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Activate yeast in warm water with sugar, allowing it to become foamy and fragrant for about 5-7 minutes.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt, creating a well in the center for the yeast mixture.
  3. Pour olive oil and activated yeast into the flour, kneading until a smooth, elastic dough forms, approximately 8-10 minutes.
  4. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  5. Preheat the oven to 425°F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  6. Roll out the dough into a large rectangle, maintaining an even thickness throughout.
  7. Spread marinara sauce across the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
  8. Layer pepperoni and salami evenly over the sauce, followed by a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses.
  9. Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, pinching the seams to seal completely.
  10. Slice the log into 1-inch thick squares and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
  11. Melt butter in a small saucepan, adding minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  12. Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the stromboli squares.
  13. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and cheese becomes bubbly.
  14. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving warm.

Notes

  • Proofing yeast carefully ensures a light, airy dough texture that makes stromboli squares soft and delicious.
  • Use room temperature ingredients to help dough rise consistently and develop better flavor profile.
  • Always seal edges tightly when rolling to prevent filling from leaking during baking, creating messy results.
  • For gluten-free option, substitute regular flour with a high-quality gluten-free blend and add xanthan gum for proper dough structure.
  • Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 14 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Mia Thompson

Mia Thompson

Pastry Chef & Content Creator

Expertise

  • Creating wholesome, seasonal desserts with a focus on nutrition.
  • Developing recipes on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Experimenting with plant-based and gluten-free recipes.​

Education

Portland Community College – Baking and Pastry Arts Program
Specialized in artisanal bread, seasonal desserts, and sustainable baking methods.

National University of Natural Medicine – Bachelor of Science in Nutrition (BScN)
Focused on “Food as Medicine” philosophy, with core threads in nutrition.


Mia’s love affair with baking began in her grandmother’s kitchen, where sneaking spoonfuls of batter first sparked her curiosity. She refined her skills through Portland Community College’s Baking and Pastry Arts Program and her expertise at the National University of Natural Medicine, earning a B.Sc. in Nutrition.
At The Scrumptious Pumpkin, Mia reimagines classics with effortless seasonal treats, healthier twists on old favorites, and playful confections that feel like pure joy. Beyond the oven, she nurtures her urban garden, forages local ingredients around Portland, and leads hands‑on nutrition workshops for her community.

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