Introduction
Stromboli is a delightful Italian-American dish that combines the best of pizza and calzone, wrapped up in a golden brown crust. It's versatile enough to be filled with a variety of ingredients, making it a perfect canvas for your culinary creativity. Today, we're putting a spin on this classic with a rich combination of cheesy chicken, turkey bacon, and ranch flavor.
This Cheesy Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Stromboli is not just packed with flavor; it's also a feast for the senses. The aromatic turkey bacon and tender chicken complement the gooey cheese perfectly, while the ranch dressing brings in a tanginess that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
The shredded chicken provides a lean protein base, giving the stromboli its hearty texture. It absorbs flavors well and pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. - 1 cup turkey bacon, chopped
Turkey bacon adds a delightful smokiness and crunchy texture, enhancing the overall flavor profile without overwhelming the dish with fat. - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Mozerella is the go-to cheese for this dish because of its excellent melting qualities, ensuring each bite is gooey and satisfying. - 1/2 cup ranch dressing
Ranch dressing infuses the filling with a creamy, zesty flavor, offering a delicious contrast to the richness of the cheeses and meats. - 1 package pizza dough (about 1 lb)
The pizza dough serves as the outer layer of the stromboli, encasing the filling and providing a crispy, golden-brown crust when baked. - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Garlic powder adds a subtle depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste without overpowering the dish. - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Onion powder brings a sweet, aromatic flavor that complements the garlic and enhances the savory elements of the filling. - 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
The egg wash gives the stromboli a beautiful, golden sheen once baked, making it visually appealing and adding a slight richness to the crust.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Preheating the oven is essential for achieving an evenly baked stromboli. An adequately heated oven ensures that the crust becomes crispy and golden while the filling gets heated through.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped turkey bacon, mozzarella cheese, ranch dressing, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Mixing the filling ingredients in a bowl evenly distributes the flavors throughout the filling. This step is crucial to ensure every bite carries the deliciousness of the ranch, chicken, and bacon.
Step 3: Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface into a rectangular shape.
Rolling out the dough evenly allows for a uniform cooking time and ensures a balanced filling to crust ratio, making for a satisfying bite.
Step 4: Spread the chicken and bacon mixture along one edge of the dough, leaving about an inch of space from the sides.
Positioning the filling along one edge of the dough grants enough space to fold and seal the stromboli. Ensuring it’s not overfilled will prevent spillage during baking.
Step 5: Carefully roll the dough over the filling, tucking it tightly as you go until fully enclosed.
Rolling the dough tightly helps maintain the structure of the stromboli as it bakes. It also ensures that the filling stays contained, preventing messiness.
Step 6: Pinch the ends and seam to seal the stromboli securely.
Sealing the edges prevents the filling from leaking out during baking. This is a critical step to keep all the delicious flavors intact.
Step 7: Place the stromboli seam-side down on a greased baking sheet.
Positioning it seam-side down helps the stromboli retain its shape while baking, allowing for an even cook and an aesthetically pleasing presentation.
Step 8: Brush the top with beaten egg for a shiny finish and optional added flavor.
Applying the egg wash not only enhances the appearance with a glossy finish but also contributes to a slightly richer flavor in the crust.
Step 9: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Baking until golden brown ensures a crispy outer crust while allowing the filling to heat through adequately. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking.
Step 10: Let the stromboli cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Allowing the stromboli to cool slightly before slicing helps the filling set, making it easier to cut without everything spilling out.
Step 11: Serve warm with extra ranch dressing on the side.
Serving with extra ranch enhances the experience, allowing diners to enjoy more of that flavorful dipping sauce, which perfectly complements the cheesy and savory filling.
Flavor Combinations That Wow
The marriage of flavors in Cheesy Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Stromboli is a culinary delight. The savory turkey bacon complements the tender, shredded chicken, while the mozzarella brings a rich creaminess. This trio, enhanced with a zesty ranch dressing, creates a filling that's bursting with flavor, making each slice an exciting taste experience.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This stromboli doesn’t just serve as a meal; it's a centerpiece for gatherings. Whether it’s a family dinner or a game day with friends, it’s easy to slice and share. Its appealing look and mouthwatering aroma draw everyone in, ensuring it’ll be the star of your table. Plus, it pairs beautifully with salads or vegetable sides.
The Art of Stromboli Wrapping
Mastering the art of wrapping stromboli is key to ensuring a perfect culinary creation. Ensuring the filling is contained while rolling tightly prevents leaks and creates a beautiful presentation. With practice, you’ll be able to customize your fillings while maintaining the structure, leading to delicious, perfectly baked results every time.
FAQs
What can I substitute for the turkey bacon?
You can use regular bacon or even pancetta in place of turkey bacon for a richer flavor.
How do I know when my stromboli is done baking?
The stromboli is done when its crust is golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped on the side.
What if my dough is too thick or too thin after rolling?
If your dough is too thick, it might not cook properly. Roll it out thinner; if too thin, you may need to add more dough to achieve a good structure.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, cheddar or pepper jack can be excellent substitutions, adding different flavor profiles to your stromboli.
What if my stromboli filling spills out during baking?
If some filling spills out, it might be due to overfilling. In the future, aim for a moderate amount of filling to avoid this.
Can I use leftovers to make this dish?
Absolutely! Leftover meats and cheeses can work wonderfully in this stromboli, offering a creative way to repurpose food.
Conclusion
Creating a Cheesy Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Stromboli is not just a way to satisfy your hunger – it's an invitation to enjoy the process of cooking and sharing. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this dish will surely impress family and friends alike.
Next time you're in the mood for a satisfying meal that feels special without too much fuss, give this stromboli a try. The combination of ingredients and the simple process make it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.
Recipe Card
Crafting an Ina Garten-Inspired Bacon Potato Frittata
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large oven-safe skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3 minutes until soft.
- Include the diced potatoes and cook for 10-12 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, and pepper, then fold in the cooked bacon and cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture over the sautéed vegetables in the skillet.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until set.
- Let the frittata cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
