Stuffed Italian Bread (Printable Version)

An easy favorite, this golden pizza dough is loaded with meats, melty cheese, and served hot with marinara. A hit for family meals or parties!

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1 prepared pizza dough
02 - 2 tablespoons melted butter, split in half
03 - 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
04 - 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, grated and divided
05 - 12 slices of thin-cut ham
06 - 17 pepperoni slices
07 - 15 slices of salami
08 - 1 egg, whisked
09 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
10 - 2 tablespoons Parmesan, shredded
11 - 2 tablespoons parsley, minced

→ For Dipping

12 - Optional marinara sauce

# Steps:

01 - Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it's ready to bake until golden and crispy.
02 - Work your dough into a rectangle, roughly 12 by 14 inches, on a floured surface. Optionally, shape it directly on parchment paper for easier handling.
03 - Mix the chopped garlic with a tablespoon of melted butter in a small bowl. Apply this evenly across the dough.
04 - Scatter 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella, leaving space along the short sides and one long edge. Stack slices of ham first, then 1/2 cup mozzarella. Place salami and pepperoni slices next, finishing with the rest of the cheese.
05 - Use the egg wash along the dough's exposed edges. Starting with the long side opposite of the washed edge, roll it up tightly like a log. Pinch the ends and seam to seal it in place.
06 - Combine the last 2 tablespoons of butter with chopped parsley, Parmesan, and garlic powder. Spread this mix over the roll. Gently slash shallow cuts across the top every couple of inches with a serrated knife.
07 - Bake the rolled dough on your prepared pizza stone or baking tray for about 25–30 minutes. Look for a lightly browned finish.
08 - Let it rest for five minutes before cutting it into 8 sections. Pair pieces with marinara for dipping if you like.

# Notes:

01 - Grab ready-made dough at the store to save time, or prep your own if that's your thing.
02 - Switch the meats to turkey slices, roast beef, or go vegetarian with cooked spinach and mushrooms.
03 - Try swapping mozzarella with cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or spicy pepper jack.
04 - Sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes or some Italian seasoning in the butter for more zing.