These Easy Homemade Cheesy Pizza Pockets are warm, tasty treats filled with gooey cheese and your favorite toppings! Perfect for lunch or a quick snack, they’re a hit with everyone.
Making these pizza pockets is a breeze! I love how I can use whatever leftover veggies or meats I have on hand. Plus, they disappear fast—so make extra if you can! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Active Dry Yeast: This is essential for making the dough rise. If you don’t have it, you can use instant yeast; just mix it directly with the flour without needing to activate it first.
Flour: All-purpose flour works best for a sturdy dough. If you want a healthier option, whole wheat flour can be used. Keep in mind you might need a bit more water.
Pizza Sauce: I love homemade pizza sauce, but store-bought saves time! If you want a twist, barbecue sauce or pesto can also be delicious substitutes.
Cheese: Mozzarella is a must for that stretchy, melty goodness! If you’re in a pinch, any melty cheese like cheddar or provolone can substitute.
Fillings: Get creative with toppings! I like mushrooms, olives, or spinach. If you’re vegetarian, just skip the pepperoni, and you’ll still have a tasty pocket.
How Do You Perfectly Seal Pizza Pockets?
Sealing your pizza pockets well is key to keeping all that cheesy goodness inside. To do this, make sure to:
- Leave a small border around the edge of the dough when adding sauce and toppings.
- Press the edges firmly to remove any air before sealing.
- For extra security, crimp the edges with a fork or pinch them together using your fingers.
This will prevent any filling from leaking during baking, ensuring your pizza pockets are delicious and intact!
Easy Homemade Cheesy Pizza Pockets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (about 2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices or chopped pepperoni (optional)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped bell peppers (optional)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onions (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Additional flour for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes to make. This includes 10 minutes of prep time and about 1 hour to let the dough rise. The baking takes another 15-18 minutes. So, in just a little over an hour, you’ll have warm, cheesy pizza pockets to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar, then sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This means your yeast is active and ready to use!
2. Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the foamy yeast mixture and olive oil, mixing it with a spoon until a dough starts to form.
3. Knead the Dough:
On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This is key to a nice texture! Once done, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, which should take about 1 hour.
4. Prepare for Baking:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
5. Shape the Pizza Pockets:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release excess air. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece on a floured surface into a 6-inch circle.
6. Fill the Pockets:
Spread about 1-2 tablespoons of pizza sauce on one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese, and add any optional toppings like pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, and a dash of oregano or Italian seasoning.
7. Seal the Pockets:
Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-circle. Press the edges firmly to seal them closed. For extra flair, you can crimp the edges with a fork.
8. Egg Wash for Shine:
Beat the egg with a tablespoon of water and brush the mixture over the tops of the pizza pockets. This will give them a beautiful golden crust when baked!
9. Bake and Enjoy:
Carefully place the pizza pockets on the baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Once baked, take them out and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your warm, cheesy pizza pockets!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Store-Bought Dough Instead?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought pizza dough can save you the hassle of making it from scratch. Just roll it out according to package directions and proceed with the filling instructions.
What Other Fillings Can I Use?
You can customize your pizza pockets to include any toppings you like! Try adding cooked sausage, mushrooms, spinach, or even different cheeses. Just be mindful not to overfill them, or they may burst during baking!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pizza pockets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For the best texture, it’s best to reheat them in the oven for a few minutes!
Can I Freeze Pizza Pockets?
Yes, these pizza pockets freeze really well! After baking and cooling, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
