Homemade Easy Cheesy Pizza Pockets

by

If you’re craving pizza but want something quick, easy, and portable, Homemade Easy Cheesy Pizza Pockets are the perfect solution. These delicious pockets are filled with gooey melted cheese, tangy pizza sauce, and your favorite pizza toppings—all wrapped in a golden, crispy dough. Whether you’re making them for a snack, lunch, or dinner, these pizza pockets are a hit with both kids and adults alike!

The best part? You can customize them to suit your tastes, from classic pepperoni to veggies, or even make them vegetarian-friendly. Plus, they’re simple to make with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

  • 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade pizza dough)

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or a cheese blend)

  • 1/4 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)

  • 1/4 cup pepperoni slices (optional)

  • 1/4 cup diced bell peppers (optional)

  • 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)

  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the pizza pockets from sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Pizza Dough

  1. Open the can of refrigerated pizza dough and unroll it onto a flat surface. If you’re using homemade dough, roll it out into a thin rectangle or circle.

  2. Cut the dough into 4-6 equal squares or circles, depending on the size of the pizza pockets you want.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza Pockets

  1. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce onto the center of each dough square.

  2. Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella cheese over the sauce.

  3. Add any optional toppings such as pepperoni, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

  4. Sprinkle dried oregano, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper on top of the fillings.

  5. Fold the dough over the filling to create a pocket, pressing the edges together firmly to seal it. Use a fork to crimp the edges and ensure the pocket stays closed while baking.

Step 4: Bake the Pizza Pockets

  1. Place the sealed pizza pockets onto the prepared baking sheet.

  2. Brush the tops of the pockets with olive oil to help them turn golden brown and crispy.

  3. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the pockets are golden brown and the cheese is melted inside.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Once baked, remove the pizza pockets from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.

  2. Optionally, sprinkle with freshly chopped basil or parsley for extra flavor and color.

  3. Serve with extra pizza sauce or ranch dressing for dipping, and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Pizza Pockets:

  1. Use a Rolling Pin: If your pizza dough isn’t rolling out easily, use a rolling pin to get the dough thinner and more uniform. This helps with making the pockets crispier when baking.

  2. Customize the Filling: You can fill the pizza pockets with anything you like! Try adding cooked sausage, onions, or even pineapple for a Hawaiian twist. You can make them vegetarian by using just cheese and veggies, or go classic with pepperoni and cheese.

  3. Make Them Smaller: If you’re serving these as appetizers or snacks, feel free to make the pockets smaller. Just adjust the baking time to ensure they cook through.

  4. Use Store-Bought Dough: If you’re in a hurry, using store-bought pizza dough is a real time-saver. However, if you have the time, homemade pizza dough adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.

  5. Freeze for Later: These pizza pockets freeze wonderfully! Assemble them, but before baking, place them on a baking sheet in the freezer for an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, bake straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions:

  • With a Side Salad: Serve your pizza pockets with a fresh salad on the side, such as a simple green salad or a Mediterranean salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives.

  • For Parties: These pizza pockets make a great party snack. Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces like marinara, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.

  • As a Lunch or Dinner: Pair the pizza pockets with a side of vegetable sticks (carrots, cucumbers, and celery) and your favorite dip for a fun, complete meal.

Conclusion:

Homemade Easy Cheesy Pizza Pockets are a quick, fun, and customizable snack or meal that everyone will love. With gooey cheese, flavorful pizza sauce, and endless filling options, these pizza pockets are a great way to satisfy your pizza cravings without the mess of a full pizza. They’re perfect for busy weeknights, parties, or anytime you want a cheesy, handheld treat. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the deliciousness!