Homemade Pizza Pockets

Introduction

These delicious homemade pizza pockets are the ultimate treat for pizza lovers! They’re incredibly versatile, easy to make, and perfect for busy weeknights, parties, or a fun family meal. Whether you prefer the classic pepperoni and mozzarella filling or the healthier broccoli and cheddar option, these pizza pockets are sure to satisfy your cravings.

I recently made these pizza pockets for a family gathering, and they were an instant hit! The kids loved the cheesy, gooey filling, while the adults appreciated the homemade touch. We ended up with a delightful variety, and everyone got to customize their own pockets, making it a fun and interactive dinner. If you’re looking for a meal that combines convenience with deliciousness, look no further!

Ingredients

For the Classic Pizza Pockets:

• 1 refrigerated classic pizza crust
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 oz pepperoni slices
• 4 oz can sliced black olives, drained

For the Broccoli & Cheddar Pizza Pockets:

• 1 refrigerated classic pizza crust
• 3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 1/2 cups finely chopped broccoli (from a 12 oz frozen bag, thawed)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the oven racks in the middle. Grease two baking sheets or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Prepare the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, divide the pizza dough in half. Roll each half into a circle about 6-8 inches in diameter. Transfer two dough circles to each baking sheet, ensuring they have enough space to expand during baking.

Assemble the Classic Pizza Pockets

1. Spread pizza sauce over half of each dough circle.
2. Add mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, and black olives on top of the sauce.
3. Fold the dough over to form a pocket and press the edges together with your fingers or a fork to seal.
4. Cut a few small slits in the top for steam to escape during baking.

Assemble the Broccoli & Cheddar Pizza Pockets

1. Brush olive oil over the dough circles and sprinkle with Italian seasoning for added flavor.
2. In a medium bowl, mix the chopped broccoli with the cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
3. Place the broccoli mixture onto one half of each dough circle, then fold the dough over to form a pocket.
4. Press the edges to seal and cut a few slits in the top.

Bake

Bake for 25-30 minutes, swapping the trays halfway through baking, until the crust is golden brown and crispy. Let the pizza pockets cool slightly before serving to allow the cheese to set.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 (varies by filling)
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 15g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm with extra pizza sauce for dipping.
• Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Offer a variety of dipping sauces like ranch or garlic butter.
• Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for those who enjoy a kick.
• Encourage guests to create their own pizza pockets with different fillings!

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor.
2. Experiment with Fillings: Try adding different meats like sausage or bacon, or go vegetarian with mushrooms and bell peppers.
3. Make Ahead: Prepare the pockets in advance, then freeze them uncooked. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
4. Monitor Baking: Keep an eye on the pockets during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning.
5. Customize for Dietary Needs: Use gluten-free pizza crust or dairy-free cheese for a healthier or allergy-friendly option.

Recipe Variations

• Meat Lovers: Include sausage, ham, or cooked ground beef along with the classic fillings.
• Veggie Delight: Use a mix of vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.
• Buffalo Chicken: Add cooked shredded chicken mixed with buffalo sauce and cream cheese for a spicy twist.
• Dessert Pizza Pockets: For a sweet version, fill with Nutella and banana slices, then bake and sprinkle with powdered sugar.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a mixed green salad or coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve with a side of marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
• Include fruit slices or a fruit salad for a light dessert option after the meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Prepare the pizza pockets and freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
• Refrigeration: Store cooked pizza pockets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use homemade pizza dough?

• Yes, homemade pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe!

1. What if I don’t have pizza sauce?

• You can use marinara sauce or even pesto as a substitute.

1. How can I make these pizza pockets vegan?

• Use vegan pizza dough, cheese, and fillings to make a delicious vegan version.

1. Can I bake these on a stone?

• Yes, a pizza stone can help achieve a crispier crust. Preheat the stone in the oven before placing the pockets on it.

1. What other cheeses work well?

• Provolone, gouda, or pepper jack can all add unique flavors to your pizza pockets.

1. Can I add extra spices to the dough?

• Absolutely! Adding Italian herbs to the dough can enhance the flavor.

1. How do I know when the pizza pockets are done?

• They should be golden brown and crispy. You can check the internal temperature; it should be around 165°F.

1. Can I make mini pizza pockets?

• Yes, simply divide the dough into smaller pieces for bite-sized pockets.

1. What’s the best way to reheat leftover pizza pockets?

• Reheat in the oven to restore the crispiness, or microwave for a quick option.

1. How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
   • Make sure to seal the edges tightly and avoid overfilling the pockets.

Conclusion

Homemade pizza pockets are not only delicious but also a fun way to get the whole family involved in meal prep. With endless possibilities for fillings and the convenience of being able to make them ahead of time, these pockets are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them on a cozy night in, these gooey, cheesy delights will satisfy any pizza craving!

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