Homemade Easy Cheesy Pizza Pockets

Homemade Easy Cheesy Pizza Pockets are the ultimate handheld snack or meal, perfect for pizza lovers of all ages. Made with simple ingredients, these pockets are filled with melty cheese, savory tomato sauce, and your favorite pizza toppings. Whether you’re craving a quick lunch, a party appetizer, or a fun dinner, these cheesy pizza pockets are easy to make and delicious every time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Homemade Easy Cheesy Pizza Pockets are the perfect solution when you’re craving pizza but don’t want to deal with the hassle of making a full pizza. The homemade dough is soft and buttery, and the cheesy filling melts perfectly inside. Plus, you can customize these pockets with your favorite pizza toppings, making them a versatile and fun dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them for game night, lunch, or dinner, these pizza pockets will satisfy your pizza cravings in no time!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast

• 1/2 teaspoon sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup warm water

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Filling:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup pizza or marinara sauce

• 1/4 cup pepperoni slices, chopped (optional)

• 1/4 cup sliced olives (optional)

• 1/4 cup bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)

• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano (optional, for extra flavor)

For Brushing:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir well and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy.

2. Make the Dough: In a larger bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir to combine, then knead the dough for 5-7 minutes on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic.

3. Let it Rise: Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl, covering it with a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Assemble the Pizza Pockets:

4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

5. Prepare the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten it into a small circle, about 4-5 inches in diameter.

6. Add the Filling: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce onto the center of each dough circle, spreading it out slightly, leaving a border around the edges. Add about 2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese, and top with your desired pizza toppings (pepperoni, olives, bell peppers, etc.).

7. Seal the Pockets: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, then press the edges together with your fingers or a fork to seal the pockets tightly.

8. Brush with Oil: Place the pizza pockets on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder (optional) for extra flavor and a golden finish.

Bake:

9. Bake the Pockets: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and crispy.

10. Serve: Let the pizza pockets cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Serve them with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 pizza pockets

• Prep time: 15 minutes (plus 1-hour rise time)

• Cook time: 12-15 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Use vegetables like mushrooms, onions, or spinach as your filling for a vegetarian twist.

• Cheesy Spinach: Add cooked spinach and ricotta cheese for a creamy, cheesy spinach filling.

• BBQ Chicken: Replace the pizza sauce with BBQ sauce and add cooked chicken for a BBQ chicken version.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover pizza pockets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 30-45 seconds, though the crust may not be as crispy.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dough for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute store-bought pizza dough for homemade dough if you prefer a quicker option. Just follow the instructions on the dough package for rolling and baking.

Can I freeze these pizza pockets?

Yes! You can freeze the assembled, unbaked pizza pockets. Simply freeze them on a baking sheet and once they’re frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, you can bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While mozzarella is the traditional choice, you can use cheddar, provolone, or even a combination of your favorite cheeses for a unique flavor.

Can I make these pizza pockets ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and assemble the pizza pockets ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for up to 1 day before baking. Just let them come to room temperature before baking, or increase the baking time slightly.

How can I make the dough gluten-free?

To make these pizza pockets gluten-free, use a gluten-free pizza dough or flour blend. Make sure your toppings are also gluten-free, as some packaged ingredients may contain gluten.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Ensure the edges of the dough are tightly sealed to keep the filling inside. If necessary, crimp the edges with a fork to secure them more firmly.

Conclusion

Homemade Easy Cheesy Pizza Pockets are a fun and delicious way to enjoy pizza in a portable form. With a cheesy, flavorful filling and a soft, golden crust, they make the perfect snack or meal. Whether you’re hosting a party, feeding a hungry family, or craving a savory treat, these pizza pockets are sure to be a hit. Customizable, easy to make, and utterly satisfying, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy your cheesy, handheld pizza pockets today!