Homemade Pizza Pockets

Homemade Pizza Pockets are a fun and easy way to enjoy all the flavors of pizza in a portable, hand-held form. These pizza-filled pockets are made with a soft dough and filled with your favorite pizza toppings, then baked to golden perfection. They’re great for lunches, snacks, or even as a fun dinner for the whole family. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite ingredients to make them your own!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Customizable: Fill with your favorite pizza toppings like pepperoni, sausage, or veggies.
• Handheld: Perfect for on-the-go meals or kids’ lunchboxes.
• Homemade: Freshly made dough and filling means you can control the quality and flavors.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• All-purpose flour: The main ingredient for a soft, chewy dough.
• Active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise and gives it that classic pizza dough texture.
• Sugar: Feeds the yeast to help it activate and rise.
• Salt: Adds flavor to the dough.
• Olive oil: Provides richness and a soft texture to the dough.
• Warm water: Activates the yeast and helps form the dough.

For the Filling:

• Pizza sauce: The base sauce for the filling, providing flavor and moisture.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: The classic melty cheese that makes pizza pockets delicious.
• Pepperoni or sausage: Optional fillings for extra flavor and protein.
• Bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms: Optional veggies for added taste and nutrition.
• Italian seasoning: Adds extra flavor to the filling, with herbs like oregano and basil.
• Garlic powder: For a little extra savory punch in the filling.

For Baking:

• Olive oil or melted butter: Brush over the pizza pockets before baking for a golden, crispy crust.
• Parmesan cheese: Optional, to sprinkle on top for extra flavor.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in the flour, a little at a time, until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. While the dough is rising, prepare your pizza filling. In a bowl, combine the pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and any optional toppings like pepperoni, sausage, bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms.
2. Season the filling with Italian seasoning and garlic powder. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Shape the Pizza Pockets

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal portions.
3. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it into a circle, about 4-5 inches in diameter.
4. Spoon a generous amount of the pizza filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving the edges clear.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and pinch the edges tightly to seal the pocket. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a more secure seal.

Step 4: Bake the Pizza Pockets

1. Place the pizza pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Brush the tops of each pizza pocket with olive oil or melted butter for a golden finish.
3. If desired, sprinkle parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pizza pockets are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling inside.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Allow the pizza pockets to cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Serve with extra pizza sauce for dipping, if desired.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Servings: 8
Calories: 300
Total Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 450mg
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 10g

FAQ

Q1: Can I make these pizza pockets ahead of time?
A1: Yes, you can assemble the pizza pockets in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking.

Q2: Can I freeze the pizza pockets?
A2: Yes, these pizza pockets freeze well. Once baked, allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Q3: What can I substitute for the pizza sauce?
A3: You can use marinara sauce, pesto, or even a white sauce (like Alfredo) for different flavor variations.

Q4: Can I make these pizza pockets with a gluten-free crust?
A4: Yes, you can use gluten-free pizza dough to make these pizza pockets gluten-free.

Q5: Can I use different fillings?
A5: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite pizza toppings like ham, bacon, or different veggies. You can even add some pineapple for a Hawaiian twist!

Q6: Can I bake these pizza pockets in an air fryer?
A6: Yes, you can air fry the pizza pockets! Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

Q7: Can I use store-bought dough?
A7: Yes, you can use store-bought pizza dough if you’re short on time. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the package.

Q8: Can I make these pizza pockets with vegetarian ingredients?
A8: Yes, you can fill them with vegetarian ingredients such as bell peppers, olives, mushrooms, and spinach.

Q9: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A9: Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a blend of cheeses for different flavors.

Q10: How do I know when the pizza pockets are done?
A10: The pizza pockets are done when the dough is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly. You can check the internal temperature to be sure it reaches at least 165°F (74°C).

Enjoy your Homemade Pizza Pockets, and feel free to get creative with the fillings!

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