These Homemade Easy Cheesy Pizza Pockets are the ultimate handheld snack—crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and bursting with classic pizza flavor. Think of them as mini calzones or upgraded pizza rolls, but with the freedom to customize every bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping for a party, or just craving something warm and cheesy, these pockets deliver satisfaction in under 30 minutes. The best part? You can fill them with anything your heart desires—from pepperoni and mozzarella to sautéed veggies or spicy sausage. They’re freezer-friendly, kid-approved, and totally addictive.
Ingredients:
- 1 package refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade if you’re feeling ambitious)
- ½ cup pizza sauce (thick marinara or your favorite pasta sauce)
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup pepperoni slices (or any toppings you love: mushrooms, olives, sausage, etc.)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Olive oil or melted butter, for brushing
- Parmesan cheese, for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Roll and Cut the Dough
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, about ¼-inch thick.
- Cut the dough into 8 equal rectangles (or adjust based on your desired pocket size).
3. Fill the Pockets
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce onto the center of each dough piece.
- Top with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Add pepperoni slices or your chosen toppings.
- Sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder and Italian seasoning over the filling.
4. Seal and Shape
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a pocket.
- Press the edges together tightly to seal—use a fork to crimp for extra security and a decorative touch.
- Brush the tops with egg wash for a golden finish.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Place the pockets on your prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the tops with olive oil or melted butter.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and a little more Italian seasoning if desired.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is bubbling inside.
6. Cool and Serve
- Let the pockets cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve with extra pizza sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or veggie sticks for a balanced meal.
- Serve on a platter with dipping sauces for a party-friendly appetizer.
- Add a side of garlic butter or hot sauce for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes to keep the crust crispy.
- Freeze baked pockets for up to 2 months—reheat straight from frozen for a quick snack.
Tips & Variations:
- Veggie Lovers: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, or spinach.
- Meat Feast: Try cooked sausage, bacon bits, or shredded chicken.
- Cheese Explosion: Mix mozzarella with cheddar, provolone, or ricotta.
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes inside.
- Mini Version: Cut smaller squares for bite-sized party snacks.
These pizza pockets are a blank canvas for your creativity, My. Want to try a version with pineapple and ham next? Or maybe a breakfast twist with scrambled eggs and cheese? I’ve got ideas that’ll keep your oven busy and your taste buds happy 😋