Print

Homemade Easy Cheese Pizza Pockets Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 119 reviews

These homemade easy cheese pizza pockets are a delightful snack or meal option, featuring a crispy golden crust stuffed with gooey mozzarella, tangy tomato sauce, and flavorful toppings like pepperoni and vegetables. Perfectly baked or air-fried for convenience, they offer a deliciously cheesy, handheld treat ideal for any pizza lover.

Ingredients

Dough

  • 1 package of refrigerated pizza dough (alternatively, use puff pastry or croissant dough for a crispier result)

Filling

  • 120 ml tomato or pizza sauce
  • 180 g shredded mozzarella
  • 25 g freshly grated Parmesan
  • 30 g mini pepperoni or cooked bratwurst, diced (optional)
  • 30 g chopped bell pepper, mushrooms, or olives (optional)
  • 1 tsp Italian herbs
  • A pinch of chili flakes (optional)

Topping

  • 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
  • Dried oregano or garlic powder for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (top and bottom heat) or if using an air fryer, set it to 190°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
  2. Prepare the pizza dough: Roll out the pizza dough evenly on a floured surface to prevent sticking. Cut the dough into equal-sized rectangles or circles approximately 10 × 15 cm in size, ensuring uniform pockets for even cooking.
  3. Add the filling: Spread about one tablespoon of tomato or pizza sauce in the center of each dough piece. Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese followed by freshly grated Parmesan. Add diced mini pepperoni or cooked bratwurst along with your choice of chopped bell pepper, mushrooms, or olives. Sprinkle Italian herbs and, if using, a pinch of chili flakes to enhance flavor.
  4. Shape the pockets: Fold the dough over the filling to form a pocket. Secure the edges by pressing firmly with a fork to seal and prevent filling from leaking during baking. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to create a shiny, golden crust. Finally, sprinkle each pocket with dried oregano or garlic powder for an aromatic finish.
  5. Bake: Place the prepared pizza pockets on the lined baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes until they turn golden brown. Alternatively, cook them in the air fryer at 190°C for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
  6. Serve: Allow the pizza pockets to cool for about 5 minutes after baking. Serve warm with extra marinara or pizza sauce on the side for dipping, making a perfect snack or meal that’s sure to please.

Notes

  • You can switch the pizza dough with puff pastry or croissant dough for a flakier and crispier texture.
  • Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite pizza toppings like mushrooms, olives, or different sausages.
  • To freeze, assemble the pockets but do not brush with egg wash, freeze on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
  • If you don’t have an air fryer, stick to the oven method for best results.
  • Make sure to seal the edges well to prevent the filling from leaking out while baking or air frying.

Find it online: https://forkvista.com/homemade-easy-cheese-pizza-pockets-recipe/