Homemade Easy Cheese Pizza Pockets Recipe
These homemade easy cheese pizza pockets are a delicious and convenient snack or meal. Filled with a blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, tomato sauce, and optional toppings like pepperoni and vegetables, they are perfect for a quick bite. Baked to golden perfection with a crisp crust, they can be prepared with refrigerated dough and enjoyed warm with extra marinara sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 package refrigerated pizza dough
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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 200°C (top and bottom heat) or the air fryer to 190°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Dough: Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough evenly on a floured surface. Cut the dough into equal-sized rectangles or circles about 10 by 15 centimeters.
- Add Filling: Spread 1 tablespoon of tomato or pizza sauce in the center of each dough piece. Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and freshly grated Parmesan over the sauce. Add mini pepperoni or cooked bratwurst and chopped vegetables if desired. Sprinkle with Italian herbs and a pinch of chili flakes for added flavor.
- Shape Pockets: Fold the dough over the filling to create pockets and seal the edges well using a fork to prevent leakage. Brush the tops with the beaten egg and sprinkle dried oregano or garlic powder for garnish.
- Bake: Bake the pockets in the preheated oven for 18 minutes until golden brown. Alternatively, cook in the air fryer at 190°C for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Serve: Let the pizza pockets cool for 5 minutes to set. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- You can substitute the refrigerated pizza dough with puff pastry or croissant dough for a crispier texture.
- Feel free to customize fillings with your favorite vegetables or meats.
- Brush the dough edges with water before sealing to help them stick better.
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of chili flakes or add hot sauce to the filling.
- If you prefer, prepare these in an air fryer for a quicker cooking time and a crispy crust.
