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- 1 package refrigerated pizza dough - 1 cup marinara sauce - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup diced pepperoni or substitutes - 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers - 1/4 cup finely chopped onions - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 egg for egg wash - Salt and pepper to taste The key to making great cheesy pizza pockets is using fresh, quality ingredients. I love starting with refrigerated pizza dough. It saves time and tastes great. You can find this in any grocery store. For the sauce, I recommend marinara. You can use homemade or store-bought. Both work well. The marinara adds a nice tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with cheese. Now, let’s talk cheese! I use shredded mozzarella. It melts beautifully and gives that classic pizza taste. You can mix it up with other cheeses, too, if you like. Next, you’ll want to add some fillings. I often use diced pepperoni, but you can swap it for cooked sausage or veggies. Bell peppers add color and a sweet crunch. Finely chopped onions bring a touch of sweetness, too. Don't forget the olive oil! It helps the dough get that nice golden color when baked. An egg wash adds a shiny finish. A sprinkle of salt and pepper ties everything together. These ingredients make your pizza pockets delightful and tasty. They are sure to please everyone at your table! {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. Preheating the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is key for crispiness. 2. Preparing the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will stop the pizza pockets from sticking. 1. Rolling out the pizza dough: On a clean, floured surface, roll out the refrigerated pizza dough. Aim for a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. 2. Mixing the filling ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella, diced pepperoni, sliced bell peppers, chopped onions, dried oregano, garlic powder, and salt and pepper. Stir until all is mixed well. 1. Filling and sealing the dough: Cut the dough into squares, each about 4x4 inches. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each square. Avoid overfilling to keep them neat. 2. Applying the egg wash: Fold the dough over the filling to make a triangle. Press the edges to seal tightly. Crimp with a fork for a nice design. 1. Baking time and temperature: Place the pockets on the lined baking sheet. Bake them for 12 to 15 minutes. They should turn golden brown when done. 2. Cooling and serving instructions: After baking, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping. You can make pizza pockets your own by changing the fillings. If you love veggies, skip the meat and add more bell peppers or mushrooms. For meat lovers, mix in diced sausage or bacon. You can also try different cheeses like cheddar or provolone for unique flavors. You can bake your pizza pockets in the oven or use an air fryer. Baking gives a nice, even cook, while air frying can make them crispier. To get a crunchy crust, make sure to roll the dough thin and preheat your cooking device. Brush olive oil on the outside of the pockets before cooking for extra crunch. Dipping sauces make pizza pockets even better. Marinara sauce is a classic choice. You could also try ranch or garlic sauce. For a fun presentation, serve the pockets on a colorful plate. Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color. A small bowl of sauce in the center can make it look fancy and inviting. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese. This will enhance the taste and texture of your pizza pockets. Experiment with Fillings: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Try adding different meats, cheeses, or even fruits like pineapple for a unique twist on the filling. Make Ahead: These pizza pockets can be prepared in advance and frozen. Simply bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Perfect the Seal: Ensure the edges of the dough are sealed tightly to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking. Crimping with a fork helps secure the pockets. {{image_4}} For those who need gluten-free options, you can use gluten-free pizza dough. Many brands offer good choices at stores. Just make sure to check the package for any special instructions. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty pizza pockets. If you prefer vegan options, swap out cheese for plant-based cheese. Use a rich tomato sauce and load up on your favorite veggies. Ingredients like mushrooms, spinach, and onions add great flavor. You can even mix in some nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste. To switch up the flavors, try different sauces. Instead of marinara, use pesto, barbecue sauce, or even ranch dressing. Each sauce brings a unique taste that can change the whole dish. For more filling ideas, think outside the box. Add veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. You can also use cooked chicken or even beans for protein. Mixing in different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack can add a fun twist. You can make mini pizza pockets for fun appetizers at parties. Just cut the dough into smaller squares. They’re perfect for dipping in sauce. If you want something to share, make large pizza pockets. Fill them with more ingredients and cut them into wedges. These are great for family dinners or gatherings. Serve them warm with a side of marinara for dipping. To store leftover pizza pockets, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container. You can also wrap them in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. When you want to eat them again, just take out what you need. For freezing pizza pockets, first cool them completely like before. Then, place each pocket in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour until firm. After that, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. They can last for up to two months. When reheating pizza pockets, you want to keep them crispy. The oven works best for this. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pizza pockets on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. You can also use an air fryer. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 5-7 minutes. This keeps the crust crispy. Enjoy your delicious leftovers! Yes, you can! Homemade dough has a fresh taste. It allows you to control the ingredients. You can adjust thickness and flavor to your liking. Store-bought dough is quick and easy, but it may lack that homemade charm. If you have time, try making your own. It can be a fun project! To get a crunchy texture, follow these tips: - Roll the dough thinly to allow for a crisp crust. - Brush the tops with olive oil before baking. - Bake at a high temperature, like 425°F (220°C). - Bake until golden brown, about 12 to 15 minutes. These steps will help your pizza pockets turn out perfectly crispy. You have many options for sauce: - Pesto adds a fresh, herby taste. - BBQ sauce gives a sweet and tangy kick. - Alfredo sauce offers a creamy texture. - Hummus or ranch dressing can be fun dips. Try different sauces to find your favorite flavor! Pizza pockets can last: - In the refrigerator: 3 to 4 days if stored in an airtight container. - In the freezer: Up to 2 to 3 months. Wrap them well to prevent freezer burn. Reheat them properly to enjoy their deliciousness again. Pizza pockets are fun and easy to make. You need just a few main ingredients like dough, sauce, and cheese. Mix your favorite fillings and seasonings, then roll, fill, and bake. You can customize them for any diet or preference. In short, you can create tasty treats at home. Use the tips to keep them crispy and flavorful. Enjoy experimenting with different styles and flavors. You now have all the tools to make great pizza pockets that everyone will love!

Cheesy Pizza Pockets Delight

Delicious pizza pockets filled with cheese, pepperoni, and vibrant vegetables, perfect for a snack or meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 package refrigerated pizza dough
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 cup diced pepperoni
  • 0.5 cup sliced bell peppers
  • 0.25 cup finely chopped onions
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 egg for egg wash
  • to taste salt and pepper

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the refrigerated pizza dough to form a large rectangle, approximately 1/4 inch thick. Cut the dough into squares, each about 4x4 inches.
  • In a medium-sized bowl, combine the marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, diced pepperoni, sliced bell peppers, finely chopped onions, dried oregano, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
  • Take a square of dough and place a generous spoonful of the filling mixture in the center. Avoid overfilling.
  • Fold the dough square over the filling to create a triangle shape. Press the edges firmly to seal, then use a fork to crimp the edges.
  • In a small bowl, beat the egg until well blended. Brush the egg wash over the top of each pocket.
  • Transfer the sealed pizza pockets to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
  • Allow the pizza pockets to cool for a few minutes before serving warm with extra marinara sauce on the side.

Notes

For an inviting presentation, serve the pizza pockets on a rustic wooden board or a vibrant plate. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a light sprinkle of Italian seasoning to add color and aroma.
Keyword appetizer, cheese, easy, pizza, snack