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Homemade Pizza Pockets

Pizza pockets are a delicious and versatile way to enjoy your favorite pizza fillings in a portable, hand-held format. Imagine biting into a crispy, golden crust, only to discover a cheesy, flavorful filling inside. The combination of gooey cheese, savory meats, and aromatic herbs is always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun family cooking activity, or a snack for a party, homemade pizza pockets are the perfect solution. They’re easy to make, customizable, and always a hit.

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Homemade Pizza Pockets

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🍕✨ Grab a bite of comfort with Homemade Pizza Pockets! 😍🧀 Stuffed with gooey cheese, savory sauce, and your favorite toppings, these pockets are the perfect handheld pizza experience. Crispy on the outside, warm and melty on the inside—an irresistible snack or meal! 😋🔥

#HomemadePizzaPockets #PizzaPerfection #CheeseLovers #CrispyAndCheesy #SnackTimeDelight #EasyMeals #HandheldPizza #ComfortFoodFix #QuickAndTasty #FoodieFaves 🍕🧀🔥

  • Total Time: 37-42 minutes

Ingredients

Scale

For the Classic Pizza Calzone:

  • 1 refrigerated classic pizza crust (or homemade dough, if you prefer)
  • ½ cup pizza sauce
  • 1 cup Borden Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
  • 2 oz pepperoni slices
  • 4 oz can sliced black olives, drained

For the Broccoli & Cheddar Cheese Pizza Calzone:

  • 1 refrigerated classic pizza crust
  • ž cup Borden Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
  • Âź cup Borden Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 ½ cups finely chopped broccoli (you can use a frozen bag, thawed)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Before you begin assembling your pizza pockets, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the oven racks in the center of the oven. This temperature ensures that the pizza pockets bake evenly and get a crispy, golden crust.

2. Prepare the Dough

Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. Depending on your desired size, divide the dough into halves or quarters. Each pizza pocket should be around 6-8 inches in diameter.

You can either use store-bought pizza dough or make your own dough from scratch. If you’re using store-bought dough, it will be more convenient and quicker to prepare. However, if you prefer homemade dough, follow your favorite recipe for pizza dough, and let it rise for the recommended amount of time before rolling it out.

Transfer two dough circles to each baking tray. You can also line the trays with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.

3. Assemble the Classic Pizza Calzones

For the classic pepperoni and mozzarella pizza pockets:

  • Spread half of each dough circle with pizza sauce. Make sure not to spread the sauce all the way to the edge, leaving a small border to ensure a nice seal.
  • Top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Use a generous amount to ensure the cheese melts perfectly inside the pocket.
  • Add the pepperoni slices and black olives. These are the classic toppings, but feel free to add any other pizza ingredients you love.
  • Fold the dough over the toppings to form a pocket. Press the edges firmly together with your fingers or a fork to seal them completely. Make sure the edges are well-sealed to prevent any of the filling from spilling out during baking.
  • Cut a few small slits on the top of each pocket so that steam can escape while baking. This will prevent the pockets from puffing up too much and ensure they cook evenly.

4. Assemble the Broccoli & Cheddar Calzones

For the broccoli and cheddar pizza pockets:

  • Brush olive oil over the dough circles and sprinkle with Italian seasoning. This adds extra flavor and a golden finish to the crust.
  • In a medium bowl, combine the chopped broccoli with the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. You can use fresh broccoli or frozen broccoli that’s been thawed and drained.
  • Spoon the broccoli mixture onto one half of each dough circle. Be generous with the filling but leave enough room around the edges to fold and seal.
  • Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal the pockets. Again, make sure the edges are firmly pressed to prevent the filling from spilling out.
  • Cut a few slits on top to allow steam to escape during baking.

5. Bake the Calzones

Place the assembled pizza pockets on the preheated trays. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, swapping the trays halfway through to ensure even cooking. The pockets are done when the crust is golden brown and crispy. You’ll know they’re ready when the dough has turned a beautiful golden color and the filling is hot and melted inside.

Once baked, remove the pizza pockets from the oven and let them cool slightly. Cutting into them right away might cause the cheese and sauce to spill out, so give them a few minutes to set.

Notes

  • Customizable: The beauty of pizza pockets is how customizable they are. You can mix and match fillings according to your preferences. Whether you like classic toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage or prefer healthier options like spinach, tomatoes, and artichokes, you can create a pizza pocket to suit everyone’s tastes.
  • Portable and Fun: Whether you’re enjoying them on-the-go or serving them at a party, pizza pockets are fun to eat. They’re portable and easy to hold, making them perfect for kids and adults alike.
  • Quick and Easy: Homemade pizza pockets are ready in under 45 minutes, making them the perfect solution for busy evenings when you want something hearty but don’t have a lot of time to cook.
  • Perfect for Leftovers: If you have leftover pizza toppings, they make the perfect filling for your pizza pockets. This is a great way to repurpose ingredients and avoid food waste.
  • Author: Rosa
  • Prep Time: 12 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to create the perfect homemade pizza pockets, with a classic pepperoni and mozzarella version as well as a healthier broccoli and cheddar alternative. We’ll also share tips, variations, and suggestions for making these pockets even more delicious. So grab your apron, and let’s get started on a pizza adventure!

Why You’ll Love Homemade Pizza Pockets

Pizza pockets are a great choice for anyone who loves the classic flavors of pizza but wants something that’s quick, easy, and fun to make. Here are some reasons why homemade pizza pockets are sure to become your new go-to meal:

  • Customizable: You can easily modify the fillings to suit everyone’s tastes. Whether you love meat, vegetables, or a combination of both, pizza pockets can be tailored to fit any preference.
  • Portable: These pizza pockets are perfect for eating on the go. They’re ideal for lunchboxes, picnics, or a quick meal during busy evenings.
  • Simple and Easy: With just a few ingredients, you can make a delicious meal in less than 45 minutes. You don’t need any special cooking equipment, making these pizza pockets beginner-friendly.
  • Fun to Make: Assembling the pockets is a fun activity for kids and adults alike. Everyone can customize their own, making it a great family bonding time.
  • Perfect for Leftovers: If you have leftover ingredients from a previous pizza night, you can easily turn them into pizza pockets!

Ingredients for Homemade Pizza Pockets

Making homemade pizza pockets doesn’t require a lot of ingredients, and most of them are likely already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Classic Pizza Calzone:

  • 1 refrigerated classic pizza crust (or homemade dough, if you prefer)
  • ½ cup pizza sauce
  • 1 cup Borden Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
  • 2 oz pepperoni slices
  • 4 oz can sliced black olives, drained

For the Broccoli & Cheddar Cheese Pizza Calzone:

  • 1 refrigerated classic pizza crust
  • ž cup Borden Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
  • Âź cup Borden Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 ½ cups finely chopped broccoli (you can use a frozen bag, thawed)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Pizza Pockets

Making homemade pizza pockets is straightforward, but it requires attention to detail to ensure they turn out perfectly. Below are the step-by-step instructions to create the perfect pizza pockets.

1. Preheat the Oven

Before you begin assembling your pizza pockets, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the oven racks in the center of the oven. This temperature ensures that the pizza pockets bake evenly and get a crispy, golden crust.

2. Prepare the Dough

Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. Depending on your desired size, divide the dough into halves or quarters. Each pizza pocket should be around 6-8 inches in diameter.

You can either use store-bought pizza dough or make your own dough from scratch. If you’re using store-bought dough, it will be more convenient and quicker to prepare. However, if you prefer homemade dough, follow your favorite recipe for pizza dough, and let it rise for the recommended amount of time before rolling it out.

Transfer two dough circles to each baking tray. You can also line the trays with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.

3. Assemble the Classic Pizza Calzones

For the classic pepperoni and mozzarella pizza pockets:

  • Spread half of each dough circle with pizza sauce. Make sure not to spread the sauce all the way to the edge, leaving a small border to ensure a nice seal.
  • Top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Use a generous amount to ensure the cheese melts perfectly inside the pocket.
  • Add the pepperoni slices and black olives. These are the classic toppings, but feel free to add any other pizza ingredients you love.
  • Fold the dough over the toppings to form a pocket. Press the edges firmly together with your fingers or a fork to seal them completely. Make sure the edges are well-sealed to prevent any of the filling from spilling out during baking.
  • Cut a few small slits on the top of each pocket so that steam can escape while baking. This will prevent the pockets from puffing up too much and ensure they cook evenly.

4. Assemble the Broccoli & Cheddar Calzones

For the broccoli and cheddar pizza pockets:

  • Brush olive oil over the dough circles and sprinkle with Italian seasoning. This adds extra flavor and a golden finish to the crust.
  • In a medium bowl, combine the chopped broccoli with the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. You can use fresh broccoli or frozen broccoli that’s been thawed and drained.
  • Spoon the broccoli mixture onto one half of each dough circle. Be generous with the filling but leave enough room around the edges to fold and seal.
  • Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal the pockets. Again, make sure the edges are firmly pressed to prevent the filling from spilling out.
  • Cut a few slits on top to allow steam to escape during baking.

5. Bake the Calzones

Place the assembled pizza pockets on the preheated trays. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, swapping the trays halfway through to ensure even cooking. The pockets are done when the crust is golden brown and crispy. You’ll know they’re ready when the dough has turned a beautiful golden color and the filling is hot and melted inside.

Once baked, remove the pizza pockets from the oven and let them cool slightly. Cutting into them right away might cause the cheese and sauce to spill out, so give them a few minutes to set.

Why These Pizza Pockets Are So Great

Homemade pizza pockets are a fantastic meal because they combine all the flavors you love about pizza—cheese, savory meats, and aromatic herbs—into a hand-held format. Here’s why these pizza pockets stand out:

  • Customizable: The beauty of pizza pockets is how customizable they are. You can mix and match fillings according to your preferences. Whether you like classic toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage or prefer healthier options like spinach, tomatoes, and artichokes, you can create a pizza pocket to suit everyone’s tastes.
  • Portable and Fun: Whether you’re enjoying them on-the-go or serving them at a party, pizza pockets are fun to eat. They’re portable and easy to hold, making them perfect for kids and adults alike.
  • Quick and Easy: Homemade pizza pockets are ready in under 45 minutes, making them the perfect solution for busy evenings when you want something hearty but don’t have a lot of time to cook.
  • Perfect for Leftovers: If you have leftover pizza toppings, they make the perfect filling for your pizza pockets. This is a great way to repurpose ingredients and avoid food waste.

Variations of Pizza Pockets

While the classic pepperoni and mozzarella calzone is delicious, there are many ways to get creative with your pizza pocket fillings. Here are some ideas for variations:

1. Vegetarian Pizza Pockets

For a veggie-packed option, try adding a variety of fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, spinach, and tomatoes. You can also include some olives or artichokes for extra flavor.

2. Chicken and Pesto Pizza Pockets

For a lighter, more flavorful filling, try using grilled chicken and pesto sauce instead of tomato sauce. Combine it with mozzarella and some roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a delicious variation.

3. BBQ Chicken Pizza Pockets

If you love barbecue sauce, try filling your pockets with cooked chicken, BBQ sauce, red onions, and mozzarella cheese. This sweet and smoky combination is sure to please anyone who loves BBQ.

4. Hawaiian Pizza Pockets

For a tropical twist, add diced ham, pineapple, and a bit of mozzarella cheese for a Hawaiian pizza-inspired pocket. This sweet and savory combination is a great way to change things up.

5. Meat Lovers Pizza Pockets

If you’re a fan of all things meaty, go for a meat lover’s pizza pocket by adding pepperoni, sausage, bacon, and ground beef. Pair it with plenty of mozzarella cheese and pizza sauce for a hearty treat.

Tips for the Best Homemade Pizza Pockets

  • Seal the Edges Well: Make sure the edges of the dough are tightly sealed so the fillings don’t spill out during baking.
  • Brush the Dough: Brushing the pizza pockets with olive oil or melted butter before baking will give them a golden, crispy crust.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and freshly chopped vegetables will add the best flavor and texture to your pizza pockets.
  • Bake in Batches: If you’re making a large batch, bake the pizza pockets in batches so they cook evenly.
  • Serve with Dipping Sauces: Marinara, ranch, garlic butter, or even a creamy Alfredo sauce make great dipping options.

Conclusion

Homemade pizza pockets are the perfect solution when you want something quick, delicious, and satisfying. With endless customization options, these pockets can be adapted to suit any taste or dietary preference. Whether you’re making a classic pepperoni and mozzarella pizza pocket or experimenting with a new filling, these hand-held delights are always a hit. They’re easy to make, fun to assemble, and perfect for sharing with family and friends.

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