Pepperoni Pizza Pockets: A Heartfelt Delight
Introduction
These Pepperoni Pizza Pockets are a delightful blend of convenience and classic pizza flavors! Perfect for a quick meal, game-day treat, or a party favorite, these pockets encapsulate the essence of pizza in a delightful hand-held form. Subscribe now to receive more delicious recipes like this delivered right to your inbox!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Who doesn’t adore a recipe that is both simple to make and delicious to taste? These pizza pockets bring together the savory goodness of pepperoni and cheese within a flaky dough, making them a perfect family-friendly choice. The ease of preparation makes it ideal for busy evenings, while the flavors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Get ready to bite into gooey, cheesy goodness wrapped in a crisp crust that will leave you craving more!
Ingredients
– 1 can refrigerated pizza dough
– 1/2 cup pizza sauce
– 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 package pepperoni slices
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Optional: red pepper flakes, fresh basil for garnish
Necessary Tools
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper
– Rolling pin
– Large round cookie cutter or glass
– Fork
– Pastry brush
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Feel free to customize your pizza pockets! Swap the pepperoni for cooked sausage or veggies like mushrooms and bell peppers. Add some black olives or a handful of spinach for a different take. Love spice? A dash of red pepper flakes inside the filling could add that extra kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface, flattening it to about 1/4-inch thickness with a rolling pin.
3. Use a large round cookie cutter or glass to cut out circles from the dough.
4. Spread a tablespoon of pizza sauce on one half of each dough circle, leaving a border along the edge.
5. Top with mozzarella cheese and a few pepperoni slices.
6. Sprinkle Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese over the top.
7. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges with a fork.
8. Arrange the pizza pockets on the baking sheet, brush with olive oil, and sprinkle with garlic powder.
9. Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
10. Allow to cool slightly, then serve garnished with fresh basil and a dash of red pepper flakes if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these pockets with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, or enjoy them alongside a crisp green salad to balance the flavors. For a hearty meal, pair with a creamy pasta dish or roasted vegetables.
Pro Tips for Success
For the best results, ensure the dough edges are firmly sealed to prevent the cheese from oozing out during baking. Don’t overfill the pockets, as they may burst.
Storing and Reheating
Store any leftover pizza pockets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
FAQ Section
– Can I freeze pizza pockets? Yes, after baking, let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven without thawing.
– Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely! Try provolone or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
Pepperoni Pizza Pockets are a simple yet delightful dish that brings people together over shared love for pizza. Whether as a quick dinner solution or a festive party appetizer, these pockets are sure to impress everyone with their cheesy, savory goodness!
We’d love to see your pizza pocket creations—feel free to leave a review, share photos, or tag us on Pinterest or Instagram.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per pocket: 250 calories, 12g fat, 20g carbohydrates, 14g protein.
