How to Make Cheesy Pizza Pockets
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Lightly flour your surface and roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thickness. You don’t want it too thin or it’ll burst open under all that cheesy pressure.
2. Cut the Dough
Cut the dough into rectangles or circles, about 4–5 inches wide. Think “big enough to fold over comfortably.”
3. Add the Filling
On one half of each piece of dough:
-
Spread a spoonful of pizza sauce (leave a small border around the edges).
-
Add a generous handful of mozzarella.
-
Layer on your toppings.
-
Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the top.
Pro tip: Don’t overfill. I know it’s tempting. But overstuffed pockets = cheese escape.
4. Seal It Like You Mean It
Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon or rectangle.
Press the edges firmly together. Use a fork to crimp the edges for extra security and a classic look.
Poke a small slit on top to let steam escape.
5. Brush & Bake
Brush the tops with beaten egg for that golden finish.
Mix melted butter with garlic powder and brush lightly over the tops. Sprinkle Parmesan and a little extra seasoning.
Bake for 12–18 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
Let them cool slightly before biting in — molten cheese is not patient.
The Secret to Next-Level Pizza Pockets
-
Add a small cube of cream cheese inside for extra creaminess.
-
Use a mix of mozzarella and provolone for better stretch.
-
Brush with garlic butter again after baking for extra shine and flavor.
-
Air fryer option: Cook at 375°F for 8–10 minutes.
Make-Ahead & Freezing
To freeze:
-
Assemble but don’t bake.
-
Freeze on a tray until solid.
-
Transfer to a freezer bag.
Bake from frozen at 375°F for about 20–25 minutes.
Boom. Emergency snack secured.
Why You’ll Keep Making These
They’re customizable.
They’re freezer-friendly.
They’re kid-approved.
They’re adult-approved.
They’re basically edible happiness.
And honestly? There’s something kind of powerful about pulling a tray of golden, homemade pizza pockets out of the oven. It’s cozy. It’s comforting. It’s the kind of food that disappears fast.
If you want, I can also give you a breakfast version, a veggie-loaded version, or a dessert Nutella pizza pocket situation.
