These Cheesy Pizza Pockets are the ultimate comfort food that combines the cheesy, melty goodness of pizza with the fun of a handheld snack. Perfect for busy weeknights, parties, or an easy lunch, these pockets are both customizable and delicious, making them an instant favorite for both kids and adults. Whether you prefer a classic cheesy filling or like to get creative with toppings, these pockets are a satisfying treat for any pizza lover.

Cheesy Pizza Pockets

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Pizza Pockets are the perfect blend of crispy, golden crust and gooey, cheesy filling. They’re super easy to make with store-bought pizza dough, and you can fill them with your favorite pizza ingredients, from classic pepperoni to vibrant vegetables. The best part? They’re ready in less than 30 minutes, making them ideal for a quick snack or a family-friendly meal. Whether you’re serving them at a party, packing them in lunchboxes, or enjoying them as a weeknight treat, these pizza pockets are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

1 package refrigerated pizza dough (saves time and ensures a flaky crust)

For the Filling:

1 tablespoon marinara or pizza sauce (enhances the flavor with a zesty tomato kick)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (gooey perfection that melts beautifully)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds a nutty depth to each pocket)
1/2 cup mini pepperoni or cooked sausage (optional, a savory addition for meat lovers)
1/2 cup chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives (optional, vibrant veggies for added nutrition and flavor)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (infuses the filling with classic pizza herbs)
1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional, gives just the right amount of heat)

For the Topping:

1 large egg, beaten (ensures a golden, glossy finish)
1 teaspoon dried oregano or garlic powder (dust on top for an aromatic garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (or 375°F if using an air fryer) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Dough: Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. Cut the dough into 4×6-inch rectangles.
Assemble the Pockets: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of marinara or pizza sauce onto the center of each rectangle, leaving space at the edges. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce. Add optional mini pepperoni or chopped veggies if desired. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.
Seal the Pockets: Fold each rectangle over to create a pocket. Seal the edges by pressing them together with a fork.
Brush and Garnish: Brush the tops of the pockets with the beaten egg and sprinkle with dried oregano or garlic powder for extra flavor.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes or until the pockets are golden brown and bubbly. For the air fryer, cook in batches for 8-10 minutes.
Cool and Serve: Let the pizza pockets cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 pockets
Prep Time: 7 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Cooling Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Make Them Veggie: Skip the pepperoni and use only vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for a veggie-packed filling.
Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce inside the pockets for a bit of heat.
Add Cheese Variety: Try mixing different cheeses like provolone, ricotta, or gouda for a unique twist on the classic mozzarella.
Make Them Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pizza dough to make these pockets gluten-free and just as tasty!

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover pizza pockets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes until warm.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pizza dough?

Yes, you can use homemade pizza dough for a more personalized touch. Just roll it out to the same thickness as the refrigerated dough for the best results.

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prepare the pockets up to the point of baking, then store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, pop them in the oven as directed.

Can I make these in the air fryer?

Yes, these pizza pockets work wonderfully in the air fryer! Cook them in batches at 375°F for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Can I freeze these pizza pockets?

Yes, you can freeze these before baking. Simply assemble the pockets, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To bake, cook from frozen at 400°F for 18-20 minutes.

How can I make these more flavorful?

Experiment with different seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or dried basil to elevate the flavor profile. You can also add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top before baking for extra cheesiness.

Conclusion

These Cheesy Pizza Pockets are the perfect comfort food snack that’s both easy to make and utterly delicious. With a gooey cheesy center, crispy crust, and endless possibilities for customization, they’re sure to become a go-to recipe for snacks, lunch, or even dinner. Serve them with marinara for dipping, and enjoy every cheesy bite!