Description
These Homemade Easy Cheesy Pizza Pockets are the ultimate snack or meal! Filled with gooey mozzarella, marinara sauce, and your favorite pizza toppings, these pockets are baked or air-fried to crispy perfection. Easy, quick, and fully customizable, this recipe is perfect for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re craving a cheesy bite for lunch, dinner, or a party snack, these pizza pockets deliver delicious, savory flavor every time.
Ingredients
1 package refrigerated pizza dough (or use crescent roll dough for flakier pockets)
Filling:
1/2 cup marinara or pizza sauce
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup mini pepperoni or cooked sausage (optional)
1/4 cup chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives (optional)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Topping:
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Dried oregano or garlic powder (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat the oven to 400°F (or the air fryer to 375°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll and Cut Dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface. Cut into 4×6-inch rectangles or circles.
- Add the Filling: Spoon 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce onto each piece of dough. Add mozzarella, Parmesan, and any toppings of your choice.
- Seal the Pockets: Fold dough over the filling, pressing the edges with a fork to seal them.
- Bake or Air Fry:
- Oven: Brush with egg wash, sprinkle with oregano or garlic powder, and bake for 15-18 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Brush with egg wash, sprinkle with seasoning, and air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Cool and Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Customize with your favorite pizza toppings like spinach, onions, or jalapeños.
- Use dairy-free cheese and vegan dough for a dairy-free or vegan option.
- For crispy pockets, consider using egg wash and a slightly higher baking temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minute
- Cook Time: 15–18 minutes (Oven) or 8–10 minutes (Air Fryer)
- Category: Snack, Dinner, Party Food
- Method: Baking, Air Frying
- Cuisine: : Italian-American