Name: Pepperoni Pizza Pockets Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 pie crust; 1¼ cups Mozzarella cheese; 1 cup Pepperoni slices; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 egg

This pepperoni pizza pockets recipe is a fun way to enjoy the flavors of a classic pizza with a twist. It's a great snack or lunch option, easy to make, and deliciously satisfying. The crispy pie crust wraps around a filling of gooey mozzarella and spicy pepperoni, all dipped in a tangy marinara sauce. This recipe is guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Photos of Pepperoni Pizza Pockets Recipe

The ingredients for this recipe are quite standard and can be found in most kitchens. However, if you don't usually bake, you might need to pick up a pie crust. They are usually found in the freezer section of the supermarket. If you prefer, you can make your own from scratch. Also, consider buying quality pepperoni for better flavor, which can be located in the deli section.

Ingredients for Pepperoni Pizza Pockets

Pie crust: This is the base of the pizza pockets, providing a crispy exterior.

Mozzarella cheese: This gives the pockets their gooey, cheesy texture and rich flavor.

Pepperoni slices: These add a deliciously spicy and meaty flavor to the pockets.

Marinara sauce: This is used for dipping, adding a tangy, tomato-based counterpoint to the rich cheese and pepperoni.

Egg: The egg is used as an egg wash to give the pockets a shiny, golden-brown finish.

One reader, Kerr Roland says:

These pepperoni pizza pockets are a game-changer! The crust is perfectly flaky, and the gooey mozzarella and zesty pepperoni create a mouthwatering combination. The recipe is easy to follow, and the end result is a delicious treat that's perfect for any occasion. Highly recommend trying it out!

Kerr Roland

Essential Techniques for Making Pepperoni Pizza Pockets

How to roll out pie crust: Roll the pie crust out into a 12-inch circle on a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to achieve an even thickness.

How to cut out shapes: Use a 4-inch cookie cutter to cut out 6 shapes from the rolled pie crust. Gather the dough scraps and re-roll the dough to cut out 6 more shapes.

How to assemble pizza pockets: Sprinkle cheese evenly over the crust shapes, top with pepperoni slices, leaving a small border around the edges. Brush the edges with beaten egg, then place the remaining crust shapes on top and crimp the edges shut with a fork.

How to create designs: Use a paring knife to cut lines in the top for a standard pizza pocket. For a jack-o-lantern design, carefully cut out eyes and a mouth using a paring knife.

How to bake pizza pockets: Bake the assembled pizza pockets at 350 degrees F for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown. Serve immediately with marinara sauce for dipping.

How To Make Pepperoni Pizza Pockets

Satisfy your pizza cravings with these homemade pepperoni pizza pockets. The crust is layered with flavorful pizza toppings with a side of marinara sauce.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1pie crust9-inch, homemade or store bought
1¼cupsmozzarella cheeseshredded
1cuppepperoni slices
1cupmarinara sauce
1egg

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Place the pie crust on a lightly floured surface. Roll the crust out into a 12-inch circle.
Use a 4-inch cookie cutter to cut out 6 of your desired shapes. Transfer the shapes to a sheet pan lined with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper.
Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the 6 crust shapes. Top with slices of pepperoni to cover, leaving a small border around the edges.
Beat the egg in a small bowl. Brush the egg along the border of the dough.
Gather the dough scraps and re-roll the dough to a similar thickness. Cut out 6 more of your shapes. Lay the shapes on top of the pepperoni layer. Use a fork to crimp the edges shut.
For a standard pizza pocket, use a paring knife to cut a few lines in the top. For a jack-o-lantern, use a paring knife to carefully cut out eyes and a mouth.
Brush the tops of the pizza pockets with the egg wash. The pockets can be baked immediately or covered loosely with plastic wrap and stored in the fridge.
Bake the pizza pockets for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown. Serve immediately with a marinara sauce for dipping.

Nutrition

Calories: 559.07kcal
Fat: 40.70g
Saturated Fat: 17.96g
Trans Fat: 0.62g
Monounsaturated Fat: 14.57g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.32g
Carbohydrates: 24.21g
Fiber: 1.48g
Sugar: 2.99g
Protein: 22.94g
Cholesterol: 115.10mg
Sodium: 1395.41mg
Calcium: 339.27mg
Potassium: 323.34mg
Iron: 1.57mg
Vitamin A: 132.64µg
Vitamin C: 1.14mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Pepperoni Pizza Pockets

To ensure your pizza pockets are sealed properly and don't leak, press the edges firmly with a fork. This not only creates a decorative edge, but also helps to seal the two layers of dough together. Additionally, the small vent holes cut into the top of the pockets allow steam to escape during baking, preventing the pockets from bursting open. For a fun twist, you can also cut out shapes like eyes and a mouth to resemble a jack-o-lantern, making this a great recipe for Halloween.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Pepperoni Pizza Pockets

Prep ahead: Prepare the pizza pocket filling and dough in advance, then assemble and bake when ready to serve for a quick and easy meal.

Use store-bought dough: Save time by using pre-made pie crust or pizza dough for the pockets instead of making the dough from scratch.

Batch cooking: Make a large batch of pizza pockets and freeze them for later use, allowing you to have a convenient meal ready to go at any time.

Customize fillings: Experiment with different fillings and ingredients to create a variety of pizza pockets to suit different tastes and preferences.

Efficient assembly: Streamline the assembly process by setting up a production line for filling and sealing the pizza pockets, making the process quicker and more organized.

Substitute Ingredients For Pepperoni Pizza Pockets Recipe

pepperoni slices - Substitute with sliced salami: Sliced salami can provide a similar savory and slightly spicy flavor to pepperoni, making it a suitable substitute for the pizza pockets.
marinara sauce - Substitute with tomato sauce mixed with Italian seasoning: Tomato sauce mixed with Italian seasoning can replicate the flavor profile of marinara sauce and provide a delicious base for the pizza pockets.

Presentation Ideas for Pepperoni Pizza Pockets

Elevate the pizza pockets: Carefully arrange the pizza pockets on a sleek, rectangular plate, ensuring they are evenly spaced and presented with finesse.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a delicate arrangement of freshly chopped basil and oregano over the pizza pockets to add a pop of color and a burst of aromatic flavor.
Drizzle with aged balsamic reduction: Create an artistic drizzle of aged balsamic reduction on the plate, adding a touch of sophistication and depth of flavor to the presentation.
Accompany with a side of arugula salad: Serve the pizza pockets alongside a vibrant arugula salad dressed with a light lemon vinaigrette, providing a refreshing contrast to the savory pockets.
Enhance with edible flowers: Adorn the plate with edible flowers such as pansies or nasturtiums, adding an elegant and visually stunning element to the presentation.
Sprinkle with Parmigiano-Reggiano: Finely grate Parmigiano-Reggiano over the pizza pockets just before serving, adding a touch of richness and complexity to the dish.
Serve on a rustic wooden board: For a more rustic presentation, arrange the pizza pockets on a wooden board, creating a cozy and inviting aesthetic.
Accent with microgreens: Artfully place a small cluster of vibrant microgreens on top of the pizza pockets, adding a burst of freshness and a refined touch to the presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Pizza Pockets

Oven: Used for baking and cooking food by surrounding it with dry heat.
Rolling pin: Used to flatten and shape dough for various recipes.
Baking sheet: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking in the oven.
Cookie cutter: Used to cut out shapes from rolled-out cookie dough or pastry.
Silicone baking mat: A non-stick baking surface used to line baking sheets or pans.
Paring knife: A small, sharp knife used for cutting and trimming fruits and vegetables.
Fork: Used for crimping the edges of dough to seal the filling inside.
Sheet pan: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking and roasting in the oven.
Food brush: Used for applying egg wash or oil to the surface of food before baking.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients.
Mixing bowl: Used for combining ingredients and mixing batters or dough.
Small bowl: Used for beating eggs, preparing egg wash, or holding small amounts of ingredients.
Parchment paper: A non-stick paper used to line baking sheets or pans for easy food release.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Pepperoni Pizza Pockets

Once the pizza pockets have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, wrap each cooled pizza pocket individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped pockets in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Frozen pizza pockets can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat refrigerated pizza pockets, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is crispy.
For frozen pizza pockets, you can either thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above, or bake them directly from frozen. To bake from frozen, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the frozen pockets on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is golden brown.
Alternatively, you can reheat pizza pockets in the microwave. Place a refrigerated or thawed pocket on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, checking every 30 seconds to ensure even heating.

How To Reheat Leftover Pepperoni Pizza Pockets

To reheat leftover pepperoni pizza pockets, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pizza pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is crispy. This method will help restore the crispiness of the crust while ensuring the filling is evenly heated.
Alternatively, you can use a toaster oven to reheat the pizza pockets. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pockets on the wire rack. Heat for 8-12 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the filling is hot. This method is perfect for reheating smaller batches of pizza pockets.
For a quick and convenient option, you can use a microwave to reheat the pizza pockets. Place the pockets on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high power for 30-45 seconds, or until heated through. However, keep in mind that microwaving may result in a softer, less crispy crust.
If you want to add a little extra flavor and crispiness to your leftover pizza pockets, try brushing them with a small amount of olive oil or melted butter before reheating in the oven or toaster oven. This will help enhance the taste and texture of the crust.
For a crispy exterior and a melty, gooey interior, consider using an air fryer to reheat your pizza pockets. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the pockets in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the filling is heated through.

Interesting Trivia About Pepperoni Pizza Pockets

Pepperoni pizza pockets are a fun and convenient way to enjoy the flavors of a classic pizza in a handheld form. They are perfect for on-the-go snacking or as a delicious appetizer for a party.

Is Making Pepperoni Pizza Pockets at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this pepperoni pizza pockets recipe largely depends on the availability and prices of the ingredients. Mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices can be moderately priced, while the cost of marinara sauce and pie crust may vary. Considering the quantity and quality of the ingredients, this recipe can be rated 7/10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, making it a reasonable option for a budget-friendly meal.

Are Pepperoni Pizza Pockets Healthy or Unhealthy?

The pepperoni pizza pockets recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not the healthiest option. Here's why:

The recipe relies heavily on processed ingredients like pre-made pie crust and pepperoni, which are often high in sodium, preservatives, and unhealthy fats.
Mozzarella cheese, although a good source of calcium and protein, is also high in saturated fat and calories.
The marinara sauce may contain added sugars, depending on the brand or recipe used.
The cooking method involves baking the pockets until golden brown, which may result in the formation of harmful compounds like acrylamide.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for a whole wheat or cauliflower-based pie crust to increase the fiber content and reduce the refined carbohydrates.
Use a reduced-fat mozzarella cheese or a combination of mozzarella and a lower-fat cheese like ricotta to decrease the saturated fat content.
Choose a low-sodium, all-natural pepperoni or replace it with a leaner protein like grilled chicken or turkey.
Make your own marinara sauce using fresh tomatoes, herbs, and spices to control the sugar and sodium content.
Incorporate more vegetables into the pockets, such as bell peppers, onions, or spinach, to boost the nutrient density.
Brush the pockets with olive oil instead of an egg wash to reduce cholesterol and add healthy monounsaturated fats.
Bake the pockets until lightly golden to minimize the formation of harmful compounds.

Editor's Opinion on This Pepperoni Pizza Pocket Recipe

This pepperoni pizza pockets recipe is a fun and delicious twist on traditional pizza. The use of pie crust as the base adds a flaky and buttery texture, while the combination of mozzarella cheese and pepperoni creates a classic flavor profile. The addition of the egg wash gives the pockets a beautiful golden brown color and a crispy finish. The versatility of this recipe allows for customization with different fillings and shapes, making it a great option for a family-friendly meal or a party appetizer. Overall, these pizza pockets are a creative and enjoyable way to enjoy the flavors of pizza in a convenient handheld form.

Enhance Your Pepperoni Pizza Pockets Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: Tender broccoli florets roasted to perfection with a crispy garlic parmesan crust.

Honey Sriracha Grilled Corn: Sweet and spicy grilled corn on the cob, brushed with a honey sriracha glaze for a burst of flavor.

Cinnamon Sugar Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries tossed in a cinnamon sugar coating for a delightful sweet and savory twist.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Pepperoni Pizza Pockets

Stuffed Bell Peppers: A delicious and colorful dish that combines bell peppers, ground beef, rice, and a flavorful tomato sauce.

Chicken Alfredo Pasta: A creamy and indulgent pasta dish made with tender chicken, fettuccine, and a rich Alfredo sauce.

Apple Crisp: A warm and comforting dessert featuring tender apples, a buttery oat topping, and a hint of cinnamon.

Perfect Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Pepperoni Pizza Pockets

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms stuffed with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs, then baked to perfection. These stuffed mushrooms are the perfect bite-sized appetizer for any occasion.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: A creamy and indulgent dip made with spinach, artichokes, and a blend of cheeses. Served warm with crispy tortilla chips or bread, this dip is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, warm chocolate dessert that oozes with rich, gooey goodness. The perfect balance of cake and molten chocolate center will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Delight in a creamy, luscious cheesecake topped with fresh, juicy strawberries. The smooth texture and tangy flavor combination make for a delightful and elegant dessert option.

Why trust this Pepperoni Pizza Pockets Recipe:

This recipe is a trusted classic, using pie crust and mozzarella cheese to create a delicious base. The addition of pepperoni slices and marinara sauce adds a burst of flavor, while the egg wash gives the pockets a golden, crispy finish. The step-by-step instructions ensure a foolproof process, and the option to customize the pockets with fun shapes adds an element of creativity. With these quality ingredients and clear directions, users can trust that they'll achieve mouthwatering pizza pockets every time.

Want to share your experience making these Pepperoni Pizza Pockets or have any tips to enhance the recipe? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum and let's talk about this delicious homemade treat!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cheese for the pizza pockets?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of cheese for the pizza pockets. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses, such as cheddar, provolone, or a blend of different cheeses to suit your taste.

Can I make the pizza pockets ahead of time and freeze them?

Absolutely! You can assemble the pizza pockets and freeze them before baking. Once assembled, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen pizza pockets on a baking sheet and bake according to the recipe, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I add other toppings to the pizza pockets?

Certainly! You can customize the pizza pockets with your favorite toppings such as cooked sausage, bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms. Just make sure that any additional toppings are cooked or prepped as needed before adding them to the pizza pockets.

How long can I store the baked pizza pockets?

Once baked, the pizza pockets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes until heated through.

Can I use homemade marinara sauce for the pizza pockets?

Absolutely! Using homemade marinara sauce will add a fresh and flavorful touch to the pizza pockets. If you have a favorite homemade marinara recipe, feel free to use it. Just make sure the consistency is not too watery to prevent the pizza pockets from becoming soggy.