Why You’ll Love Cheesy Pizza Pockets Recipe
This recipe comes together in about 25 minutes and delivers crispy outside layers with a warm, gooey center. The pockets are endlessly customizable — swap in your favorite fillings for everyone to enjoy. They’re great baked fresh, make-ahead freezer friendly, and perfect for dipping in extra sauce.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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refrigerated pizza dough or crescent roll dough
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marinara or pizza sauce
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shredded mozzarella cheese
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pepperoni slices (or your choice of fillings)
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garlic powder
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Italian seasoning
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olive oil or melted butter
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grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough. If using crescent roll dough, separate it into triangles; if using pizza dough, cut it into small rectangles.
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Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce onto each piece of dough, keeping it away from the edges.
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Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the sauce and add a few pepperoni slices or other fillings you like.
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Season with garlic powder and Italian seasoning, then fold the dough over to enclose the filling. Press the edges firmly with a fork to seal.
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Brush the tops with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle with grated Parmesan.
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Bake for about 12 to 15 minutes, until the pockets are golden and the cheese is melted.
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Let cool slightly before serving with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Servings and timing
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Yield: about 8 cheesy pizza pockets
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
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Use different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a blend for unique flavor profiles.
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Add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or olives for extra nutrition.
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Try a barbecue chicken or buffalo chicken filling for a twist on the classic.
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Substitute with plant-based meats or cheeses for a vegetarian version.
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Use whole wheat dough for a more wholesome version.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover pizza pockets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a 350°F oven until heated through and crispy, or microwave if you’re short on time. For best results, a toaster oven helps maintain crispness.
FAQs
What dough works best for pizza pockets?
Both refrigerated crescent roll dough and pizza dough work great — crescent dough is quick and easy, while pizza dough gives a chewier texture.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them and keep refrigerated overnight, then bake when ready to enjoy.
Can I freeze cheesy pizza pockets?
Absolutely — let them cool, wrap individually, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven.
What fillings can I use besides pepperoni?
Try diced ham, cooked sausage, sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or even pineapple for a twist.
How do I keep the pockets from leaking?
Don’t overfill and press the edges firmly with a fork to seal.
Can I use gluten-free dough?
Yes — gluten-free pizza dough works well if you follow the package instructions for baking.
What dipping sauce pairs well with these?
Extra marinara or pizza sauce is a classic choice, but ranch dressing also works nicely.
How can I make them crispier?
Brush with olive oil or melted butter before baking and make sure your oven is fully preheated.
Are these kid-friendly?
Yes! They’re popular with kids and great for lunchboxes.
Can I add extra cheese?
Of course — double the cheese for an even gooier inside.
Conclusion
These cheesy pizza pockets are an easy and satisfying snack that your whole family can customize to their taste. With a crisp exterior and melty, flavorful interior, they’re ideal for busy weeknights, parties, or after-school bites. Keep your ingredients ready, and you’ll have hot, delicious pockets on the table in under 30 minutes.
