If you’ve ever wished for a snack that’s bursting with bold flavors, warm gooey cheese, and a satisfyingly crispy crust, you are absolutely going to adore this Homemade Pizza Pockets Recipe. These handheld pockets of joy combine the best aspects of classic pizza and savory calzones, but with a fun, portable twist. Whether you’re craving the timeless combo of pepperoni and mozzarella or want a fresh veggie-packed option with broccoli and cheddar, these pizza pockets are not just dinner—they’re an experience you’ll want to share over and over.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple but essential ingredients is the key to making this Homemade Pizza Pockets Recipe a big success. Each one plays a crucial role: from the soft yet sturdy pizza dough that wraps your fillings, to the cheeses that melt into creamy perfection, to seasonings and veggies that add layers of flavor and texture.
- 1 refrigerated classic pizza crust: Provides the perfect base with a tender and flaky texture that crisps up nicely when baked.
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce: Gives an authentic tangy base that complements all the toppings beautifully.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to creamy stretchiness, essential for that gooey pizza experience.
- 2 oz pepperoni slices: Adds a salty, savory punch with just the right amount of spice.
- 4 oz canned sliced black olives, drained: Offers a briny contrast that balances the richness of cheese and pepperoni.
- 3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Brings a sharp, tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with broccoli.
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Mixed with cheddar for a perfectly melty, cheesy filling for the veggie pocket.
- 3 tbsp olive oil: Used to brush the dough for a golden, crisp crust and infused with aroma.
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning: Adds a fragrant blend of herbs that elevate the overall flavor profile.
- 1 1/2 cups finely chopped broccoli (thawed from frozen): Provides a fresh, healthy crunch and vibrant green color to your vegetable pockets.
How to Make Homemade Pizza Pockets Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Position the racks in the middle of your oven to ensure even baking. Line two baking trays with parchment paper or lightly grease them to keep your pizza pockets from sticking while they turn golden.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, split the refrigerated pizza dough into two equal halves. Roll each half into a circle about 6-8 inches in diameter. These circles act as the perfect size for folding over and creating your pizza pockets. Carefully transfer each dough circle to your prepared baking trays.
Step 3: Assemble the Classic Pizza Calzones
On one half of each dough circle, spread a generous layer of pizza sauce. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top, then add pepperoni slices and black olives. These classic toppings come together to create the traditional pizza pocket flavor we all know and love.
Step 4: Seal the Classic Pockets
Fold the dough over the filling to form a neat pocket. Press the edges together firmly using your fingers or the tines of a fork to seal. Don’t forget to cut a few small slits in the top of each pocket—this allows steam to escape during baking and keeps the crust from getting soggy.
Step 5: Assemble the Broccoli & Cheddar Calzones
Brush the remaining dough circles with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian seasoning for an herby, golden crust. In a bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli with shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Spoon this mixture onto one half of each dough circle.
Step 6: Seal the Broccoli Pockets
Fold these dough circles over the broccoli and cheese mixture and seal just like the classic pockets. Make sure to cut slits on top here as well to allow steam to escape. These veggie-loaded pockets will provide a deliciously fresh alternative to the meatier classic version.
Step 7: Bake the Pizza Pockets
Pop both trays into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through baking, switch the trays to ensure even browning. When done, the crusts should be golden brown, crispy on the outside, and the cheese inside wonderfully melty.
How to Serve Homemade Pizza Pockets Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a dash of red pepper flakes can take your pizza pockets to the next level. A few torn basil leaves or a drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil adds fresh herbal notes that brighten the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Roasted vegetables or a cup of hearty tomato soup also pair wonderfully, making your meal perfectly balanced and satisfyingly complete.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting your pizza pockets into smaller, bite-sized triangles for casual sharing or party platters. Wrapping them individually in parchment paper tied with twine makes for a charming picnic treat or lunchbox surprise. You can even serve them with small dipping bowls filled with ranch or marinara sauce to amp up the fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any extra pizza pockets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They stay surprisingly moist yet crisp when properly stored, making for a quick, delicious snack or lunch the next day.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze assembled but unbaked pizza pockets on a baking sheet in a single layer until firm, then transfer to freezer-safe bags. This way, you can bake fresh pockets straight from the freezer whenever hunger strikes.
Reheating
To reheat, pop frozen or refrigerated pockets into a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through and the crust re-crisped. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that signature crispy exterior and melty center.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of refrigerated crust?
Absolutely! Homemade dough works beautifully and adds that extra personal touch. Just make sure it’s rolled out evenly and not too thick to ensure your pockets bake through perfectly.
How do I prevent the pizza pockets from getting soggy?
Cutting steam vents on top and ensuring your fillings aren’t overly wet help prevent sogginess. Also, baking on parchment paper and allowing the pockets to cool slightly on a rack encourages a crisp crust.
Can I add other fillings to these pizza pockets?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your favorite pizza toppings such as mushrooms, bell peppers, cooked sausage, or even a drizzle of pesto inside for extra flavor.
Will these pizza pockets work in an air fryer?
Yes! Air frying at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes works well. Just watch closely so they don’t burn, adjusting time based on your model’s performance.
Are these suitable for kids’ lunches?
They’re perfect for lunchboxes or after-school snacks since they’re portable, tasty, and easy to eat with hands—just be sure they’re cool enough before packing!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a fun family dinner or a new favorite to pack in lunches, this Homemade Pizza Pockets Recipe is a wonderful way to bring people together. The combination of crispy crust, melty cheese, and flavorful fillings will have you reaching for seconds in no time. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Homemade Pizza Pockets Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (2 calzones per type)
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This recipe for Homemade Pizza Pockets features two delicious varieties: a classic pepperoni and black olive calzone and a broccoli and cheddar calzone. Using refrigerated pizza dough, these savory pockets are easy to assemble and bake to golden perfection, making for a perfect snack or meal.
Ingredients
Classic Pepperoni & Olive Calzones
- 1 refrigerated classic pizza crust
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 oz pepperoni slices
- 4 oz can sliced black olives, drained
Broccoli & Cheddar Calzones
- 1 refrigerated classic pizza crust
- 3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 1/2 cups finely chopped broccoli (thawed from 12 oz frozen bag)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the racks in the middle. Grease two baking trays or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, divide the pizza dough into two equal halves. Roll each half into a circle approximately 6-8 inches in diameter. Place the dough circles onto the prepared baking trays.
- Assemble the Classic Pizza Calzones: Spread pizza sauce evenly over one half of each dough circle. Add shredded mozzarella cheese on top, then layer with pepperoni slices and drained black olives.
- Seal the Classic Calzones: Fold the dough over the fillings to form a pocket. Press the edges together firmly with your fingers or a fork to seal the calzone. Cut small slits on the top to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Assemble the Broccoli & Cheddar Calzones: Brush the surface of the dough with olive oil and sprinkle Italian seasoning evenly. In a bowl, combine finely chopped broccoli with sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Spoon this mixture onto one half of each circle of dough.
- Seal the Broccoli Calzones: Fold the dough over the broccoli and cheese mixture and seal the edges tightly. Cut slits on the top to release steam.
- Bake the Calzones: Place the baking trays in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, swapping the trays halfway through to ensure even baking. The calzones are done when the crust is golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- Make sure to cut slits on top of each calzone to avoid soggy bottoms and allow steam to escape.
- Use thawed broccoli and squeeze out excess moisture for best texture in the broccoli calzone.
- You can substitute or add other fillings such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or cooked sausage as desired.
- If using homemade dough, ensure it is chilled and rested before rolling out.
- Serve warm with extra pizza sauce or marinara for dipping.
