If you’ve been craving a fun, comforting meal that’s both easy to make and full of flavor, then this Homemade Pizza Pockets: Classic and Broccoli & Cheddar Variations Recipe is just the ticket. These delightful pockets combine the crispy, golden crust you love with two incredible fillings—one featuring the timeless combo of pepperoni and mozzarella, and the other bursting with cheesy broccoli goodness. Whether you’re whipping up a quick dinner or packing a satisfying snack, these pizza pockets bring coziness, taste, and versatility to your table in a way that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a key role in creating those irresistible flavors and textures. From gooey cheeses to fresh broccoli and flavorful pepperoni, these essentials come together beautifully to make every bite memorable.
- Refrigerated classic pizza crust: This serves as the perfect base, offering a tender yet crispy exterior once baked.
- Pizza sauce: Adds that rich, tangy tomato flavor that ties the whole classic pocket together.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts smoothly providing that classic cheesiness we all crave.
- Pepperoni slices: Infuse the pockets with a savory, slightly spicy punch.
- Sliced black olives: Offer a briny depth that complements the other toppings beautifully.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Provides a bold, tangy contrast, especially in the broccoli variation.
- Olive oil: Brushes on the crust for a golden finish and enhances flavor.
- Italian seasoning: Sprinkled on top to add herbal notes that lift the entire dish.
- Finely chopped broccoli (thawed): Brings freshness and a lovely green touch to the cheddar-filled pockets.
How to Make Homemade Pizza Pockets: Classic and Broccoli & Cheddar Variations Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Trays
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Position the racks in the middle for optimal heat circulation. Grease two baking sheets or line them with parchment paper—this keeps those delicious pockets from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Shape the Dough Circles
On a lightly floured surface, slice your pizza dough into two equal portions. Roll each into a circle about 6 to 8 inches across. This size ensures you have enough room to pack in the fillings without the dough getting too thick or too thin.
Step 3: Assemble the Classic Pizza Pockets
Spread half a cup of pizza sauce over one half of the first dough circle. Then layer mozzarella cheese, followed by pepperoni slices and some drained black olives. This combination is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser combining savory, tangy, and salty flavors.
Step 4: Seal the Classic Pocket
Fold the dough over the fillings to create a pocket. Press down the edges firmly—either with your fingers or a fork—to seal everything inside. Don’t forget to cut a few small slits on the top so steam escapes during baking and your crust stays perfectly crisp.
Step 5: Prepare the Broccoli & Cheddar Filling
Mix finely chopped broccoli with sharp cheddar and a bit of mozzarella cheese in a bowl. This mixture will give the second dough circle a wonderfully cheesy, fresh, and savory filling that’s perfect for anyone looking to sneak some greens into their meal.
Step 6: Assemble and Seal the Broccoli & Cheddar Pizza Pockets
Spread the broccoli and cheese mixture over half of the second dough circle just like before. Fold and seal carefully, adding steam-release slits on top. Brush both pockets generously with olive oil and sprinkle Italian seasoning on top for an aromatic finish.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Crispy
Place your prepared pockets on the baking trays in the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, switching the trays halfway through to ensure even baking. You’ll know they’re done when the crust turns golden brown and crispy, and you can see the cheese inside is perfectly melted.
Step 8: Cool Slightly and Enjoy
Let your Homemade Pizza Pockets: Classic and Broccoli & Cheddar Variations Recipe rest for a few minutes post-baking. This helps everything set so it’s easier to handle and enjoy without the risk of burning your mouth on molten cheese.
How to Serve Homemade Pizza Pockets: Classic and Broccoli & Cheddar Variations Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh basil or chopped parsley not only brightens the look but adds a fresh herbal lift that pairs perfectly with the cheesy fillings. A dash of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a delightful little kick for spice lovers.
Side Dishes
Pair these pizza pockets with a crisp green salad or a light Caesar salad for balance. A side of roasted veggies or a simple coleslaw works wonderfully too, especially to complement the broccoli & cheddar pockets.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these pockets on individual wooden boards or colorful plates for a rustic, approachable vibe. You can also stack them with dipping sauces like garlic butter, ranch, or marinara on the side — perfect for dipping and sharing in a fun way.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover pizza pockets tightly in foil or place them in airtight containers to keep them fresh. Stored in the refrigerator, they will stay tasty for up to 3 days, making them a convenient option for quick meals during the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled, uncooked pockets by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This is a lifesaver for busy days!
Reheating
To reheat, pop your pizza pockets in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes until warm and crispy again. Avoid microwaving unless in a pinch, as the crust won’t retain that lovely crispness.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pizza dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough works wonderfully and allows you to personalize the crust texture. Just roll it out to the recommended size and proceed as directed.
Are there vegetarian options for the classic pizza pocket?
Yes, simply omit the pepperoni and add veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach instead. It’s a great way to customize the pockets while keeping them delicious.
Can I substitute different cheeses?
Feel free to experiment! Provolone, Monterey Jack, or even gouda can add different flavor profiles. Just make sure the cheese melts well for the best texture.
How do I prevent the pockets from leaking during baking?
Make sure to seal the edges tightly and don’t overfill the pockets. Pressing firmly with a fork helps create a good seal so the fillings stay inside.
What are good dipping sauces for these pizza pockets?
Marinara and garlic butter are classic choices, but ranch, blue cheese, or spicy sriracha mayo also complement the flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a warm, satisfying recipe that’s both fun and flexible, give this Homemade Pizza Pockets: Classic and Broccoli & Cheddar Variations Recipe a try. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy two tasty twists on a traditional favorite, whether for family dinners or an impressive snack. Make it your own, share with loved ones, and savor every bite—these pockets are nothing short of pure comfort on a plate.
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Homemade Pizza Pockets: Classic and Broccoli & Cheddar Variations Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (2 calzones – 1 of each variety) 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
Homemade Pizza Pockets, also known as calzones, offer a delicious and quick meal or snack option. This recipe features two variations: a classic pizza calzone filled with pepperoni, mozzarella, and black olives, and a broccoli & cheddar calzone with a savory blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and finely chopped broccoli. Baked to golden perfection with a crispy crust, these pizza pockets are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For Classic Pizza Calzone
- 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
For Broccoli & Cheddar Calzone
- 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 (12 oz frozen bag, thawed)
Instructions
- Preheat 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 and allow easy cleanup.
- Prepare Dough: On a lightly floured surface, divide the pizza dough into two halves. Roll each half into a circle, about 6-8 inches in diameter. Transfer the dough circles to the prepared baking trays.
- Spread Sauce (Classic Calzone): Spread pizza sauce on one half of each dough circle to create the base for the toppings.
- Add Classic Filling: Top the sauce-covered half with shredded mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, and drained black olives evenly.
- Form Classic Calzone: Fold the dough over the filling to form a pocket, pressing the edges together firmly with your fingers or a fork to seal. Cut small slits in the top of the dough to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Brush and Season Classic: Brush the exterior dough with olive oil and sprinkle Italian seasoning on top for added flavor.
- Prepare Broccoli Mixture: In a bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli with shredded sharp cheddar cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese until well mixed.
- Assemble Broccoli & Cheddar Calzone: Spoon the broccoli and cheese mixture onto one half of the other dough circle. Fold over the dough and seal the edges securely, making slits in the top to vent steam.
- Bake: Bake both trays in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, swapping the trays halfway through to ensure even baking, until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Let the calzones cool slightly on a wire rack before serving to allow the filling to set and to avoid burns.
Notes
- Make sure to roll the dough evenly for uniform baking.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Vent slits are important to allow steam to escape and avoid soggy pockets.
- Swap the baking trays halfway during cooking for even heat distribution.
- Allow calzones to cool slightly before cutting to retain fillings.
- You can customize fillings with your favorite vegetables or meats.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
