Step-by-step instructions
Ready to dive into cooking? Start by preheating your oven to 375°F.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef and diced bacon over medium heat until browned.
- Add in the diced onion and pickles, cooking until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste and stir to combine.
- Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough on a clean surface and cut it into squares (about 4 inches each).
- Spoon a bit of pizza sauce onto the center of each square, followed by a generous spoonful of the beef mixture.
- Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top of the filling.
- Carefully fold each square in half to seal the pocket, using a fork to crimp the edges tightly.
- Place the pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melty.
- Serve hot and relish the gooey, cheesy goodness!
Best ways to enjoy it
These pizza pockets are fabulous on their own, but why not elevate the experience? Serve them with a side of extra pizza sauce or tangy ranch for dipping. You could pair these with a crispy salad or crunchy coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.
For a fun twist, put together a mini slider bar with toppings like lettuce, tomato, and different cheeses so everyone can customize their pockets. Kids love making their own snacks, and this turns meal time into an interactive event!
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you have any pizza pockets left over, don’t worry! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked pockets. Just be sure to flash freeze them first on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Helpful cooking tips
For the best texture and flavor, take a moment to allow the ground beef and bacon to truly brown. This enhances the overall richness of the filling. Also, don’t rush the sealing process; make sure the edges are well crimped so that all the cheesy goodness stays inside during baking.
If you prefer a crispier crust, try brushing the tops of the pockets with a bit of melted butter before baking. This adds flavor and encourages a beautiful golden color.
Creative twists
Looking to jazz up your pizza pockets? Here are a few ideas to customize your creation:
- Spicy Touch: Add jalapeños to the beef mixture for a kick.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in chopped bell peppers or mushrooms along with the onions.
- Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheese blends, such as pepper jack for heat or mozzarella for a stretchy, melty texture.
- Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in some Italian herbs like oregano or basil for added flavor depth.
FAQs
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is about 10-15 minutes, and cooking takes around 15-20 minutes. You’ll have these ready in no time!
Can I make these in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble the pockets ahead of time, then refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to bake.
What’s the best way to reheat them?
For the crispiest result, reheat baked pockets in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, rather than using the microwave.
Dive into these delicious, cheesy pockets of joy, and enjoy every cheesy, meaty bite!
