These Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza Pockets combine the best of two worlds—cheeseburgers and pizza—into one delicious handheld treat. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a fun party appetizer, these pockets are packed with cheesy, meaty goodness and a touch of crispy bacon.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
For the Dough
- 1 package (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade pizza dough)
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Optional Toppings
- Sesame seeds (for a burger-like finish)
- Additional shredded cheese for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Add ketchup, mustard, and crumbled bacon to the skillet. Stir to combine, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and set the filling aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface and cut it into 8 equal rectangles.
Step 3: Assemble the Pizza Pockets
- Place a generous spoonful of the cheeseburger filling onto one half of each dough rectangle, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to form a pocket. Press the edges firmly with a fork to seal.
- Transfer the pockets to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake the pizza pockets in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Success
- Seal tightly: Ensure the edges are well-sealed to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- Customize the filling: Add pickles, jalapeños, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Make ahead: Prepare the filling in advance and assemble the pockets when ready to bake.
Why You’ll Love These Pizza Pockets
- Portable and fun: Perfect for on-the-go meals or packed lunches.
- Crowd-pleaser: A hit with kids and adults alike.
- Versatile: Easily customizable to suit your favorite burger toppings.
Enjoy these Ooey-Gooey Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza Pockets fresh from the oven, or reheat them for a quick snack later. Let me know if you’d like to see an image or variations for this recipe! 😊