The moment you take a bite of these Air Fryer Pepperoni Pizza Pockets, you’re greeted with a crispy exterior that gives way to a gooey, cheesy filling bursting with pepperoni flavor. The aroma wafting from the air fryer is enough to make your mouth water and your friends gather around, eagerly waiting for their share. cheesy stuffed flank steak recipe taco stuffed shells for variety The blend of herbs and spices dances on your taste buds, making these pockets a delightful treat for any time of day.
Let’s be real—who doesn’t love pizza? Now, imagine it in pocket form, perfectly cooked in an air fryer. These little bundles of joy are perfect for game nights, movie marathons, or even as a snack during those late-night binge sessions. sweet potato hash for breakfast Trust me; once you try these Air Fryer Pepperoni Pizza Pockets, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These pizza pockets are incredibly easy to prepare and ready in under 30 minutes
- Their cheesy goodness and crispy texture will satisfy even the pickiest eaters
- The vibrant colors make them visually appealing and perfect for sharing at gatherings
- Plus, they are versatile enough to customize with your favorite fillings!
I still remember the first time I made these Air Fryer Pepperoni Pizza Pockets for my friends—they couldn’t get enough and kept asking for more! For more inspiration, check out this cheesy garlic biscuit bombs recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Pizza Dough: Store-bought or homemade; choose whichever suits your schedule best for ease.
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Pepperoni Slices: Go for quality slices to ensure maximum flavor in every bite.
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Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella melts beautifully; pre-shredded can work too if you’re in a pinch.
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Pizza Sauce: Your favorite brand or homemade; it’s essential for that classic pizza taste.
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Italian Seasoning: This adds depth; feel free to sprinkle extra if you love bold flavors.
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Olive Oil Spray: A light mist gives the pockets that golden-brown finish without excess grease.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures that your pizza pockets cook evenly and achieve that perfect crispiness.
Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. You want it thin enough to fold easily but thick enough so it doesn’t tear while handling.
Cut the dough into squares about 4 inches wide. Use a pizza cutter or knife for clean edges—no need to make this harder than it needs to be!
Place a spoonful of pizza sauce on one half of each square. Be careful not to overfill; nobody likes an exploding pocket!
Add a few slices of pepperoni and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese along with some Italian seasoning for that authentic touch.
Fold the dough over to form triangles or rectangles and seal the edges by pinching them together firmly. This helps keep all that gooey goodness inside while they cook.
Lightly spray the pockets with olive oil spray before placing them in the air fryer basket. This step is crucial because it helps achieve that golden-brown color we all crave.
Cook them in batches if necessary for about 10-12 minutes until they’re golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye out for that irresistible aroma wafting through your kitchen—it’s hard to resist sneaking one early!
Once done, let them cool slightly before serving—and don’t forget some extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping! These Air Fryer Pepperoni Pizza Pockets will disappear faster than you can say “pizza party.”
You Must Know
- Air Fryer Pepperoni Pizza Pockets are a quick and delightful treat that’s perfect for snacking
- These pockets can be customized with different toppings, making them versatile for everyone
- The aroma of melting cheese and crisp dough fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to the table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve crispy, golden pizza pockets, preheat your air fryer before placing them inside. Cook at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. This ensures even cooking and that perfect crunch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap pepperoni for your favorite protein or veggies! Add herbs like oregano or basil for an extra flavor kick. Experimenting is half the fun of these pizza pockets.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover pizza pockets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their delicious crunch.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh dough instead of frozen for a more flavorful experience
- Always seal edges tightly to prevent filling leaks during cooking
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary for optimal crispiness
I remember the first time I made Air Fryer Pepperoni Pizza Pockets; my kids devoured them within minutes! Their laughter and satisfaction reminded me why I love cooking so much.
FAQ
Can I use different fillings for my pizza pockets?
Absolutely! Try ham, vegetables, or even chicken for a unique twist on flavors. For more inspiration, check out this sticky honey chicken recipe.
How do I keep my pizza pockets from leaking?
Ensure you seal all edges well before cooking to prevent any delicious filling from escaping.
What dipping sauces pair well with pizza pockets?
pair with turkey melt sliders.
Marinara sauce is classic, but ranch dressing or garlic sauce adds a fun twist too!
Air Fryer Pepperoni Pizza Pockets
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 4 servings (4 pizza pockets) 1x
Description
Indulge in the perfect blend of crispy and gooey with these Air Fryer Pepperoni Pizza Pockets. These delightful treats feature a golden exterior that encases a melty filling of cheese, pepperoni, and zesty pizza sauce. Ideal for game nights or late-night cravings, they come together quickly in your air fryer, making them a go-to recipe for any pizza lover. With endless customization options, they can easily cater to all tastes!
Ingredients
- 1 cup pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 10 pepperoni slices
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp pizza sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick.
- Cut the dough into squares (4 inches wide).
- Place a spoonful of pizza sauce on one half of each square.
- Add pepperoni slices, mozzarella cheese, and Italian seasoning.
- Fold the dough over and seal the edges tightly.
- Lightly spray with olive oil before placing in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Serve with extra pizza sauce for dipping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
