There’s something about a warm, cheesy pepperoni pizza pocket that just takes me back to my childhood! Every Friday night, my family had a tradition of ordering pizza and I would dream about those little pockets of joy stuffed with gooey cheese and pepperoni. Now, thanks to my air fryer, I can recreate that memory at home, and it’s healthier and way quicker!
These Air Fryer Pepperoni Pizza Pockets are perfect for satisfying your cravings without turning on the oven. They’re crispy, delicious, and make for a fantastic snack or a fun dinner! I still remember the first time I made these; I had friends over for game night, and they were such a hit that I had to make a second batch halfway through the evening! Let’s dive in!
What’s in Air Fryer Pepperoni Pizza Pockets?
Pizza Dough: The star of the show! You can use store-bought dough for convenience, or if you’re feeling extra, make your own. I usually opt for a good-quality refrigerated dough because it saves me time without compromising on taste.
Pepperoni: These flavorful slices are essential for that classic pizza flavor. I love using mini or regular-sized slices; both work brilliantly here!
Mozzarella Cheese: The gooey, melty cheese that ties everything together! I always grab block mozzarella and shred it myself; it melts beautifully and tastes fresher compared to pre-shredded.
Pizza Sauce: A dollop of love in the form of tangy pizza sauce is a must. Whether you make your own or buy a jar, it adds the perfect flavor. Sometimes I like to spice it up with a hint of crushed red pepper flakes.
Olive Oil: A light brush of olive oil will give your pockets that beautifully golden, crispy texture when they come out of the air fryer. Trust me, you won’t want to skip this step!
Is Air Fryer Pepperoni Pizza Pockets Good for You?
Well, that’s a loaded question, isn’t it? One thing’s for sure, these pizza pockets definitely have their perks!
Pizza Dough: Depending on your choice, homemade dough can be made from whole wheat flour which offers more fiber than white flour versions.
Pepperoni: Yes, it’s delicious, but pepperoni is high in saturated fat and sodium. You can pick turkey or veggie pepperoni as a lighter alternative if you want to cut back a bit.
Mozzarella Cheese: This cheesy goodness provides a good source of calcium and protein. Just remember to enjoy it in moderation!
Overall, these pizza pockets make a fun treat rather than a column in your daily diet. Enjoy them with a side salad, and you’re golden!
Ingredients
– 1 package of pizza dough (around 1 pound)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
– 1/4 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Olive oil for brushing
– Spices like garlic powder, oregano, or crushed red pepper (optional)
– Serves: 4 (making about 8 pockets)
How to Make Air Fryer Pepperoni Pizza Pockets?
1. Start by rolling out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Cut out circles using a cookie cutter or a glass – about 4-5 inches in diameter.
2. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes while you assemble.
3. Place a tablespoon of pizza sauce in the center of each dough circle, followed by a handful of mozzarella cheese and several slices of pepperoni.
4. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a little extra flair.
5. Lightly brush each pocket with olive oil and sprinkle with your choice of spices.
6. Arrange the pockets in your air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they aren’t touching. You might need to do this in batches.
7. Air fry for about 6-8 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
8. Once done, let them cool for a minute, then serve them warm with extra pizza sauce for dipping!
A Perfect Pairing!
To make this a complete meal, serve your Air Fryer Pepperoni Pizza Pockets alongside a fresh garden salad or some crispy veggies. You can also get creative with fillings—think spinach and ricotta or BBQ chicken for some fun twists.
Wouldn’t they make a perfect party appetizer? Trust me, your guests will be begging for the recipe!
I hope you give these delightful pizza pockets a try! They’re super quick to whip up and are bound to become a household favorite. Let me know how they turn out and if you get creative with the fillings! Happy cooking!
