About this recipe

Golden, hand-held pizza pockets stuffed with savory Italian sausage, gooey mozzarella, and classic pizza sauce — all wrapped in a tender homemade dough. These freeze beautifully, making them the ultimate make-ahead meal or snack for busy weeknights and lunchboxes alike.

Instructions

1. 1

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add the olive oil, fine sea salt, and all-purpose flour, then stir until a shaggy dough forms. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5–6 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 20 minutes (it won't fully double, but will puff slightly).

2. 2

   While the dough rests, heat a large skillet over ^[medium-high heat]. Add the sweet Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, for 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. 3

   Preheat your oven to ![400°F] and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a roughly 6-inch circle. Spread about 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce on one half of each circle, leaving a ½-inch border. Top with a spoonful of cooked sausage, a generous pinch of shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese, and a few mini pepperoni if using. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together, then crimp with a fork to seal.

4. 4

   Place the sealed pockets on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten large egg wash, then sprinkle with garlic powder and Parmesan cheese (if using). Use a sharp knife to cut 2 small slits in the top of each pocket to allow steam to escape. Bake for 18–20 minutes until deep golden brown.

5. 5

   Let the pizza pockets cool for 3–5 minutes before serving — the filling will be very hot. Serve with extra pizza sauce or marinara on the side for dipping. To freeze, let cool completely, wrap individually in plastic wrap, and store in a Ziploc bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a oven at ![350°F] for 15–18 minutes or microwave for 2–3 minutes.