Description
These Football Pizza Pockets are crispy, cheesy, and shaped like mini footballs for a fun game-day treat. Made with pizza dough, your favorite toppings, and a golden crust, they’re easy to make and perfect for dipping in marinara sauce!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 package refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices (mini or chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Optional Fillings
- Cooked sausage or crumbled bacon
- Diced bell peppers or mushrooms
- Black olives or jalapeños
For the “Laces” (Optional Decorations)
- Thin strips of mozzarella cheese or pizza dough
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Roll out the pizza dough:
- Lightly flour a surface and roll out the pizza dough to about ¼-inch thickness.
- Use a football-shaped cookie cutter (or cut by hand with a knife) to make an even number of football-shaped pieces.
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Assemble the pizza pockets:
- Place half of the football-shaped dough pieces onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Spread 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce on each piece, leaving a small border.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and add pepperoni (or your desired toppings).
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Seal the pockets:
- Place the remaining football-shaped dough pieces on top.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges closed.
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Add the laces (optional):
- Cut thin strips of mozzarella cheese or extra pizza dough and arrange them on top in a crisscross pattern to resemble football laces.
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Brush & season:
- Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden crust.
- Sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
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Bake:
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
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Serve & enjoy:
- Let cool slightly, then serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping!
Notes
- Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or spicy sausage.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Stuff the edges with extra mozzarella for a cheesy crust.
- Make Ahead: Assemble and freeze before baking for a quick snack later.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.