Ooey-Gooey Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza Pockets Recipe

Introduction

These Ooey-Gooey Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza Pockets are the ultimate easy weeknight dinner that combines all your favorite burger flavors in a handheld pizza crust. They are perfect for busy evenings when you want something delicious and satisfying without a lot of fuss. If you enjoy fun, cheesy meals, you might also love these Mini Tater Tot Cheeseburgers Recipe.

Ingredients

These savory Ooey-Gooey Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza Pockets combine crispy bacon, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheeses wrapped in golden pizza dough for the ultimate handheld comfort food.

• 1 lb ground beef
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1/2 cup diced pickles
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup mustard
• 1 package refrigerated pizza dough
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	35 minutes

Context: This Ooey-Gooey Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza Pockets recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Dough

If using store-bought pizza dough, let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle. Lightly flour your work surface to prevent sticking.

Divide the dough into 6 equal portions and roll each into a ball. Cover them with a damp cloth to prevent drying out while you prepare the filling.

Step 2 — Cook the Bacon and Beef

Cook 6 slices of bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Drain on paper towels, then crumble.

In the same skillet, cook 1/2 pound of ground beef over medium-high heat until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease and season with salt and pepper.

Step 3 — Mix the Cheeseburger Filling

In a bowl, combine the cooked beef, crumbled bacon, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup of diced pickles, and 2 tablespoons of ketchup.

Stir until everything is evenly distributed. The cheese will help bind the filling and create that signature ooey-gooey texture when melted.

Step 4 — Assemble the Pizza Pockets

Take one dough ball and roll it into a 6-inch circle. Place 1/3 cup of the filling in the center, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.

Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together, then crimp with a fork to seal completely and prevent leaks.

Step 5 — Add the Finishing Touches

Place the sealed pockets on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil or an egg wash for a golden-brown finish.

Sprinkle with a pinch of garlic powder and grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Use a sharp knife to make 2-3 small slits in the top of each pocket to allow steam to escape during baking.

Step 6 — Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the pockets for 15-18 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and firm to the touch.

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure the filling is hot and the cheese is fully melted. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving—the filling will be very hot!

Step 7 — Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Ooey-Gooey Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza Pockets warm with small bowls of ketchup, mustard, and extra pickles for dipping.

These are best enjoyed fresh from the oven when the cheese is at its most stretchy and delicious. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutritional Information

Calories	420
Protein	22g
Carbohydrates	35g
Fat	21g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	890mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey bacon — Offers a leaner protein option with smoky flavor while reducing saturated fat.
• Ground turkey or chicken — Provides a lighter protein alternative to beef while maintaining savory flavor.
• Low-fat mozzarella or reduced-fat cheddar — Delivers the essential cheeseburger experience with less fat and calories.
• Whole wheat pizza dough or cauliflower crust — Creates a lower-carb, higher-fiber base for these pizza pockets.
• Nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese — Perfect for creating dairy-free Ooey-Gooey Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza Pockets with cheesy flavor.
• Lettuce wraps instead of dough — Eliminates carbs entirely for a keto-friendly version of this recipe.
• Low-sodium bacon and reduced-sodium cheese — Maintains the classic flavor profile while significantly cutting sodium content.
• Portobello mushroom caps as pockets — Provides a gluten-free, low-carb vessel with earthy undertones.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these pizza pockets with a crisp side salad to balance the richness.
• Serve alongside seasoned french fries or sweet potato fries for a classic comfort meal.
• Perfect for game day gatherings, parties, or casual family dinners.
• Great for kids’ lunchboxes when cooled and packed properly.
• Offer dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, or barbecue sauce for extra flavor.
• Plate on a wooden board with fresh herbs for a rustic, appetizing presentation.
• Accompany with pickles or coleslaw to cut through the gooey cheeseburger filling.

These Ooey-Gooey Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza Pockets are versatile enough for any occasion, from quick weeknight meals to festive get-togethers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold dough that tears easily. Fix: Let refrigerated dough rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to improve elasticity and prevent rips.
• Mistake: Overfilling the pockets, causing leaks. Fix: Use a measured ¼ cup of filling per pocket and leave a ½-inch border for a secure seal.
• Mistake: Skipping the egg wash for a pale, dry crust. Fix: Brush with a beaten egg before baking to achieve a golden, glossy finish.
• Mistake: Adding raw, fatty bacon that makes the filling greasy. Fix: Pre-cook bacon until crisp and drain on paper towels to keep the interior from becoming soggy.
• Mistake: Sealing edges with just pressure, leading to bursts. Fix: Crimp firmly with a fork dipped in flour to create a tight, decorative seal that holds during baking.
• Mistake: Baking on a cold sheet, resulting in a gummy bottom. Fix: Preheat your baking sheet in the oven so the dough starts cooking immediately for a crispier base.
• Mistake: Using only one type of cheese that doesn’t melt well. Fix: Combine mozzarella for stretch and cheddar for flavor to get the perfect ooey-gooey texture.
• Mistake: Not venting the tops, causing steam to build up and split seams. Fix: Cut 2–3 small slits in each pocket to allow steam to escape safely during baking.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store cooled Ooey-Gooey Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza Pockets in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individually in foil and place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Always allow your pizza pockets to cool completely before storing to maintain texture and prevent condensation.

Conclusion

These Ooey-Gooey Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza Pockets are the ultimate comfort food mashup. If you love this recipe, try our Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs Recipe next! Don’t forget to leave a comment with your review and subscribe for more delicious recipes.

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FAQs

Can I make these pizza pockets ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the Ooey-Gooey Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza Pockets ahead of time. Store them unbaked in the refrigerator for up to a day, or freeze them for longer storage. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from frozen.

What is the best way to seal the pizza pockets so the filling doesn’t leak?

Use a fork to firmly press and crimp the edges of the dough after filling. Ensure the filling is cool and not overly wet to prevent the dough from becoming soggy and breaking. This technique helps keep all the delicious ingredients inside your Ooey-Gooey Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza Pockets.

Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely, you can substitute the cheese. While the recipe title suggests a classic cheeseburger blend, cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack work wonderfully. Choose a cheese that melts well to maintain the ooey-gooey texture that makes these pizza pockets so irresistible.