Cheeseburger Pockets are a fun and tasty twist on a classic cheeseburger, all wrapped up in golden, flaky pizza dough. These handheld bundles are perfect for lunch, dinner, game day, or on-the-go meals. With melted cheese, seasoned beef, and the tang of mustard and ketchup, they’re everything you love about a cheeseburger—no grill required.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These pockets are quick to make, kid-friendly, and versatile enough to customize with your favorite burger toppings. Using refrigerated pizza dough keeps prep time short, and they bake up beautifully golden and crisp. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a party snack, these cheeseburger pockets deliver both flavor and convenience.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 lb ground beef
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 tablespoon mustard
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1 tablespoon ketchup
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1 can refrigerated pizza dough
directions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
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In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
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Stir in the mustard and ketchup, mixing well until the beef mixture is evenly coated.
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Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface and cut into even squares (about 4–5 inches each).
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Place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each square, then sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
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Fold the dough over to form a triangle or rectangle, pinching the edges together to seal.
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Place the pockets on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown.
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Let cool slightly before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 8 cheeseburger pockets.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: Around 35 minutes
Variations
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Cheese Swap: Try cheddar, American, or pepper jack instead of mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
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Bacon Cheeseburger: Add crumbled cooked bacon to the beef mixture for a smoky touch.
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Pickle Lovers: Add a few chopped pickles inside each pocket before sealing.
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Spicy Kick: Stir in hot sauce, jalapeños, or chili flakes for heat.
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Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground beef or sautéed mushrooms as a substitute.
storage/reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes or microwave for 30–45 seconds, though the oven method keeps the crust crispier.
These pockets can also be frozen (before or after baking) for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen at 375°F for 20–25 minutes.
FAQs
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and refrigerate the filling up to 24 hours in advance.
Can I use crescent roll dough instead of pizza dough?
Yes, crescent roll dough also works well and gives a softer texture.
How do I keep the pockets from bursting open?
Don’t overfill and make sure to seal the edges tightly, using a fork if needed.
Can I add more toppings inside?
Absolutely—just don’t overload, or sealing the dough may become difficult.
What’s the best dipping sauce for these?
Serve with ketchup, mustard, ranch, or even barbecue sauce.
Can I make mini pockets for parties?
Yes, cut smaller squares and use less filling to make bite-sized versions.
Can I use cooked leftover burger patties?
Yes, just chop and reheat them before mixing with the sauces and onion.
Do I need to cook the onions before adding?
Yes, cooking them with the beef softens the texture and enhances flavor.
Can I brush the tops with egg wash?
Yes, brushing with beaten egg before baking gives them a shiny, golden finish.
How do I reheat without drying them out?
Reheat in foil in the oven or use a microwave with a damp paper towel cover.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger Pockets are an easy, delicious way to enjoy the flavors of a cheeseburger in a fun, handheld form. Crispy on the outside and savory on the inside, they’re perfect for family meals, lunchboxes, or party appetizers. Quick to assemble and endlessly customizable, these are sure to become a regular favorite at your table.
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Cheeseburger Pockets – A Family Favorite!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 pockets
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cheeseburger Pockets are a fun and flavorful twist on the classic cheeseburger, wrapped in golden pizza dough and stuffed with seasoned beef, onions, ketchup, mustard, and melty mozzarella. Perfect for quick family dinners, lunchboxes, or party snacks!
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 tbsp mustard
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1 tbsp ketchup
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1 can refrigerated pizza dough
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and chopped onion until beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
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Stir in mustard and ketchup, season with salt and pepper, and mix well.
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Roll out the pizza dough and cut into even squares or rectangles.
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Spoon a portion of the beef mixture onto the center of each dough piece and top with shredded mozzarella.
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Fold the dough over to form a pocket and pinch edges to seal completely.
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Place pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
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Serve warm with dipping sauces or a side salad.
Notes
Add pickles or a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top for a more “burger-like” touch.
Swap in cheddar cheese or use a mix for more flavor.
Great for freezing—just reheat in the oven or air fryer!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course / Snack
- Method: Baking