Are you craving a warm, cheesy, and satisfying snack or meal? Forget those store-bought versions loaded with preservatives! This homemade Ham and Cheese Hot Pockets recipe is surprisingly easy, incredibly delicious, and lets you control the ingredients for a healthier, more flavourful experience. Perfect for a quick dinner idea, a satisfying lunch, or even a fun weekend snack, these hot pockets are sure to become a family favorite. Let's dive into this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pizza dough
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon milk or water
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, diced ham, and optional green bell pepper. If using, gently stir in the Dijon mustard. This adds a delightful tang that complements the ham and cheese beautifully.
Step 2: Assembling the Hot Pockets
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly flour your work surface. Unroll the pizza dough and cut it into six equal squares. Place about 1/6 of the ham and cheese mixture in the center of each square.
Step 3: Sealing the Pockets
Brush the edges of each dough square with the beaten egg mixed with milk or water. This helps to seal the edges and creates a lovely golden-brown crust. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle, pressing firmly to seal all edges. Crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch and to ensure a tight seal, preventing any leakage during baking.
Step 4: Baking to Perfection
Place the assembled hot pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
Step 5: Serving and Enjoying
Remove the hot pockets from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm, straight from the oven! They're equally delicious on their own or served with a side salad for a more complete meal.
Tips for the Best Ham and Cheese Hot Pockets:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your hot pockets will directly reflect the quality of the ingredients you use. Opt for good quality ham and cheese for the best results.
- Don't overfill: Overfilling the hot pockets can cause them to burst during baking. Stick to the suggested amount of filling.
- Get creative with fillings: Feel free to experiment with different fillings. Consider adding other cheeses, vegetables (like spinach or mushrooms), or even different meats like turkey or chicken.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the hot pockets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This is a great option for busy weeknights.
Variations:
- Spicy Hot Pockets: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Hot Pockets: Substitute the ham with feta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Vegetarian Hot Pockets: Omit the ham and add your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, and onions.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a general estimate per hot pocket is around 250-300 calories, with varying amounts of fat, protein, and carbohydrates. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator based on your exact ingredients.
This homemade Ham and Cheese Hot Pockets recipe offers a fun, easy, and delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or a fun snack, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!