Cheeseburger Pockets recipe

Transform the classic cheeseburger into a fun, portable treat with these Cheeseburger Pockets! Made with flaky puff pastry, juicy ground beef filling, and melty cheddar cheese, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute snacks.
  • Kid-Friendly: Fun to make and eat, a guaranteed hit with the little ones.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite burger toppings like pickles or bacon for a personalized twist.

Ingredients for Cheeseburger Pockets

For the Filling:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp mustard
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pockets:

  • 1 package puff pastry (2 sheets, thawed)
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling

  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef until fully cooked.
  2. Drain any excess grease and add the onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Stir in the ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce, then season with salt and pepper.
  4. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and allow the filling to cool slightly.

2. Assemble the Pockets

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll out the thawed puff pastry and cut each sheet into 4 squares (for a total of 8).
  3. Place 2-3 tablespoons of the beef mixture in the center of each square.
  4. Top with half a slice of cheese.
  5. Fold the pastry over to form a triangle or rectangle, pressing the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.

3. Brush with Egg Wash

  • Brush the tops of the pockets with beaten egg for a golden, crispy finish.

4. Bake the Pockets

  1. Arrange the cheeseburger pockets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.

5. Serve and Enjoy

  • Let the pockets cool slightly before serving.
  • Serve with ketchup, mustard, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Serving Suggestions

  • With Sides: Pair with fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
  • For Parties: Serve these as appetizers with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue, or spicy aioli.
  • Meal Prep: Make a batch and freeze before baking for a quick and easy meal later on.

Tips for Perfect Cheeseburger Pockets

  • Seal the Edges Well: Use a fork to crimp the edges to prevent the filling from leaking out.
  • Thaw Puff Pastry Properly: Ensure the pastry is fully thawed but still cold for easier handling.
  • Customize the Filling: Add chopped pickles, crumbled bacon, or sautéed mushrooms for a gourmet twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought crescent rolls instead of puff pastry?
Yes, crescent roll dough is a great alternative for a softer texture.

Can I freeze the pockets?
Absolutely! Assemble the pockets and freeze them before baking. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What cheese works best?
Cheddar is a classic choice, but mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack are also delicious options.

Can I make these vegetarian?
Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat crumbles or a mix of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.

Conclusion: A Fun Spin on Classic Cheeseburgers

These Cheeseburger Pockets are everything you love about a cheeseburger wrapped in golden, flaky puff pastry. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always a hit at the dinner table or a party.

Try this recipe today and bring a little creativity to your burger night!

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