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:Â Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute snacks.
- Kid-Friendly:Â Fun to make and eat, a guaranteed hit with the little ones.
- Customizable:Â 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
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef until fully cooked.
- Drain any excess grease and add the onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce, then season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and allow the filling to cool slightly.
2. Assemble the Pockets
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry and cut each sheet into 4 squares (for a total of 8).
- Place 2-3 tablespoons of the beef mixture in the center of each square.
- Top with half a slice of cheese.
- 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
- Arrange the cheeseburger pockets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
- 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:Â Pair with fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- For Parties:Â Serve these as appetizers with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue, or spicy aioli.
- Meal Prep:Â Make a batch and freeze before baking for a quick and easy meal later on.
Tips for Perfect Cheeseburger Pockets
- Seal the Edges Well:Â Use a fork to crimp the edges to prevent the filling from leaking out.
- Thaw Puff Pastry Properly:Â 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!