High Protein Pizza Hot Pockets Recipe
These High Protein Pizza Hot Pockets combine the classic flavors of pizza in a convenient, handheld form. Made with a protein-packed dough using low-fat Greek yogurt and filled with pizza sauce and low-fat cheese, these pockets are a healthier twist on a favorite comfort food. Ready in just 30 minutes, they make a perfect snack or meal for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup low-fat Greek yogurt (substitute with blended low-fat cottage cheese for increased protein content)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (swap with a blend of almond flour and coconut flour for reduced carbohydrates)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder (ensure freshness for optimal leavening)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (use preferred dried herbs as desired)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (fresh minced garlic may be used for pronounced flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt
Filling
- 0.5 ounce (15 grams) pizza sauce (homemade or commercial)
- 0.7 ounce (20 grams) low-fat cheese (consider fat-free mozzarella for lighter pockets)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Baking Tray: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Mixing these first ensures even distribution of leavening and flavor throughout the dough.
- Incorporate Yogurt and Form Dough: Gradually add the low-fat Greek yogurt to the dry ingredients, folding gently until a shaggy dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the dough tender.
- Knead Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 2 to 3 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. This step develops the dough structure for a perfect texture.
- Divide and Shape: Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each piece into an oval roughly 6 inches in length, providing enough surface area to hold the filling.
- Fill Dough Ovals: On one half of each oval, evenly spread 0.5 ounce of pizza sauce and sprinkle 0.7 ounce of low-fat cheese. Leave a 0.5-inch border around the edges to allow for sealing.
- Seal and Crimp: Fold the dough over the filling, creating a pocket. Press the edges firmly with a fork to seal, using a small amount of water to help if needed. Proper sealing prevents leaks during baking.
- Bake Pockets: Arrange the sealed pockets on the prepared baking tray, ensuring adequate space between them. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until they are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the pockets from the oven and allow them to cool for 5 minutes. This resting period helps the filling set and enhances food safety before serving.
Notes
- For extra protein, substitute Greek yogurt with blended low-fat cottage cheese.
- To reduce carbohydrates, try swapping all-purpose flour with a combination of almond and coconut flour, but expect a slightly different texture.
- Use fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder for a more pronounced garlic flavor.
- Fat-free mozzarella cheese is a great option for lower fat content while maintaining taste.
- Ensure baking powder is fresh for the best rise in your dough.
- Allow pockets to cool slightly before eating to avoid burns from hot filling.
Keywords: high protein, pizza hot pockets, healthy snack, low fat, quick recipe, baked pockets, Greek yogurt dough, homemade pizza pockets
