There’s something truly comforting about biting into a hot pocket fresh from the oven. The crispy golden crust gives way to the warm, gooey cheese and savory ham inside, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
I remember the first time I made these at home—no more frozen snacks for me! The smell of baking dough mixed with melted mozzarella and marinara sauce filled the kitchen and instantly lifted my mood. It quickly became a favorite for lunch and dinner alike.
Why You’ll Love It:
– Crispy golden crust with a soft, cheesy interior
– Simple ingredients you probably already have
– Perfectly balanced flavors of ham, mozzarella, and mild marinara sauce
– Great for quick lunches or easy dinners
Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these hot pockets are a cozy treat everyone can appreciate.
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Homemade Hot Pockets
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 hot pockets
Description
Crispy golden crust hot pockets filled with melted mozzarella cheese, savory deli ham, and mild marinara sauce, baked to perfection.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet active dry yeast
3/4 cup warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
8 slices deli ham
1/2 cup mild marinara sauce
Instructions
In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Divide the dough into 4 equal portions and roll each into a rectangle about 6×8 inches.
Place 2 slices of deli ham on one half of each rectangle, then add a generous handful of shredded mozzarella cheese and a spoonful of mild marinara sauce.
Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges by pressing firmly, crimping if desired.
Place the hot pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
FAQ
Q: Can I prepare these hot pockets ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble them in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover hot pockets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy crust.
Go ahead—save this recipe, print it out, or jump right in and cook. These homemade hot pockets are waiting to become your new favorite comfort food.