Cheeseburger Pockets

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious twist on a classic favorite, these Cheeseburger Pockets are the perfect solution! Combining the beloved flavors of a cheeseburger with a flaky crescent roll crust, this recipe makes for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, these pockets are sure to please everyone at the table. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, they’re a fantastic option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings!

Cheeseburger Pockets

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef: The heart of the dish, delivering that classic cheeseburger taste.

1 small onion, finely chopped: Brings a hint of sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly inside, offering gooey, cheesy goodness.

1 package (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough: Forms the flaky, buttery crust that encases the filling.

2 tbsp ketchup: Adds a tangy sweetness essential for a classic cheeseburger flavor.

1 tbsp mustard: Provides a bit of zing to balance the richness.

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Infuses a savory, umami flavor to the filling.

Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings to enhance the overall taste.

1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the onions and browning the beef.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set the oven to 375°F (190°C): Preheat it so it’s ready to bake the pockets to a golden, crispy finish.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Beef

Heat the olive oil: In a large skillet, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion once the oil is hot.

Cook the onions: Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until they’re soft and translucent.

Add the ground beef: Break up 1 lb of ground beef into the skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Season the Beef Mixture

Add the condiments: Stir in 2 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of mustard, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Mix thoroughly.

Season to taste: Add salt and pepper according to your preference. Allow the mixture to cook for another 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.

Let cool slightly: Remove from heat and let the beef mixture cool slightly before filling the dough to avoid sogginess.

Step 4: Assemble the Pockets

Unroll the crescent roll dough: On a clean surface, unroll the dough and separate it into 8 triangles.

Fill the dough: Place a spoonful of the beef mixture on the wide end of each triangle, then add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Seal the pockets: Fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges to seal tightly to prevent leaks during baking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Arrange on a baking sheet: Place the pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them.

Bake: Place the sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the dough is golden brown and crisp. Enjoy the delightful aroma in your kitchen!

Cool slightly: Once baked, remove the pockets from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving to make them easier to handle and allow the filling to set.

Notes:

Meat Options: While ground beef is a classic choice, feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.

Vegetable Additions: You can add chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the beef mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.

Serving Suggestions: Serve with extra ketchup, mustard, or your favorite dipping sauces on the side for added flavor.

Storage: These pockets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Freezing: For meal prep, you can freeze the assembled pockets before baking. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Custom Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to your taste; try adding garlic powder, onion powder, or a splash of hot sauce for extra zing.

Crescent Roll Alternatives: If you can’t find crescent roll dough, puff pastry or biscuit dough can work as substitutes, though the texture will differ slightly.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 8 pockets | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make Cheeseburger Pockets ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Assemble the pockets just before baking for the best texture.

Can I freeze the assembled pockets?

Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled pockets before baking.

Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to an airtight container.

Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I substitute for crescent roll dough?

If you can’t find crescent roll dough, you can use puff pastry or biscuit dough.

Both will give a different texture but will still be delicious.

How do I ensure the pockets don’t get soggy?

To prevent sogginess, allow the beef mixture to cool slightly before filling the dough.

Also, make sure to seal the pockets tightly to keep the filling from leaking during baking.

Can I customize the filling?

Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or use different types of cheese.

You can also experiment with spices and seasonings to suit your taste.

What type of ground beef should I use?

You can use any ground beef, but lean ground beef (like 80/20) is recommended for a good balance of flavor and fat.

If you prefer a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well too.

How do I ensure the filling is fully cooked?

Cook the ground beef until it is browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 160°F (71°C) for beef.

Can I make these pockets vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace the ground beef with a meat substitute like lentils, black beans, or a store-bought plant-based ground meat.

Adjust seasonings to enhance the flavor accordingly.

How do I seal the dough properly?

To seal the dough, place the filling on the wide end of the triangle, fold the dough over, and pinch the edges firmly together.

You can use a fork to crimp the edges for an extra secure seal.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftover pockets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat them in the oven or microwave until heated through for the best taste.