Why You’ll Love Cheeseburger Hot Pockets Recipe
Cheeseburger Hot Pockets combine the rich flavors of a homemade cheeseburger with the convenience of a grab-and-go pastry. They’re kid-approved, freezer-friendly, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re craving a hearty lunch or looking for a creative dinner option, these hot pockets deliver all the cheesy, meaty goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 package refrigerated pie crusts
• 1 egg, beaten
Directions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
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Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender.
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Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, basil, thyme, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix well.
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Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool slightly.
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Roll out the pie crusts and cut into squares or rectangles.
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Spoon the beef mixture onto one half of each crust piece.
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Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the filling.
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Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
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Place the pockets on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with beaten egg.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6 hot pockets
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
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Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
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Cheese Lovers: Use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss.
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Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with plant-based ground meat or sautéed mushrooms and zucchini.
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Breakfast Version: Swap the beef for scrambled eggs, cooked sausage, and cheese.
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Pizza Style: Add marinara sauce, pepperoni, and mozzarella for a pizza pocket twist.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust crisp. For longer storage, freeze fully baked and cooled hot pockets individually. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can fully prepare and assemble the hot pockets ahead of time. Store them in the fridge until ready to bake.
Can I freeze them before baking?
Yes, freeze the assembled but unbaked hot pockets on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen when ready.
What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but you can experiment with mozzarella, provolone, or a spicy pepper jack for extra flavor.
How do I keep the filling from leaking?
Make sure not to overfill the crust, and press the edges firmly with a fork to seal them properly.
Can I use puff pastry instead of pie crust?
Absolutely. Puff pastry will give the hot pockets a lighter, flakier texture.
Are these good for kids’ lunches?
Yes, they’re a fun and tasty option for lunchboxes and can be made in smaller portions for kids.
Can I use leftover hamburger meat?
Definitely. Using already-cooked ground beef makes the process quicker.
What dipping sauces go well with these?
Ketchup, mustard, ranch, or a creamy burger sauce all pair well with cheeseburger hot pockets.
How do I reheat without drying them out?
Cover with foil when reheating in the oven to prevent over-browning and drying.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free pie crust and ensure all your other ingredients are gluten-free.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger Hot Pockets are the perfect blend of hearty comfort food and easy convenience. With a flavorful beef filling, melty cheese, and a crisp crust, they satisfy every craving. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for a fun twist on a classic dish, these homemade hot pockets are sure to hit the spot.
