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Alabama Hot Pockets Recipe

Southern Sizzle Meat Pockets

These Southern Sizzle Meat Pockets are savory, golden hand pies filled with a delicious mix of seasoned meat, sautéed vegetables, and melty cheese; wrapped in flaky pastry and baked to crispy perfection. Inspired by comforting Southern flavors, they’re the perfect grab-and-go meal or cozy family dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Southern Cuisine
Calories: 390
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Filling
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 lb ground beef or cooked shredded chicken
  • 1/4 cup diced onion
  • 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • For the Pastry
  • 1 sheet puff pastry thawed or biscuit dough
  • 1 egg for egg wash
  • 1 tbsp water to mix with egg
  • Optional Toppings
  • Dried parsley or thyme for garnish

Equipment

  • 1 × Oven
  • 1 × Sheet Pan
  • 1 × Mixing Bowl
  • 1 × Fork
  • 1 × Pastry Brush

Method
 

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cook the Filling: In a skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté onions and bell peppers for 2–3 minutes. Add beef or chicken, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until well combined and heated through. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, cut your puff pastry into even rectangles (approx. 4x6 inches).
  4. Add Filling: Spoon 1–2 tbsp of the filling and a pinch of cheese onto one half of each rectangle, leaving space around the edges.
  5. Seal the Pockets: Fold over the other half of dough to cover filling. Press edges with a fork to seal.
  6. Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk egg and water. Brush the tops of each pocket with egg wash.
  7. Bake: Place on prepared sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
  8. Rest & Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with dried herbs if desired and enjoy warm!

Notes

  • You can substitute the protein with pulled pork, turkey, or vegetarian options.
  • These freeze well! Reheat in the oven or air fryer.
  • Serve with coleslaw, baked beans, or sweet tea for a true Southern experience.
Alabama Hot Pockets Recipe
Alabama Hot Pockets Recipe