Cheesy Beef Stuffed Bread Pockets

Cheesy Beef Stuffed Bread Pockets

Introduction

If you’re craving something hearty, cheesy, and utterly comforting, these Cheesy Beef Stuffed Bread Pockets will hit the spot every time. Picture golden, pillowy bread baked to perfection and stuffed with juicy, seasoned beef, melted mozzarella, and a touch of pizza sauce. Each bite delivers that perfect mix of tender bread, savory filling, and gooey cheese — like a handheld mini-meal straight from the oven. Ideal for family dinners, parties, or meal prep, these pockets are as fun to make as they are to eat.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (420 g)

• 2 teaspoons instant yeast

• 1 tablespoon sugar

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• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup warm milk (240 mL)

• ¼ cup warm water (60 mL)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef (450 g)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

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• 1 teaspoon paprika or chili powder (optional)

• ½ cup pizza or marinara sauce

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Topping:

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

• 1 tablespoon milk

• Melted butter (for brushing after baking)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough
   In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
   Add flour, salt, and olive oil, and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 7–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

2. Make the Filling
   While the dough rises, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
   Stir in onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika, cooking for another 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
   Add pizza sauce and stir until well combined. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat and cool slightly.

3. Assemble the Bread Pockets
   Punch down the dough and divide it into 8–10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a small ball, then flatten into a round or square disc (about 4–5 inches wide).
   Spoon a portion of the beef mixture into the center, followed by a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
   Fold the dough over the filling to form a sealed pocket (like a pillow), pinching the edges tightly to close.

4. Prepare for Baking
   Arrange the filled pockets in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each. Cover and let them rest for 20–25 minutes to puff slightly.
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk for the egg wash. Brush the tops of the pockets with the mixture for a beautiful golden crust.

5. Bake Until Golden
   Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the bread is cooked through. Brush with melted butter immediately after baking for extra shine and softness.

6. Serve Warm
   Serve fresh from the oven with marinara sauce or ketchup for dipping. They’re best enjoyed warm when the cheese inside is perfectly melted and stretchy.

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Conclusion

These Cheesy Beef Stuffed Bread Pockets are pure homemade comfort — golden, soft, and filled with delicious layers of flavor. From the savory beef to the melted cheese and tender bread, every bite feels like a warm hug. Perfect for weeknight dinners, school lunches, or a cozy movie night, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Try them once, and you’ll find yourself baking them again and again — because nothing beats that first bite of cheesy, beefy goodness fresh from the oven.