Description
Cheesy Stuffed Pizza Squares
Your favorite pizza in a fun, bite-sized form! Crispy crust, gooey cheese, and a flavorful marinara sauce make this the perfect snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
1 can pizza dough (or homemade)
1 cup marinara sauce
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup pepperoni slices, chopped (optional)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Dough:
Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. Cut into squares (about 4-inch squares).
Assemble the Pizza Squares:
Spoon a small amount of marinara sauce into the center of each square, followed by a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese. If you’re adding pepperoni, place a few pieces on top of the cheese.
Fold and Seal:
Carefully fold the dough into squares, pinching the edges to seal them completely.
Bake:
Place the stuffed squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
Serve and Enjoy:
Let the pizza squares cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra oregano if desired.
Tip: Serve these with extra marinara for dipping!
A fun twist on classic pizza that’s perfect for parties or a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut into 16 equal squares (roughly 4×4 inches).
2. Fill Center: Place a dough square on your work surface. Spoon 1 teaspoon of marinara into the center, then top with 1 tablespoon of shredded mozzarella and a few pepperoni pieces (if using). Ensure filling is centered, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
3. Create the Seal: Lift two opposite corners of the dough square and bring them together over the filling. Repeat with the other two corners, pinching all four seams firmly in the center to create a sealed pouch. Gently press the side seams to ensure no cheese can leak.
4. Final Bake Prep: Place sealed squares seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Brush each lightly with olive oil using a pastry brush. Evenly sprinkle with the garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. They are done when the tops are a deep golden brown and you can see cheese bubbling slightly at the seams.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these squares warm as a crowd-pleasing appetizer with small bowls of extra marinara, ranch dressing, or garlic butter for dipping. For a meal, pair them with a crisp green salad or a bowl of Italian wedding soup. They also make excellent game-day snacks or a fun, hands-on lunch for kids.
How-to Summary
Roll and cut pizza dough into squares. Fill centers with sauce, cheese, and optional pepperoni. Fold corners to the center, pinching to seal. Brush with oil, season, and bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes until golden. Serve warm with dipping sauces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the squares, place them on the baking sheet, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking. Add 1-2 minutes to the bake time if going straight from the fridge.
Can I use different fillings? Absolutely. Try cooked Italian sausage, sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or a blend of cheeses like provolone and parmesan. Avoid overly wet fillings to prevent soggy dough.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or toaster oven at 375°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness. The microwave will make them soft.
My cheese leaked out during baking. Why? This is usually due to an incomplete seal. Ensure the dough edges are pinched firmly and there are no tiny holes. Also, avoid overfilling the squares.
Can I freeze stuffed pizza squares? Yes, after assembling, freeze them on the baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the original bake time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling: Too much sauce or cheese will cause leaks and prevent a proper seal.
- Inadequate Sealing: Pinch seams thoroughly; a poorly sealed square will burst open in the oven.
- Using Cold Dough: Let refrigerated dough sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes. Cold dough is difficult to stretch and seal.
- Skipping the Oil Brush: The olive oil promotes browning and adds flavor to the crust.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Place squares at least an inch apart to allow for even air circulation and browning.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Stuffed Pizza Squares transform the classic pizza experience into a portable, shareable delight. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve perfectly golden parcels with a molten cheese center every time. They are endlessly customizable, perfect for any occasion, and guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy the delicious fun!