Pizza Pot Pies

Pizza pot pies are a delightful twist on traditional dishes, merging the comforting flavors of pizza with the warmth of pot pies. Perfect for gatherings and family dinners, these individual servings offer a flavorful experience that everyone will love. The crispy biscuit crust encases melted cheese and savory turkey pepperoni, making them an irresistible snack or appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these pizza pot pies in no time.
• Flavor Packed: Each bite bursts with cheesy goodness and zesty flavors from the herbs and spices.
• Versatile Options: Customize your filling with different toppings or cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day, a party, or a cozy family dinner, these pot pies make for a great treat.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids love their portable size and delicious taste, making them an excellent choice for lunchboxes.

Tools and Preparation

To create perfect pizza pot pies, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tin or muffin cups
• Mixing bowl
• Fork
• Brush for applying butter

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: This is crucial for shaping the biscuit dough into individual servings that hold all your tasty fillings.
• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl helps combine your ingredients easily without any mess.
• Fork: Use it to prick the biscuits before baking to ensure they cook evenly.
• Brush: A brush is handy for applying butter and sauce smoothly inside the biscuit cups.

Ingredients

For the Biscuit Base

• 1 tablespoon Butter (softened (not melted))
• ½ tablespoon Olive Oil
• ¼ teaspoon Salt
• ¼ teaspoon Garlic Powder
• ¼ teaspoon Italian Seasoning (plus extra as topping (optional))
• Pinch of Black Pepper
• Cooking Spray (or oil to grease the tins)
• 8 Refrigerated Biscuits (16 ounce package)

For the Filling

• ¼ cup Pasta Sauce (or Pizza Sauce, use a meatless variety)
• 3 ounces turkey pepperoni (chopped)
• 7-8 ounces Shredded Mozzarella

Additional Equipment Needed

• 8 Muffin Cups (3½ inch round tin foil muffin cups – ½ cup capacity or standard muffin tin)

How to Make Pizza Pot Pies

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients together to streamline the cooking process. Measure out everything you need so you can focus on assembling your pizza pot pies.

Step 2: Mix the Butter Mixture

1. In a small bowl, combine:
2. Softened butter
3. Olive oil
4. Salt
5. Garlic powder
6. Italian seasoning
7. Black pepper
8. Stir well until all ingredients are fully mixed.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare Muffin Tins

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Lightly spray or oil your muffin pan using cooking spray or oil on a paper towel to avoid excess pooling.

Step 4: Shape the Biscuit Dough

1. Open the biscuit package and separate each biscuit.
2. Place a biscuit in each muffin cup and gently press it down to shape it against the bottom and sides of the cup.
3. Repeat this process with all biscuits until each cup is filled.

Step 5: Prick and Brush Biscuits

1. Use a fork to prick each biscuit base several times to allow steam to escape while baking.
2. Brush the inside of each biscuit with your prepared butter mixture.

Step 6: Add Sauce and Fillings

1. Spread about ½ heaping teaspoon of pasta sauce inside each biscuit cup.
2. Add 1 heaping tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese followed by ½ heaping tablespoon of chopped turkey pepperoni.
3. Repeat this layering until all cups are filled.

Step 7: Season and Bake

1. Sprinkle a pinch of Italian seasoning on top if desired.
2. Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for about 20–23 minutes until golden brown on edges and cheese is melted.

Step 8: Serve Your Pizza Pot Pies

Once baked, gently lift out your individual pizza pot pies from the muffin pan. Arrange them on a plate or platter, or serve them directly in their cups for convenience! Enjoy warm as an appetizer or snack that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

How to Serve Pizza Pot Pies

Pizza pot pies are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your pizza pot pie experience.

Casual Gatherings

• Platter Style: Arrange multiple pizza pot pies on a large platter for a fun sharing experience. This is perfect for parties or game nights.
• Individual Servings: Serve each pizza pot pie in its tin for a charming touch, making it easier for guests to grab and enjoy.

Dipping Sauces

• Marinara Sauce: Offer a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping. Its rich flavor complements the cheesy goodness of the pot pies wonderfully.
• Garlic Butter: Serve melted garlic butter alongside for an indulgent twist. Just brush it over the top before taking a bite!

Accompaniments

• Fresh Salad: Pair your pizza pot pies with a refreshing green salad to balance out the richness. A simple vinaigrette works great.
• Veggie Platter: Include a crunchy veggie platter with carrots, celery, and bell peppers for a healthy crunch beside your savory treats.

How to Perfect Pizza Pot Pies

To ensure your pizza pot pies turn out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Choice of Fillings: Experiment with different fillings like vegetables or various meats to create new flavor combinations.
• Even Biscuit Layering: Make sure to press the biscuits evenly into the muffin tins to avoid uneven cooking.
• Proper Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; golden edges mean they’re ready to come out of the oven!
• Don’t Overfill: Be cautious not to overfill your pots. A heaping tablespoon of cheese and turkey pepperoni is just right for optimal melting.

Best Side Dishes for Pizza Pot Pies

Enhance your meal by pairing pizza pot pies with delicious side dishes. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from your pizza pot pies.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and creaminess, balancing the flavors perfectly.
3. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans bring freshness and color to your plate.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and zest, making it a refreshing side option.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a light, flavorful complement.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for hearty finger food alongside your pot pies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pizza pot pies can be a fun experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are a few mistakes to avoid:

• Ignoring the Dough’s Thickness: If you press the biscuits too thin, they may not hold their shape. Ensure you mold them evenly without over-stretching.
• Overfilling the Cups: Adding too much filling can cause spills and soggy bottoms. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Skipping the Pricking Step: Not pricking the biscuit base can lead to air bubbles and uneven cooking. Always prick a few holes before baking.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect how well your cheese melts and how crispy your crust turns out. Let everything sit at room temperature before assembling.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat your oven can lead to uneven baking. Always ensure your oven reaches 350°F before placing your pot pies inside.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow them to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Pizza Pot Pies

• Freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Pizza Pot Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5-7 minutes until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about pizza pot pies, here are some frequently asked questions that might help:

What are Pizza Pot Pies?

Pizza pot pies are mini savory pastries filled with pizza-style ingredients like cheese and pepperoni, baked in biscuit dough.

Can I make Vegetarian Pizza Pot Pies?

Absolutely! Simply replace turkey pepperoni with your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives.

How do I customize my Pizza Pot Pies?

You can customize them by adding different cheeses or using different sauces like pesto or alfredo instead of traditional pizza sauce.

Can I use homemade dough instead of refrigerated biscuits?

Yes! Using homemade dough can add a personal touch and allow you to control the ingredients better.

Final Thoughts

Pizza pot pies are an exciting twist on traditional pizza that everyone will love. Their versatility allows you to mix and match fillings based on your preferences. Try them out today and enjoy experimenting with different flavors!