Pizza Pot Pies

Pizza pot pies are a delightful twist on traditional pizza, perfect for any occasion. These mini savory treats combine the comforting elements of pot pies with the classic flavors of pizza, making them an ideal appetizer or snack for parties, game days, or family gatherings. Their bite-sized nature allows for easy sharing, while the warm, cheesy filling keeps everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crowd-Pleaser: Pizza pot pies are sure to impress your guests with their unique presentation and familiar flavors.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences, such as different cheeses or veggies.
• Quick Prep Time: With a total time of under an hour, these pot pies are perfect for a last-minute gathering.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love these fun-sized snacks filled with their favorite pizza toppings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them warm from the oven or in individual cups; they work well as appetizers or snacks.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your pizza pot pies, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin Tin (standard or foil)
• Mixing Bowl
• Fork
• Brush (for butter mixture)

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin Tin: Essential for shaping the biscuits into pie forms, ensuring even baking.
• Mixing Bowl: Needed for combining ingredients efficiently before applying them to the biscuits.
• Fork: Helpful for pricking biscuits to prevent puffing during baking.
• Brush: Perfect for applying butter and sauce evenly inside the biscuit cups.

Ingredients

Ingredients needed for making delicious pizza pot pies include:

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

How to Make Pizza Pot Pies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your pizza pot pies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Tins

• Spray or oil the muffin pan lightly using cooking spray.
• Use a paper towel to remove excess oil, ensuring it doesn’t pool at the bottom of each tin.

Step 3: Mold the Biscuits

1. Open the biscuit package and separate each biscuit.
2. Place a biscuit in each muffin tin cup.
3. Press gently on the bottom and sides until it molds securely in place.

Step 4: Prick and Brush

• Use a fork to prick each biscuit a few times on both bottom and sides.
• Brush the inside of each biscuit with the prepared butter mixture.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Filling

1. Spread about ½ heaping teaspoon of pasta sauce inside each biscuit cup.
2. Fill with 1 heaping tablespoon of mozzarella cheese followed by ½ tablespoon of chopped pepperoni.
3. Repeat this layering process once more for extra cheesy goodness.

Step 6: Season and Bake

• Sprinkle a pinch of Italian seasoning on top if desired.
• Bake in the oven for 20-23 minutes until edges are golden brown and cheese is melted.

Step 7: Serve

Gently lift out your pizza pot pies from the muffin tin and arrange them on a plate or serve directly in individual tins. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pizza Pot Pies

Pizza pot pies are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience with this tasty treat.

Individual Portions

• Serve each pizza pot pie in its own muffin cup for a rustic touch.
• This makes it easy for guests to grab their own and enjoy without needing extra plates.

With Dipping Sauces

• Pair pizza pot pies with marinara or ranch dressing for dipping.
• These sauces add an extra layer of flavor that complements the cheesy goodness.

Side Salad

• Offer a light side salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a vinaigrette.
• The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the pot pies.

Appetizer Platter

• Include assorted appetizers like garlic bread or stuffed mushrooms on a platter.
• This creates a fun spread for gatherings or parties.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top each pizza pot pie with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
• This adds color and enhances the aroma, making them even more appealing.

Accompanied by Drinks

• Pair pizza pot pies with refreshing beverages like iced tea or lemonade.
• The drinks can help cleanse the palate between bites.

this …

How to Perfect Pizza Pot Pies

Creating the perfect pizza pot pies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to make them even better:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and high-quality pepperoni enhance flavor significantly.
• Don’t overfill: Filling each biscuit too much can cause them to overflow during baking; stick to recommended amounts.
• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the oven as baking times may vary slightly based on your equipment.
• Experiment with fillings: Try different toppings like veggies or various cheeses for unique flavor combinations.
• Cool slightly before serving: Allowing them to cool for a few minutes helps set the filling and makes them easier to handle.
• Store leftovers properly: Keep any uneaten pot pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Pizza Pot Pies

Pairing side dishes with pizza pot pies can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that pairs well with any Italian-inspired dish. You can easily make it by spreading garlic butter on slices of baguette and toasting them.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese adds a crunchy texture contrast.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that complements the savory flavors of pizza pot pies beautifully.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a healthy side option that enhances your meal’s nutritional value.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side dish that everyone loves.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats filled with cheese and herbs pair wonderfully, adding an elegant touch to your spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pizza pot pies can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold ingredients can result in uneven cooking. Make sure to bring your refrigerated biscuits to room temperature before using them.
• Overfilling the cups: Adding too much filling can cause spillage during baking. Stick to the recommended amounts to ensure they bake properly without overflowing.
• Not greasing the muffin tin: Failing to grease the muffin tin can lead to sticking. Use cooking spray or oil to ensure easy removal of your pizza pot pies.
• Skipping the pricking step: Not pricking the biscuits might cause them to puff up excessively. Prick with a fork to allow steam to escape and maintain shape.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can affect texture and doneness. Always preheat your oven and monitor closely as they cook.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store pizza pot pies in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pizza Pot Pies

• Allow them to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and they can last for up to 2 months.

Reheating Pizza Pot Pies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently so they don’t become soggy.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for even warming. This will also help retain crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Pizza Pot Pies?

Pizza pot pies are individual servings that combine elements of pizza and pot pie, featuring biscuit crusts filled with cheese, sauce, and toppings.

Can I customize my Pizza Pot Pies?

Absolutely! You can add different toppings like vegetables, sausage, or use different cheeses based on your preferences.

How do I make Pizza Pot Pies vegetarian?

Simply replace meat toppings like pepperoni with vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives for a delicious vegetarian option.

Can I use homemade dough instead of refrigerated biscuits?

Yes! Using homemade dough will give you more control over flavors and texture if you’re comfortable making it from scratch.

Final Thoughts

Pizza pot pies are not only fun but also incredibly versatile. They make a great appetizer for gatherings or a quick snack at home. You can easily customize them with your favorite toppings, making each batch unique. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to be a hit!