Barbecue In A Pocket
A savory handheld dish featuring seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and barbecue flavor encased in flaky crescent rolls, perfect for casual gatherings and quick family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Brown hamburger meat; drain excess fat.
- Mix in barbecue sauce and heat through.
- Roll out crescent rolls, using 4 to make a square on the baking sheet.
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup cheese on rolled-out dough and spoon meat mixture to within 1 inch of the edge.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top and cover with the other 4 crescent rolls.
- Seal edges and brown in the oven.
- Serve with your favorite vegetable and garnish with fruit.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the barbecue mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can replace the hamburger. You can also use a mix of cheeses, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a different flavor profile. Ensure the crescent rolls are well-sealed to prevent leaking during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Barbecue In A Pocket with a side of coleslaw for a refreshing crunch. It pairs beautifully with your favorite vegetable, such as steamed broccoli or a green salad. For a complete meal, consider adding baked beans, like Maine Baked Beans, for a hearty side dish that complements the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, or microwave for 1-2 minutes, being mindful not to overcook and dry out the rolls.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue In A Pocket contains roughly 486 calories, with 28g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (56% of the Daily Value), calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1000mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the barbecue mixture and assemble the rolls ahead of time. Store the unbaked pockets in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just preheat the oven and follow the baking instructions. This makes it a great option for quick weeknight dinners or gatherings.
What can I substitute for the crescent rolls?
If you want a healthier alternative, you can use whole wheat pizza dough or puff pastry instead of crescent rolls. Both options will provide a flaky texture while adding a different twist to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the baking time according to the dough you choose.
How do I know when Barbecue In A Pocket is done?
The dish is done when the crescent rolls are golden brown and cooked through. You can check the internal temperature of the meat mixture to ensure it reaches 160°F. If the edges are nicely browned and the cheese is melted, it’s ready to serve!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).