Unsloppy Joes Biscuit Pockets

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Unsloppy Joes Biscuit Pockets are fun, portable, and full of flavor. They take the classic comfort of Sloppy Joes and turn it into a convenient, grab-and-go meal that everyone will enjoy. The biscuits bake up buttery and golden while the filling stays juicy and flavorful inside. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, kid-approved, and ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Ground beef
  • Onion, finely chopped
  • Garlic, minced
  • Ketchup
  • Tomato paste
  • Brown sugar
  • Mustard (yellow or Dijon)
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Refrigerated biscuit dough (such as jumbo biscuits)
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until the meat is browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess fat.
  3. Stir in garlic, ketchup, tomato paste, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
  4. On a lightly floured surface, flatten each biscuit into a 4–5-inch round.
  5. Spoon 2 tablespoons of the Sloppy Joe mixture into the center of each biscuit.
  6. Sprinkle a little shredded cheddar cheese on top of the filling.
  7. Fold the biscuit over the filling to form a half-moon shape and pinch the edges to seal (use a fork for a decorative crimp).
  8. Place the pockets on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops lightly with olive oil or melted butter.
  9. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown.
  10. Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 8 biscuit pockets.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Cheesy version: Add extra shredded cheese or a small cube of cheddar inside each pocket.
  • Spicy twist: Mix in diced jalapeños or a few drops of hot sauce to the filling.
  • BBQ flavor: Replace ketchup with barbecue sauce for a smokier taste.
  • Turkey option: Substitute ground beef with lean ground turkey or chicken.
  • Mini pockets: Use smaller biscuit dough pieces for bite-sized appetizers.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover biscuit pockets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes or warm in an air fryer until crisp. Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent sogginess. These pockets also freeze well—freeze baked or unbaked, then reheat directly from frozen until hot throughout.

FAQs

Can I use homemade biscuit dough?

Yes, homemade biscuit dough works great if you prefer from-scratch baking.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare and refrigerate the filling for up to 3 days before assembling.

Can I use crescent roll dough instead of biscuits?

Yes, crescent roll dough makes lighter, flakier pockets. Adjust the bake time slightly.

How do I keep the filling from leaking out?

Be sure not to overfill the biscuits and seal the edges firmly with a fork.

Can I freeze Unsloppy Joes Biscuit Pockets?

Yes, freeze baked or unbaked pockets in a single layer, then store in freezer bags for up to 2 months.

What cheese works best for these pockets?

Cheddar, Colby Jack, or mozzarella all melt beautifully and pair well with the beef filling.

Can I make these vegetarian?

Yes, use plant-based ground meat or lentils in place of the beef.

How do I make them extra crispy?

Brush the tops with butter or egg wash before baking for a golden, crisp finish.

Can I air fry these instead of baking?

Yes, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until golden brown.

What sides go well with Unsloppy Joes Biscuit Pockets?

They pair perfectly with fries, coleslaw, salad, or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

Unsloppy Joes Biscuit Pockets are the perfect solution for anyone who loves the flavor of classic Sloppy Joes but wants a neater, handheld version. With their buttery biscuit crust, rich beef filling, and melty cheese, they’re a family-friendly favorite that’s quick, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. Ideal for meals, snacks, or parties—these pockets are guaranteed to become a regular on your menu.

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Unsloppy Joes Biscuit Pockets

Unsloppy Joes Biscuit Pockets

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Unsloppy Joes Biscuit Pockets are a fun, mess-free twist on the classic Sloppy Joe. Juicy, tangy ground beef filling is tucked inside buttery biscuit dough, baked until golden, and finished with melted cheese for a handheld meal everyone will love. Perfect for family dinners, lunchboxes, or party snacks.

  • Author: Laura
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 biscuit pockets
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough (8 jumbo biscuits)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until browned and tender. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Add garlic, ketchup, tomato paste, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer 5–7 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. On a lightly floured surface, flatten each biscuit into a 4–5 inch round.
  5. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the beef filling into the center of each biscuit.
  6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
  7. Fold the biscuit over to form a half-moon shape and seal the edges with your fingers or a fork.
  8. Place pockets on the prepared baking sheet and brush tops with olive oil or melted butter.
  9. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown.
  10. Cool slightly before serving warm.

Notes

  • Seal edges well to prevent filling from leaking out during baking.
  • Use homemade biscuit dough for a from-scratch option.
  • Brush with egg wash for an extra golden crust.
  • For a BBQ twist, substitute ketchup with barbecue sauce.
  • Reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 biscuit pocket
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 640mg
  • Fat: 17g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg
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