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How to Cook and Store Hot Pockets - Easy Guide

Author: Melissa Collins

Updated: January 10, 2023

Are you tired of the same old boring meals that you eat every day? Want to spice things up with something quick and easy to prepare but still delicious?
Look no further than hot pockets!

These frozen pockets of goodness are a convenient and tasty option for busy days. But how do you properly cook and store them? The following guide will show you how to make the most of your spicy pockets and keep them fresh for future snacks.
So, let’s get started.

The best way to cook fresh hot pockets

There are several ways to cook fresh hot pockets:

Oven:

As soon as your oven is preheated to 220°C (425°F), place the hot pockets on a baking sheet. Now bake them for fifteen minutes until the crust is golden brown.

Stovetop:

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the hot pocket in the skillet and cook for three minutes on each side until the crust is golden brown.

Microwave:

Place the hot pocket on a microwave-safe plate and microwave for two minutes until heated through.

Toaster oven:

Preheat your toaster oven to 425°F (220°C). Now, place the hot pocket on a baking sheet and bake for ten minutes until the crust is golden brown.
Regardless of your cooking method, be sure to follow the package instructions for the best results.

The best way to cook frozen hot pockets

To cook a frozen hot pocket, follow these steps:

The first thing you need to do is to preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the packaging of the product.
Next, remove the hot pocket from its packaging and place it on a baking sheet or in a small baking dish.
Bake the hot pocket for the recommended amount of time listed on the package until the filling is hot and the crust is golden.

Allow the hot pocket to cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burns.

Alternatively, you can also cook a frozen hot pocket in the microwave by following the instructions on the package. Just be sure to follow the recommended cooking time and power level to avoid overcooking or undercooking the hot pocket.

How to cook hot pockets on the stove?

To cook a hot pocket on the stove, follow these steps:

Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
While the skillet is heating up, remove the hot pocket from its packaging. Now, place and place it in a microwave-safe dish.
Heat it in the microwave for 30 seconds or until it is thawed enough to be easily pierced with a fork.

Once the skillet is heated, place the hot pocket in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
Remove the hot pocket from the skillet and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

How to cook hot pockets in an air fryer?

Follow these steps to cook hot pockets in an air fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F.

Now, remove the hot pocket from its packaging and place it in the basket of an air fryer.
Cook for 6-7 minutes, flipping the hot pocket halfway through.
Once the hot pocket is heated through and the crust is crispy, remove it from the air fryer and allow it to cool for a few minutes before eating.

Enjoy your delicious and crispy pockets!

How to cook hot pockets in the oven?

To cook the frozen hot pocket in the oven, follow these steps:

Preheat your oven to 425°F.

Now, remove the hot pocket from its packaging. And place it on a baking sheet.
Cook the hot pocket for 22-25 minutes until the filling is hot and the crust is golden.
To add some extra crispiness to the crust, you can brush it with a little bit of olive oil before cooking.

When you are ready to serve the hot pocket, let it cool for a few minutes.

How to microwave hot pockets?

To cook the hot pocket in the microwave, follow these steps:

Remove the hot pocket from the packaging and place it on a microwave-safe plate.

Place the plate in the microwave and heat it on high for the recommended time listed on the packaging.
This will vary depending on the specific product, but it is typically around 2-3 minutes.
Carefully remove the hot pocket from the microwave using oven mitts or a towel, as it will be hot.

Allow the hot pocket to cool for a minute or two before eating to avoid burning your mouth.
Enjoy your warm and delicious pocket!

How to cook hot pockets in a pan?

To cook the hot pocket in the pan, follow these steps:

Start by heating a pan over medium heat.
While the pan is heating up, remove the hot pocket from its packaging. Now place it on a cutting board.
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a small slit on one end of the hot pocket. This allows steam to escape while cooking and prevent the hot pocket from exploding.

Once the pan is hot, place the hot pocket in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the outside is crispy and golden brown.
Remove the hot pocket from the pan and let it cool for a few minutes before eating.
Enjoy your hot and crispy homemade hot and spicy pocket!

How long do hot pockets take to cook?

It depends on the specific type of hot pocket and the cooking method used. The recommended cooking times for different types of pockets are as follows:

Oven: 8-12 minutes
Microwave: 2-3 minutes

It is important to follow the specific cooking instructions provided on the packaging to ensure that the pocket is cooked properly and safely.

Best side dishes for hot pockets

Salad – a refreshing and light side dish that pairs well with the richness of pocket sandwiches
Roasted vegetables – such as broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers add a crunchy and healthy element to the meal

Fries – a classic choice that adds a salty and crispy component to the dish
Pasta salad – a cold or room-temperature pasta dish that adds a pop of color and flavor to the meal
Mashed potatoes – a creamy and comforting side that balances out the savory flavors of the hot pockets

Grilled fruit – such as pineapple or peaches, add a sweet and tropical twist to the meal
Garlic bread – a tasty and garlicky addition that complements the flavors of the hot pockets
Roasted potatoes – a hearty and satisfying side that pairs well with the filling of the hot pockets

Grilled asparagus – a crisp and refreshing side that adds a touch of elegance to the meal
Baked beans – a hearty and flavorful side that adds a smoky and sweet element to the dish.

Best condiments for hot pockets

Many delicious condiments can be added to hot pockets to enhance their flavor and add an extra layer of complexity to the dish. Some of the best condiments for hot pockets include:

Ketchup is a classic condiment that goes well with many hot pockets.
Mustard – Adds a tangy, spicy flavor to hot pockets and pairs well with meats like ham or beef.
Mayonnaise – Adds a creamy, rich flavor to hot pockets and pairs well with veggies like tomato and lettuce.

BBQ sauce – Adds a sweet and smoky flavor to hot pockets and pairs well with meats like chicken or pork.
Hot sauce – Adds a spicy kick to hot pockets and pairs well with meats like chicken or beef.
Ranch dressing – Adds a creamy, tangy flavor to hot pockets and pairs well with veggies like lettuce and tomato.

Green pesto – Adds a creamy, herbaceous flavor to hot pockets and pairs well with veggies like spinach and mushrooms.
Cream cheese – Adds a creamy, tangy flavor to hot pockets and pairs well with meats like ham or turkey.
Tomato sauce – Adds a sweet and savory flavor to hot pockets and pairs well with meats like sausage or pepperoni.

Pickles – Adds a tangy, acidic flavor to hot pockets and pairs well with meats like ham or beef.
Salsa: For a Mexican-inspired hot pocket, salsa is a great condiment to add. It brings a fresh and zesty flavor that pairs well with cheese and meat-based hot pockets, especially ones with a Southwest or Mexican twist.
Guacamole: This condiment is a must-have for your hot pocket if you’re a fan of avocado. It adds a creamy and slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with cheese and vegetable-based hot pockets, especially ones with a Southwest or Mexican twist.

Overall, the best condiments for hot pockets depend on personal preference and the flavor of the filling. Experimenting with different condiments is a great way to add variety and flavor to this classic snack.

How to store hot pockets?

Hot pockets should be stored in the freezer until ready to be cooked. They can be placed in a plastic bag or container for easy storage in the freezer. Once the Hot Pocket has been cooked, it should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 2-3 days.

It is not recommended to store hot pockets at room temperature as they can spoil quickly.

How long do hot pockets stay good for?

Hot pockets will stay in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days. It is recommended to consume them within this time frame to ensure optimal taste and quality.

If frozen, hot pockets can be stored for up to 3 months. However, it is recommended to consume them within the first month for optimal taste and quality.

Can you freeze hot pockets?

Yes, hot pockets can be frozen. However, they may not have the same texture and quality as when freshly baked. To freeze hot pockets, wrap them in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable plastic bag.

Freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw and reheat, unwrap the hot pocket and place it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated. Alternatively, you can bake the frozen Hot Pocket in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until heated.

Conclusion

It is important to follow the cooking instructions on the package to ensure that the hot pocket is fully cooked and safe to eat. To store hot pockets, it is recommended to keep them in the original packaging in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to use.

When heating up a frozen hot pocket, it is important to thaw it completely before cooking to avoid any risk of food poisoning. Overall, with proper cooking and storage techniques, hot pockets can be a tasty and easy snack choice.

FAQs:

What are hot pockets?

Hot pockets are frozen, microwavable sandwiches filled with a variety of meat and cheese fillings. They are sold in single-serving sizes and are a popular convenience food.

How many calories are in a hot pocket?

Calories in a hot pocket will vary depending on the variety and serving size. Most Hot Pocket varieties contain between 250-350 calories per serving.

Are hot pockets vegan?

Some hot pockets varieties are vegan, but many contain meat and dairy products. Therefore, it is important to check the ingredient list on the packaging to determine if a particular variety is suitable for a vegan diet.

Are hot pockets gluten-free?

Some hot pockets varieties are gluten-free, but many contain wheat and other gluten-containing ingredients. Therefore, it is important to check the ingredient list on the packaging to determine if a particular variety is suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Are hot pockets healthy?

Hot pockets are not typically considered a healthy food due to their high calorie and fat content. Consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.