Hot Pocket Cooking Time: Ham And Cheese Edition

Hot Pockets are a convenient snack that can be cooked in a microwave or oven. The cooking time depends on the number of sandwiches being cooked, the type of crust, and the wattage of the microwave. For example, if you are cooking two ham and cheese Hot Pockets with a croissant crust in a microwave on high power, the cooking time is 3 minutes and 30 seconds. However, if you are using a lower wattage/compact microwave, it is recommended to cook one sandwich at a time for 3 minutes and 15 seconds each. On the other hand, if you are cooking the same type of Hot Pockets in a conventional oven, the cooking time is 24 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Cooking time in a microwave with a sleeve: 3 minutes, 30 seconds

To cook two ham and cheese hot pockets in the microwave with a sleeve, you'll need to first unwrap the frozen sandwiches and insert them into a crisping sleeve. Place the sleeve on a microwave-safe plate and cook on high for 3 minutes and 30 seconds.

It's important to note that the cooking time may need to be adjusted depending on the wattage of your microwave. For lower wattage or compact microwaves, it is recommended to cook one sandwich at a time.

Once the sandwiches are cooked, use a potholder to remove them from the sleeve, and let them sit for about 2 minutes to complete the cooking process. Always be cautious when handling the product as it will be hot.

For food safety and quality, it is important to ensure that the hot pockets reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Cooking time in a microwave without a sleeve: 3 minutes, 30 seconds

To cook two ham and cheese hot pockets in the microwave without a sleeve, you will need to set aside 3 minutes and 30 seconds of cooking time on high. Before starting, unwrap the sandwiches and place them on a microwave-safe plate.

It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave. For lower wattage or compact microwaves, it is recommended to cook one sandwich at a time for best results. If you are using a lower wattage microwave, the cooking time for one sandwich is 3 minutes and 15 seconds.

After cooking, let the sandwiches sit for about 2 minutes to complete the cooking process. Always be cautious when handling the sandwiches after cooking, as they will be hot.

For a crispier option, you can use the crisping sleeve designed for microwave use. Simply unwrap the sandwiches, insert them into the sleeve, and place them on a microwave-safe plate. The cooking time for two sandwiches in the sleeve is the same as without—3 minutes and 30 seconds on high. Again, let the sandwiches sit for 2 minutes after cooking to complete the cooking process, and be cautious as they will be hot.

Cooking time in a conventional oven: 28-30 minutes

To cook two ham and cheese hot pockets in a conventional oven, you'll need to preheat your oven to 350°F. Remove the hot pockets from their packaging, discarding the sleeve. Place the hot pockets on a baking sheet or some aluminum foil. Once your oven is up to temperature, place the hot pockets inside and bake for 28-30 minutes.

It's important to let your hot pockets stand for a couple of minutes after removing them from the oven, as they will be extremely hot. This waiting period also allows the cooking process to be completed.

If you're cooking from frozen, the cooking time remains the same. However, if you're cooking in a microwave, the cooking time will differ.

Cooking time in an air fryer: 15 minutes

Cooking Ham and Cheese Hot Pockets in an Air Fryer

Ingredients

You will need the following ingredients to make ham and cheese hot pockets:

• Ham
• Cheese
• Tortillas or dough (flour, Greek yoghurt, and salt)
• Butter (optional)

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Tortillas or Dough

If you are using tortillas, stack them on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave for about 20 seconds to warm them up. This will prevent them from cracking when you fold them.

If you are making your own dough, mix flour, Greek yoghurt, and salt in a bowl until a sticky dough forms. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and divide it into pieces—this will determine how many hot pockets you can make. Roll each piece into a rectangle, trimming the corners with a knife to make them straight.

Step 2: Fill and Seal the Hot Pockets

Place your filling of ham and cheese in the centre of each tortilla or dough rectangle. You can also add other ingredients like mustard or different types of cheese. Fold the outer edges of the tortilla or dough towards the centre, and then fold it in half, pressing the edges together to seal. You can use a fork to pinch the edges closed.

Step 3: Brush with Butter (Optional)

If desired, brush the top of each hot pocket with softened butter and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Press the cheese into the butter so that it sticks.

Step 4: Cook in the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to between 360-380°F. Place the hot pockets in the air fryer basket, making sure they are seam-side down and not touching. Cook for around 15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the hot pockets are golden brown. You may need to cook them in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the hot pockets from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Homemade ham and cheese pockets: make your own dough

If you're craving a hot pocket, why not try making your own dough? It's easier than you think and you can freeze any leftovers. Here's a recipe for homemade ham and cheese pockets using homemade dough.

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 1 and 1/3 cups (320ml) warm water (between 100-110°F/38-43°C)
• 2 and 1/4 teaspoons (7g) Platinum Yeast from Red Star (1 standard packet)
• 1 tablespoon (13g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil, plus more for pan and brushing on dough
• 3 and 1/2 cups (about 450g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1 large egg beaten with 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)

For the filling:

• 8 slices cheese or 2 cups shredded (sharp cheddar works well)
• 16 thin slices deli ham or 2 cups cubed ham

Method

• Whisk the warm water, yeast, and sugar together in a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook or paddle attachment. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes.
• Add the olive oil, salt, and flour. Mix on low speed for 2 minutes until combined.
• Knead the dough for 5 minutes by hand or in the mixer. If the dough becomes too sticky, add a little more flour. It should feel a little soft but bounce back slowly when poked.
• Grease a large bowl with oil or non-stick spray and place the dough inside, turning it to coat all sides in the oil. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise at room temperature for 60-90 minutes or until doubled in size.
• Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
• Punch down the dough to release the air, then turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Slice the dough in half and then cut each half into quarters, so you have 8 pieces total.
• Flatten each piece of dough into a rectangle (about 6 inches by 4 inches). Place the cheese and ham on one side of each rectangle, then fold the dough over to enclose the filling. Pinch the edges to seal, then use a fork to crimp them.
• Brush the tops and sides of each pocket with egg wash, then cut 2-3 slits in the tops for air vents.
• Bake the pockets for 20-25 minutes, rotating the baking sheet once or twice during cooking, until the tops are golden brown.
• Let the pockets cool on the pan before serving.

Tips

• You can use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast, but the rise time will be longer.
• You can make the pockets through step 5, then cover and refrigerate for up to 1 day before baking.
• You can also freeze the baked pockets. Wrap them individually in aluminum foil and freeze, then microwave for 2-3 minutes or bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20 minutes.

Frequently asked questions