If you’ve never had Pogaca before, get ready to fall in love at first bite. These soft, pillowy Turkish rolls are stuffed with the dreamiest cheese and potato filling and baked until golden and irresistible. They’re warm, fluffy, a little buttery, and honestly totally addictive. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or sneak one cold from the fridge (guilty!), these savory pastries are a feel-good favorite. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or snacking on with a cup of tea. Trust me, this one’s a keeper.

Why You’ll Love Pogaca – Turkish Rolls with Cheese and Potato Fillings
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Enjoy them warm, cold, on the go, or with a side salad for a light meal.

Budget-Friendly: Uses humble pantry ingredients to create something truly special.

Quick and Easy: The dough is simple and beginner-friendly no intimidating techniques here!

Customizable: You can play with the filling add herbs, swap the cheese, or mix in other veggies.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients

These golden rolls come together with just a few simple staples. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-Purpose Flour: The foundation for the soft, tender dough.

Milk: Adds richness and helps the dough stay soft and fluffy.

Oil: Olive oil or vegetable oil works great for moisture and texture.

Eggs: One goes into the dough, and one’s used for the shiny egg wash on top.

Baking Powder: No yeast needed this gives the dough its light lift.

Salt & Sugar: A small amount to balance flavors and enhance that perfect savory bite.

Boiled Potatoes: Mashed until smooth for a creamy, hearty filling.

Feta Cheese or White Cheese: Crumbly, salty cheese that melts beautifully with the potatoes.

Fresh Parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of herby brightness to the filling.

Sesame or Nigella Seeds: Optional but traditional—sprinkled on top for that classic bakery look.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Make the Dough: In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, egg, oil, and milk until a smooth, soft dough forms. Knead just until everything’s combined no need to overdo it.

Prepare the Filling: Mash the boiled potatoes and mix with crumbled cheese and chopped parsley. Taste and season if needed.

Shape the Rolls: Take a small piece of dough and flatten it into a circle with your hands. Spoon in the filling, fold it over like a half-moon, and pinch the edges to seal.

Arrange and Brush: Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame or nigella seeds.

Bake to Golden Perfection: Pop them into a preheated oven and bake until the tops are golden and the bottoms have that perfect crisp.

Cool and Enjoy: Let them cool just enough to handle though they’re pretty irresistible warm from the oven.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8–10 rolls
Calories per serving: 190 kcal

(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve Pogaca – Turkish Rolls with Cheese and Potato Fillings

These fluffy rolls are so versatile you can serve them in all kinds of ways:

• Breakfast or Brunch: With a boiled egg, olives, and tea for a full Turkish spread.
• Snack Time: Warmed up with a cup of coffee or ayran.
• Lunchbox Hero: Perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Side Dish: Serve alongside soups or salads for a comforting touch.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Don’t overstuff the dough or it may burst while baking just a spoonful does the trick.
• You can make the filling ahead of time and keep it in the fridge to save time.
• Leftovers? Store in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to bring back that bakery-fresh texture.
• Feel free to freeze the shaped, unbaked rolls and bake fresh whenever you need them.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use yeast instead of baking powder?
Yes, but that would make them more like traditional Turkish poğaça with a longer proofing time.

2. Can I skip the potatoes in the filling?
You sure can! Try just cheese and parsley or even a spinach and cheese combo.

3. What other cheeses can I use?
Try mozzarella, cheddar, or Turkish kasar for a melty option.

4. Can I freeze Pogaca?
Absolutely freeze before baking for the best results, then bake straight from frozen.

5. What should the dough feel like?
It should be soft but not sticky. Add a bit more flour if needed, but not too much.

6. How do I prevent the edges from opening while baking?
Seal them tightly by pressing and pinching, or use a fork to crimp the edges.

7. Can I make mini versions of these?
Yes! Just use smaller dough portions and adjust the baking time.

8. Is it okay to add spices to the filling?
Totally! Paprika, black pepper, or chili flakes can add a nice kick.

9. What if I don’t have sesame or nigella seeds?
They’re optional feel free to leave them out or use poppy seeds instead.

10. Can I make the dough the night before?
Yes! Just cover it and refrigerate. Bring to room temp before shaping and baking.

Conclusion

Pogaca is the kind of comfort food that just feels like home. Fluffy on the outside, rich and flavorful on the inside each roll is a soft, savory delight. With their simple ingredients and endless filling options, these Turkish rolls are the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you’re new to Turkish cuisine or already a fan, one bite of these will have you hooked.

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