Get ready to embark on a culinary journey around the world with these 20 flavorful empanada recipes! Whether you’re looking for a savory snack to accompany your favorite dipping sauce or a sweet treat to satisfy your dessert cravings, we’ve got you covered. From classic beef and chicken varieties to more adventurous options like jalapeño popper and Thai curry, there’s an empanada recipe on this list that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Classic Beef Empanadas
These savory pastries are a staple in Latin American cuisine, filled with tender beef and spices, wrapped in flaky pastry dough. Perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Roll out empanada dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into circles or squares.
6. Place a spoonful of beef mixture in the center of each dough piece. Fold in half and press edges together to seal.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Chicken Empanadas
These flaky, cheesy empanadas are filled with shredded chicken and melted mozzarella for a mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 cup shredded cooked chicken breast
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add warm water, stirring with a fork until dough comes together.
4. Divide dough in half. Roll out each half into a thin sheet.
5. Place 1/2 cup shredded chicken and 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese on one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
6. Fold the other half of the dough over filling, pressing edges to seal. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Place empanadas on baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Chorizo and Potato Empanadas
Spicy Chorizo and Potato Empanadas Recipe
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these flavorful empanadas filled with spicy chorizo and tender potatoes!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup cooked chorizo, crumbled
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Optional: cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine flour, salt, and warm water. Mix until dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then divide into 8-10 equal portions.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
5. Place 1/4 cup of chorizo-potato mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
6. Fold the other half over and press edges to seal.
7. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze (optional).
8. Bake empanadas for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable and Black Bean Empanadas
Savor the flavors of Latin America with these tender and flavorful empanadas filled with a mix of sautéed vegetables and black beans. Perfect for snacking or as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients (below)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Filling:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 zucchini, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and vegetable oil.
3. Gradually add warm water, kneading until dough forms.
4. Divide dough into 6-8 portions.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
6. Place 1/4 cup filling in center of each circle.
7. Fold empanada in half and press edges to seal.
8. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Pulled Pork Empanadas with BBQ Sauce
Transform your favorite pulled pork into a flavorful empanada, perfect for a unique twist on game day snacks or dinner. These tender and juicy pastries are filled with slow-cooked pulled pork, wrapped in flaky pastry, and served with a tangy drizzle of BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups of pulled pork
– 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon of water
– Optional: shredded cheese, diced onions, and chopped cilantro for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out empanada dough to desired thickness.
3. Place a spoonful of pulled pork in the center of each dough circle.
4. Fold and seal the edges of the dough, pressing gently to seal.
5. Brush tops with beaten egg mixed with water.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Drizzle with BBQ sauce before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Cheese Empanadas
Elevate your snack game with these flaky, cheesy, and spinach-packed empanadas. Perfect for a quick bite or as an appetizer for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
+ 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
+ 1 egg, beaten
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add shortening and mix until crumbly.
3. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a dough forms.
4. Divide dough into 6-8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into disks.
5. Place a spoonful of spinach-cheese mixture in the center of each disk. Fold empanada in half, pressing edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Empanadas
Shrimp and Crab Empanadas: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Latin American Treat
These savory empanadas are filled with succulent shrimp, sweet crab, and spices, wrapped in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In a bowl, combine cooked shrimp, crab meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Roll out empanada dough to desired thickness. Cut into squares or use a cookie cutter for shapes.
5. Place a tablespoon of the shrimp-crab mixture in the center of each square. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or shape, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake empanadas for 15-20 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Plantain and Cheese Empanadas
Sweet Plantain and Cheese Empanadas: A Delicious Twist on a Classic
Empanadas are a staple in many Latin American cuisines, but this sweet plantain and cheese variation adds a delightful twist. These flaky pastry pockets are filled with caramelized plantains and melted cheese, making them the perfect treat for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe plantains
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Pastry dough for empanadas (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Peel the plantains and slice them into 1-inch pieces. Caramelize the plantains in a pan with butter until golden brown.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together flour and salt. Gradually add the melted butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the pastry dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes for empanadas.
5. Place a spoonful of caramelized plantains and cheese in the center of each shape. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a half-moon shape, and press edges together with a fork.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Cheese Empanadas
These flaky, buttery empanadas are filled with the perfect combination of salty ham and melted cheese. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 6 slices of cooked ham
+ 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
+ 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add warm water, stirring with a fork until dough comes together in a ball.
3. Divide dough into 6-8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into a disk shape.
4. Place 1-2 slices of ham and 1/4 cup shredded cheese onto the center of each disk. Fold empanada in half and press edges together to seal.
5. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Cook empanadas on a preheated baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mushroom and Goat Cheese Empanadas
These savory pastries combine the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the creamy richness of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a flaky crust. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake)
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and butter. Use a pastry blender or fingers to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Spoon a small amount of mushroom mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border. Top with a sprinkle of goat cheese.
6. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press edges together to seal.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lamb and Mint Empanadas
These savory empanadas combine the rich flavors of lamb and fresh mint, perfect for a unique snack or appetizer. Inspired by Middle Eastern cuisine, this recipe adds a refreshing twist to traditional empanadas.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lamb ground meat
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add warm water and mix until dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm). Cut into squares, approximately 4 inches (10 cm) per side.
4. Place a spoonful of lamb mixture in the center of each square. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a triangle or a cylinder shape. Press edges together to seal.
5. Brush tops with olive oil and beaten egg for glaze. Sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar (if using).
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Empanadas
These bite-sized empanadas combine the bold flavors of buffalo chicken with the crispy texture of a pastry crust, perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sour cream, diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, buffalo sauce, and melted butter.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Spoon a small amount of the chicken mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the filling.
6. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press edges to seal.
7. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) for golden color.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin and Ricotta Empanadas
Pumpkin and Ricotta Empanadas: A Delicious Twist on Traditional Latin American Pastries
These sweet and savory empanadas combine the flavors of pumpkin and ricotta cheese, perfect for a unique dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 8 ounces ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add shortening and mix until crumbly.
3. Gradually add warm water and mix until dough forms.
4. Divide dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
5. Roll out each piece into a thin circle.
6. Place 1 tablespoon of pumpkin puree in the center of each circle, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
7. Top with 1 tablespoon of ricotta cheese and drizzle with honey.
8. Fold dough over filling to form a triangle or a square shape.
9. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Jalapeño Popper Empanadas
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, cheesy, and spicy empanadas filled with the flavors of jalapeños and cream cheese. Perfect for a quick bite or party appetizer!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and shortening. Gradually add warm water, mixing until dough forms.
3. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and jalapeño pepper. Place small spoonfuls of the mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp edges.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake empanadas for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (optional) before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Empanadas with Fresh Mozzarella
Caprese Empanadas with Fresh Mozzarella: A Twist on a Classic Italian Dish
These bite-sized empanadas combine the flavors of Italy’s famous Caprese salad with the convenience of a pastry pocket. Perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the empanada dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Place a slice of mozzarella cheese in the center of each dough circle.
4. Top with a few cherry tomato halves and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Fold the dough over the filling, pressing edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with a little water and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Dessert Empanadas
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these crispy empanadas filled with tender apples and a hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada wrappers (about 12-15 pieces)
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together sliced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Place an empanada wrapper on a flat surface and brush the edges with melted butter.
4. Spoon about 1/4 cup of apple mixture onto the center of the wrapper.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or shape of your choice.
6. Press edges together to seal the empanada.
7. Place empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each one.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Empanadas
Savor the sweet and savory combination of caramelized onions and melted Gruyère cheese wrapped in flaky empanada dough.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. Roll out empanada dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Spoon a small amount of caramelized onions onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle grated Gruyère cheese over the onions.
6. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press edges to seal.
7. Brush with beaten egg for glaze.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Curry Chicken Empanadas
Elevate your snack game with these savory and aromatic empanadas, packed with the bold flavors of Thai curry chicken. Perfect for a quick bite or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada wrappers (about 12-15)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1/2 cup Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together chicken, curry paste, coconut milk, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay an empanada wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Brush edges with water and fold the wrapper into a triangle or shape of your choice. Press edges to seal.
5. Brush tops with vegetable oil and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Reuben Sandwich Empanadas
Reuben Sandwich Empanadas: A Twist on a Classic
Take your favorite Reuben sandwich ingredients and wrap them up in a flaky empanada crust for a game-changing snack or meal. This recipe combines the flavors of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing in a crispy pastry package.
Ingredients:
– 1 package empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 pound corned beef, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 2 tablespoons Swiss cheese, shredded
– 1 tablespoon Thousand Island dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out empanada dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing.
4. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a half-moon shape, and press edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) for golden color.
7. Bake empanadas for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Chocolate and Banana Empanadas
These chocolate and banana empanadas are the perfect fusion of sweet and savory, combining the classic Latin American pastry with creamy bananas and rich chocolate. Perfect for dessert or as a unique snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Powdered sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and sugar.
3. Add melted butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
5. Place sliced bananas and chocolate chips in the center of each empanada circle.
6. Fold the dough over the filling, pressing edges together with a fork.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Dust with powdered sugar (optional) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover a world of flavors with these 20 mouthwatering empanada recipes! From classic beef to pulled pork with BBQ sauce, and from spicy chorizo to sweet plantain and cheese, there’s an empanada for every occasion. Try cheesy chicken or vegetable and black bean for a vegetarian option. Meat lovers will enjoy ham and cheese, mushroom and goat cheese, or lamb and mint. And don’t forget the sweet treats – apple cinnamon dessert empanadas and chocolate and banana are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for savory or sweet, these recipes have got you covered!
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