Empanadas – those savory, flaky pastries filled with a variety of delicious ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a snack, an appetizer, or even a main course, empanadas are the perfect solution. And with so many different fillings to choose from, there’s something for everyone.
From classic beef and cheese combinations to more adventurous options like shrimp and crab or roasted vegetables, the possibilities are endless. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 flavorful empanada recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.
So, whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered with these easy-to-make and mouth-watering empanadas.
Beef and Cheese Empanadas
These flaky pastry pockets are filled with tender beef, melted cheese, and a hint of spices. Perfect for a snack or as an appetizer, they’re sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 pound ground beef
– 1/2 onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into small pieces.
3. In a separate bowl, mix beef, onion, garlic, and cheese.
4. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into squares, approximately 5 inches per side.
5. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture onto one half of each square, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
6. Fold other half over filling and press edges together with a fork to seal.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Mushroom Empanadas
These Chicken and Mushroom Empanadas are a twist on the classic Latin American pastry, filled with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a quick dinner 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
– Filling ingredients: (see below)
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Filling:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and cold butter. Use a pastry blender or fingers to work the butter into the flour until crumbly.
3. Gradually add ice-cold water, stirring with a fork until dough forms.
4. Divide dough in half, shape into disks, and wrap each in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
5. Roll out one disk of dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into squares or circles.
6. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each pastry piece. Fold pastry over filling to form a triangle or square shape, pressing edges together to seal.
7. Brush tops with vegetable oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Spinach and Ricotta Empanadas
Experience the flavors of Italy with these crispy and savory empanadas filled with spinach and ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
+ 8 ounces ricotta cheese
+ 1 egg, beaten
+ Salt and pepper to taste
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and oil.
3. Gradually add warm water until dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes.
4. Divide dough into 8 equal pieces.
5. Roll out each piece into a thin circle.
6. Place 1 tablespoon of spinach-ricotta filling in the center of each circle.
7. Fold and press edges to seal, forming a half-moon shape.
8. Brush tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar (optional).
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork and Chorizo Empanadas
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful Pork and Chorizo Empanadas, perfect for a quick bite or party appetizer. This recipe combines the rich flavors of pork and chorizo with crispy empanada dough.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pound ground pork
– 2 tablespoons chorizo sausage, crumbled
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground pork, chorizo, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the beaten egg and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Roll out the empanada dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
5. Place a tablespoon or two of the pork mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges together with a fork to seal.
7. Fry the empanadas in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total (5-6 minutes per batch)
Cheesy Jalapeño Empanadas
A flavorful twist on traditional empanadas, these cheesy jalapeño empanadas are a perfect combination of spicy and savory.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2-3 diced jalapeños
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out empanada dough to desired thickness.
3. In a small bowl, mix together cheese, cilantro, and jalapeños.
4. Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/4 inch border around edges.
5. Fold other half of dough over filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for golden glaze.
7. Place empanadas on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Empanadas
These sweet potato and black bean empanadas are a delicious twist on traditional Latin American pastries, combining the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavor of black beans. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Vegetable shortening or lard for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together sweet potatoes, black beans, onion, garlic, olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Spoon a small amount of filling onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
5. Brush edges with water and fold the other half over the filling to form a triangle or circle shape.
6. Press edges together and use a fork to crimp.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Empanadas
These empanadas combine the sweetness of shrimp and crab with a crispy, buttery pastry crust. Perfect as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup cooked shrimp, diced
– 1/4 cup lump crab meat, flaked
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together shrimp, crab meat, olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Spoon the shrimp-crab mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for glaze.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Cheese Empanadas
These savory pastries are a delicious twist on traditional empanadas, filled with the classic combination of ham and melted cheese. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they’re easy to make and 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 grated cheddar cheese
– 2 slices of cooked ham, diced
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the dough until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add water, stirring with a fork until dough forms a ball.
4. Divide dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into a disk shape.
5. Place a spoonful of ham and cheese in the center of each disk. Fold dough over filling to form a half-moon shape, pressing edges together with a fork.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake empanadas for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Lentil Empanadas
These tender and savory empanadas are packed with nutritious lentils, onions, garlic, and spices. Perfect for snacking or as a main dish, they’re sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup vegan butter, melted
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Empanada wrappers (homemade or store-bought)
– Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together lentils, flour, melted vegan butter, water, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired size.
4. Place each portion onto an empanada wrapper, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Fold the dough over filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caprese Empanadas with Mozzarella and Tomato
Caprese Empanadas with Mozzarella and Tomato – A Twist on the Classic Italian Salad
These bite-sized empanadas combine the flavors of a Caprese salad (fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil) in a crispy pastry package.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into 4-inch squares.
3. Place a slice of mozzarella, a few pieces of tomato, and some basil in the center of each square.
4. Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or a circle, pressing edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp edges.
5. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Place empanadas on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pulled Pork Empanadas with BBQ Sauce
Pulled Pork Empanadas with BBQ Sauce: A Twist on Classic Comfort Food
These savory empanadas are filled with tender pulled pork, tangy BBQ sauce, and crispy pastry. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing snack or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pound pulled pork
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced onions, chopped cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out empanada dough to desired thickness.
3. Spoon about 1/4 cup of pulled pork onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
4. Drizzle with BBQ sauce and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Fold dough in half over filling, pressing edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Corn and Cheese Empanadas
These sweet and savory empanadas are perfect for snacking or as a side dish. Flaky pastry filled with a creamy corn and cheese mixture is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together corn kernels, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter.
3. Roll out empanada dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Place spoonfuls of the corn mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press edges together with a fork to seal.
6. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Tinga Empanadas
These tender empanadas are filled with shredded chicken cooked in a spicy tomato-based sauce, wrapped in flaky pastry and fried to perfection. A delicious twist on traditional empanadas, this recipe is perfect for a quick snack or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup tomato paste
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a pan, cook the chicken with tomato paste, onion, cilantro, jalapeño, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper until the chicken is shredded and the sauce has thickened.
3. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
4. Roll out each piece into a thin circle.
5. Place about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture in the center of each circle.
6. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a triangle or square shape.
7. Fry the empanadas in hot oil until golden brown, then drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Dessert Empanadas
These sweet empanadas combine the flavors of tender apples, warm cinnamon, and flaky pastry to create a delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a unique dessert to serve at your next gathering or just want a sweet treat to enjoy on its own, these Apple Cinnamon Empanadas are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together sliced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Roll out empanada dough to desired thickness.
4. Place apple mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Fold dough over filling, pressing edges to seal.
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
Buffalo Chicken Empanadas
Elevate your snack game with these mouth-watering empanadas filled with spicy buffalo chicken, creamy blue cheese, and crispy pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, buffalo sauce, and butter until well combined.
3. Roll out empanada dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into squares or use a cookie cutter for shapes.
4. Place a tablespoon of the chicken mixture in the center of each square. Top with crumbled blue cheese.
5. Fold the dough over the filling, pressing edges together to seal. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Bake empanadas for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna and Olive Empanadas
Experience the fusion of savory tuna and briny olives wrapped in flaky pastry. These empanadas make for a perfect snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/4 cup of pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Water for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the empanada dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, mix together the tuna and olives.
4. Place small spoonfuls of the tuna-olive mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Brush the edges with water and fold the other half of the dough over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
6. Press the edges together to seal the empanada.
7. Brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Veggie Empanadas
Roasted Veggie Empanadas: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe
Bring the flavors of Latin America into your kitchen with this easy-to-make recipe for Roasted Veggie Empanadas. With a crispy exterior and a savory filling, these empanadas are perfect as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the empanada dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of roasted vegetables onto one half of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the vegetables.
5. Brush the edges with beaten egg and fold the other half of the dough over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
6. Press the edges together to seal the empanada.
7. Brush the tops with cooking oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chocolate and Banana Empanadas
Elevate your snack game with these indulgent empanadas, filled with sweet banana and rich chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 1 ounce high-quality dark chocolate, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Add melted butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Divide dough into 6-8 equal pieces.
5. Roll out each piece into a thin circle.
6. Place 1-2 slices of banana and 1/4 teaspoon of melted chocolate in the center of each circle.
7. Fold dough over filling, forming a triangle or square shape.
8. Brush edges with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
10. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lobster and Cream Cheese Empanadas
Lobster and Cream Cheese Empanadas: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Pastry
These flaky empanadas are filled with succulent lobster, tangy cream cheese, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a special occasion or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 pound cooked lobster meat
+ 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
+ 1/2 teaspoon paprika
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, butter, ice-cold water, and salt. Mix until dough forms.
3. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Cut into squares approximately 5 inches per side.
5. Place a spoonful of lobster filling in the center of each square.
6. Fold empanadas in half and press edges together with a fork.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Beef and Potato Empanadas
These empanadas pack a punch with the combination of spicy beef, tender potatoes, and crispy pastry. Perfect for a snack or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
3. Add onion, garlic, chili flakes, and cumin. Cook until the mixture is fully incorporated.
4. Boil potatoes until tender, then drain and add to the beef mixture.
5. Roll out the dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the filling onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
6. Fold the other half over the filling and press edges to seal. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with water).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavors of Latin America with these 20 mouthwatering empanadas recipes! From savory beef and cheese to sweet potato and black bean, there’s something for every occasion. Satisfy your cravings with cheesy jalapeño or ham and cheese, or go vegan with lentil or roasted veggie options. Impress your guests with pulled pork and BBQ sauce or lobster and cream cheese empanadas. And don’t forget the desserts – apple cinnamon and chocolate and banana are sure to please. With these recipes, you’ll never run out of delicious ideas!
