Introduction

Ahhh, empanadas. Just saying the word makes my stomach rumble! These golden, crispy, flavor-packed pockets of joy are a staple in so many cultures—and for good reason! Whether they’re baked to perfection or fried into crispy bliss, empanadas are the kind of comfort food that hugs you from the inside out.

I still remember my first bite of a freshly made empanada—flaky crust, juicy filling, a hint of spice, and that perfect balance of crunch and chew. I was hooked! And ever since, I’ve been on a mission to perfect the ultimate empanada recipe.

But here’s the best part: empanadas aren’t just delicious, they’re also crazy versatile! Stuff ‘em with meat, cheese, veggies, or even something sweet—the possibilities are endless. And the best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make! Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a seasoned cook, once you master the basics, you’ll be cranking out homemade empanadas like a pro.

So, let’s get into it—everything you need to know about empanadas, from their history to pro tips, plus a foolproof recipe that’ll have you making them on repeat!

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

I could probably list a hundred reasons, but let’s keep it snappy! Here’s why you NEED to try this empanada recipe:

Super Easy to Make – Even if you’re new to the kitchen, you’ve got this! Trust me.
Endlessly Customizable – Beef, chicken, cheese, veggies… even Nutella! You can go savory, sweet, spicy—whatever your heart desires.
Great for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and freeze them for later. Dinner = sorted!
Perfect for Any Occasion – Parties, snacks, lunchboxes, game day treats… there’s never a bad time for empanadas.

Basically, once you make these, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.

What Makes a Good Empanada?

Not all empanadas are created equal! A truly great empanada needs:

Perfect Dough – It should be light, flaky, and crispy, but sturdy enough to hold the filling. No sad, soggy dough here!
Flavorful Filling – Juicy, well-seasoned, and never dry. The right balance of moisture is KEY!
The Right Seal – A solid seal ensures the filling stays inside and doesn’t leak out while cooking. Crimping or using a fork works wonders!
Cooking Method Magic – Baking gives you golden crispiness with less oil, while frying takes the crunch factor to the next level. Both have their perks!

If you nail these, you’re in for an empanada that’s chef’s kiss perfect!

The Cultural Significance of Empanadas

Empanadas aren’t just a snack—they’re a whole vibe! They hold deep cultural significance in Latin America, Spain, and the Philippines. They’re the star of family gatherings, street food stalls, and festivals alike!

In Argentina, they are a must-have at parties. In the Philippines, they’re often filled with a sweet-savory mix and enjoyed as a hearty merienda (afternoon snack). And in Spain, where they originated, they’re part of centuries-old culinary traditions.

Basically, no matter where you go, empanadas tell a delicious story of heritage, family, and flavor!

A Brief History of Empanadas

So where did these little pockets of joy come from? Let’s take a trip back in time:

The Origins of Empanadas

It’s believed that empanadas originated in Spain, specifically in Galicia, during the Moorish occupation. They were inspired by Arabic pastries like samosas (yep, those crispy Indian delights!). The first written recipe? Found in a 1520 Spanish cookbook!

How Empanadas Spread Across the World

When Spanish colonizers set sail, empanadas hitched a ride! They made their way to Latin America and the Philippines, where they evolved based on local flavors. That’s why you’ll find them with beef and olives in Argentina, seafood in Chile, and even sweet ones in the Philippines!

Empanadas Today

Fast forward to today, and empanadas are EVERYWHERE. Street food, home-cooked meals, fancy restaurants—you name it. They’re a true global favorite!

Ingredients for Empanadas

For the Dough

All-purpose flour
Butter (cold!)
Egg
Salt
Water
Vinegar (yes, it helps with texture!)

For the Filling

Classic Beef Filling:

Ground beef
Onions & garlic
Paprika & cumin
Olives & hard-boiled eggs (optional, but traditional!)

Variations:

Chicken, shrimp, or pork
Cheese & veggies
Sweet fillings like apple, cinnamon, or Nutella

Equipment You’ll Need

Mixing bowls
Rolling pin
Pastry cutter or knife
Baking sheet (if baking)
Deep fryer or pan (if frying)
Fork (for sealing)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1: Making the Dough

Mix flour, salt, and butter until crumbly.
Add egg, vinegar, and water; knead into a dough.
Let it rest—it’s worth the wait!

2: Preparing the Filling

Cook the meat, spices, and veggies until flavorful.
Let it cool before assembling (this helps with sealing!).

3: Assembling the Empanadas

Roll out dough, cut circles.
Add filling, fold, and crimp the edges.

4: Cooking

Baking: Brush with egg wash, bake until golden.
Frying: Heat oil, fry until deep golden perfection.

How to Tell When Empanadas Are Done

Nothing is worse than biting into an empanada only to realize the dough is still raw or the filling isn’t quite right. So, how do you know when your empanadas are cooked to perfection? Let’s break it down based on the cooking method you choose.

For Baked Empanadas

If you’re baking, you’ll want to watch for a few key signs to ensure they’re fully cooked. First, the crust should turn a beautiful golden brown—no pale, undercooked dough here! The edges should look slightly crisp, and if you tap the empanada lightly, it should sound hollow rather than doughy.

A great trick to check for doneness is to look at the bottom of the empanada—if it’s golden brown and firm, you’re good to go! If it’s still soft and pale, let it bake for a few more minutes.

Another telltale sign? That irresistible smell! When your kitchen is filled with the mouthwatering aroma of baked dough and savory filling, chances are your empanadas are almost ready.

For Fried Empanadas

Frying them takes the crisp factor up a notch, but getting them just right requires a little know-how. Your empanadas should be a deep golden brown on all sides. If they’re still looking too pale, they need more time in the oil.

Be careful, though—overfrying can lead to a tough, overly crunchy crust. The key is to fry them just until they’re crispy on the outside but still tender inside. A good rule of thumb is about 2 to 4 minutes per side, depending on the size and thickness of your dough.

And here’s a pro tip: If your oil isn’t hot enough, your empanadas will absorb too much oil and turn greasy instead of crispy. Keep the oil temperature at around 350–375°F (175–190°C) for the best results!

Checking the Internal Temperature

If you want to be extra sure your empanadas are fully cooked, check the internal temperature with a food thermometer. The filling should reach at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat, especially if you’re using raw meat in your filling.

So, whether you bake or fry, watch for that golden color, crispy edges, and fully cooked filling, and you’ll have perfect empanada every time!

Variations & Toppings

One of the BEST things about empanadas? They’re ridiculously versatile! You can change up the fillings, experiment with different doughs, and even get creative with toppings and dipping sauces. Let’s take a look at some popular variations and tasty add-ons.

Regional Empanada Variations

Different countries have their own special take on empanadas, and each one is unique in flavor, texture, and ingredients.

Argentine Empanadas – These are typically baked and filled with beef, onions, paprika, cumin, and sometimes olives or raisins. Some versions include hard-boiled eggs for extra richness!
Chilean Empanadas – These are similar to Argentine empanada but often feature seafood, cheese, or a slightly sweeter dough.
Filipino Empanadas – Filipino-style empanada use a slightly sweet, flaky crust and are commonly filled with shredded chicken or pork, carrots, and green papaya.
Colombian & Venezuelan Empanadas – These are often made with corn-based dough instead of wheat flour and deep-fried for a crispier bite. The filling can range from shredded beef to black beans and cheese.
Spanish Empanadas (Empanada Gallega) – Unlike the hand-held empanadas we’re used to, Spain’s version is often made as a large, pie-like dish filled with tuna, peppers, and tomatoes.

Tasty Toppings & Dips

Empanadas are already delicious on their own, but the right toppings or dips can take them to the next level!

Chimichurri Sauce – This garlicky, herby sauce from Argentina is a match made in heaven for empanadas!
Salsa or Guacamole – Fresh, tangy, and full of flavor—perfect for dipping!
Spicy Aioli – A creamy, garlicky, spicy sauce that adds extra richness to every bite.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt – If you want something cool and refreshing, a little sour cream or yogurt can balance out the bold flavors of the filling.

Whether you go traditional or put your own spin on things, there’s no wrong way to enjoy an empanada!

Nutritional Insights

Okay, let’s be real—empanadas aren’t exactly “health food,” but that doesn’t mean you can’t make a few tweaks to lighten them up!

Calories & Macronutrients

A classic beef empanada usually contains around 250–300 calories, with a mix of protein, fat, and carbs. The exact nutrition breakdown depends on the filling and cooking method. Fried empanadas tend to have more fat, while baked versions are slightly lighter.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking for a more nutritious version, here are a few easy swaps:

Whole Wheat Dough – Using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour adds more fiber and nutrients.
Air Frying Instead of Deep Frying – You’ll still get a crispy crust with way less oil!
Lean Proteins – Opt for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based fillings instead of fattier meats.
Veggie-Packed Fillings – Adding spinach, mushrooms, or beans can up the fiber and nutrient content.

So, while empanadas are definitely a treat, they can be enjoyed in a balanced diet—especially when paired with fresh sides like a salad or grilled veggies!

Pro Tips & Tricks

Want to take your empanadas to the next level? Keep these tips in mind:

For Perfect Dough: Keep your ingredients COLD, and don’t overwork the dough—it should be soft and easy to roll out.
For Juicy Filling: Let the filling cool before assembling. Hot filling = soggy dough = disaster.
For a Crispy Finish: Brush baked empanadas with egg wash before popping them in the oven for that irresistible golden glow.
For the Best Seal: Use a fork to crimp the edges or try the classic “repulgue” fold (the fancy twist you see on traditional empanadas).

Once you master these tricks, you’ll be making empanadas like a pro in no time!

Storage & Health Tips

Homemade empanadas are SO good that they rarely last long, but if you do have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them.

How to Store Empanadas

Fridge: Store cooked empanadas in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Freezer: Uncooked empanadas can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just place them on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag.

How to Reheat Empanadas

Oven: The best method! Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until crispy and warm.
Air Fryer: A quick and easy way to get crispy empanadas—heat at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
Microwave: Works in a pinch, but they might get a little soft. Heat in short bursts to avoid drying out the filling.

FAQs

What Are Empanadas Made Of?

Empanadas consist of a pastry shell filled with a variety of ingredients, commonly meat, cheese, vegetables, or even sweet fillings like fruit or chocolate.

Are Empanadas the Same as Cornish Pasties?

Not exactly! While both are stuffed pastries, Cornish pasties come from England and usually contain beef, potatoes, and onions, whereas empanadas have more diverse fillings and seasoning styles.

Are Empanadas from Spain or Mexico?

Empanadas originated in Spain but were brought to Mexico and other Latin American countries, where they evolved into different regional varieties.

Where Did Empanadas Originally Come From?

The earliest known empanadas trace back to Galicia, Spain, in the 1500s, influenced by Middle Eastern cuisine (think samosas!).

Before You Go…

Craving more goodness? Check out my recipe for Beef Enchiladas next. It’s just as comforting, indulgent, and easy to make. You’re going to love it! ❤️
Now go whip up some empanadas! You’re gonna LOVE them! 🎉🔥