Empanadas: Golden, Savory Hand Pies from Latin Kitchens

What Are Empanadas?

Empanadas are delicious, golden-brown pastry pockets filled with savory or sweet fillings. Originating in Latin America and Spain, these hand pies are baked or fried and packed with flavor. From beef and chicken to cheese and fruit, empanadas are endlessly versatile and easy to love.

Ingredients for Classic Beef Empanadas

Here’s a simple, traditional version with a flavorful beef filling:

For the Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup cold water (more if needed)
• 1 tablespoon vinegar

For the Filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped green olives, boiled egg pieces, or raisins for traditional flavor

How to Make Empanadas

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in butter with a pastry cutter or fingers until crumbly. In a small bowl, whisk egg, water, and vinegar. Add wet mix to dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Knead briefly, wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until soft. Add beef and cook until browned. Stir in tomato sauce, cumin, and paprika. Simmer for 5–7 minutes. Let it cool before assembling.

Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas

Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into 4–6 inch circles. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle. Fold in half and seal edges by pressing with a fork. Brush with beaten egg for a golden crust.

Step 4: Bake or Fry

• To bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
• To fry: Heat oil in a deep skillet. Fry empanadas in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until crispy and golden. Drain on paper towels.

Tasty Variations

• Cheese & Spinach – use mozzarella and sautéed spinach
• Chicken & Salsa – shredded chicken with salsa or chipotle sauce
• Ham & Cheese – a creamy, melty favorite
• Sweet Empanadas – fill with guava, apple cinnamon, or Nutella for dessert
• Breakfast version – fill with scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese

Serving Suggestions

Serve empanadas with:

• Fresh chimichurri sauce
• Salsa or guacamole
• Sour cream or spicy aioli
• A simple green salad
• Sweet iced tea or horchata

Tips for Perfect Empanadas

• Seal well to prevent leaking during baking or frying
• Chill the dough to make it easier to work with
• Let filling cool completely to avoid soggy dough
• Double the batch and freeze extras for later
• Bake for a lighter option or fry for traditional crispiness

Storage and Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days
• Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep them crispy
• Freeze raw or baked empanadas and bake straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C)

Final Thoughts

Empanadas are the perfect handheld comfort food—flaky, savory, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re making a big batch for a party or a simple weeknight dinner, these golden pockets are always a crowd-pleaser.

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