Crispy Homemade Empanadas Recipe – Easy & Delicious!

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The Ultimate Crispy, Flaky, and Flavorful Empanadas You’ll Love!

Imagine biting into a golden, crispy empanada with a warm, savory filling that bursts with flavor in every bite. These handheld delights are the perfect mix of flaky crust and rich, juicy filling, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, packing lunch, or just craving a delicious snack, homemade empanadas are the answer.

Did you know that empanadas date back to medieval Spain and Portugal before spreading across Latin America and the Philippines? Each culture has its own twist, but one thing remains the same: they’re irresistibly good! Unlike store-bought versions, homemade empanadas let you control the ingredients, ensuring a fresher, tastier result. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make—no fancy skills required!

If you love our Birria Tacos, you’ll adore these empanadas. Both are packed with bold flavors, but empanadas bring that extra crunch and portability that makes them a favorite. Ready to make the crispiest, most delicious empanadas at home? Let’s get started!

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What Are Empanadas?

Ever wondered why these little pockets of joy are called empanadas? The name comes from the Spanish word empanar, which means “to wrap in bread.” And trust me, once you taste them, you’ll understand why they’ve been wrapped in love for centuries!

Are they pies? Are they turnovers? Well, they’re a little bit of both—flaky pastry stuffed with mouthwatering fillings, then baked or fried to perfection. Some say the way to a person’s heart is through their stomach, and empanadas are the golden ticket. Whether filled with spiced beef, cheesy chicken, or even sweet dulce de leche, there’s an empanada for every craving.

So why not roll up your sleeves and make your own? Skip the frozen aisle and impress your family with homemade empanadas that taste like they came straight from a bakery. Let’s dive into the recipe!

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Why You’ll Love This Empanada Recipe

1. Crispy, Flaky Perfection

The secret to the best empanadas? A buttery, golden crust that shatters with every bite. Our dough recipe ensures maximum crispiness without being dry, so you get that perfect balance of texture.

2. Budget-Friendly & Customizable

Making empanadas at home saves money compared to buying them pre-made. Plus, you can fill them with whatever you like—ground beef, shredded chicken, cheese, or even veggies for a vegetarian twist.

3. Bursting with Flavor

From savory spices to melty cheese, every bite is packed with deliciousness. The filling is seasoned to perfection, ensuring a rich, satisfying taste that keeps you coming back for more.

If you enjoyed our Easy Homemade Chicken Pot Pie Recipe, you’ll love how empanadas offer a handheld version with even more crunch. Ready to make your own? Let’s get cooking!

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How to Make Crispy Homemade Empanada Recipe

Quick Overview

This recipe is simple, delicious, and ready in under an hour. The dough comes together quickly, and the filling is packed with bold flavors. Whether baked or fried, these empanadas turn out crispy every time!

Prep Time: 30 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 50 mins

Key Ingredients for Empanada Recipe

For the Dough:

– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– ½ cup cold butter, cubed
– 1 egg
– ¼ cup ice water

For the Filling:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– ½ tsp chili powder
– ½ cup diced bell peppers
– ½ cup peas
– 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped (optional)
– Salt & pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Dough:
– In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
– Add egg and ice water, kneading until a smooth dough forms. Chill for 20 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling:
– Brown beef in a pan, then add onions, garlic, and spices.
– Stir in bell peppers, peas, and chopped egg (if using). Cook until tender.

3. Assemble the Empanadas:
– Roll out dough and cut into circles.
– Spoon filling onto each, fold, and crimp edges with a fork.

4. Cook:
– Bake at 375°F for 20-25 mins until golden.
– Or fry in hot oil until crispy (about 3-4 mins per side).

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What to Serve With This Recipe

Empanadas are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with the right sides takes them to the next level. A fresh avocado lime crema adds a creamy, tangy contrast, while a simple tomato salsa brings a refreshing kick. For a heartier meal, serve with cilantro lime rice or a crisp garden salad. And don’t forget a cold drink—mango agua fresca or an ice-cold beer balances the richness perfectly.

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Top Tips for Perfecting the Empanada Recipe

– Keep the dough cold for easier handling and flakier results.
– Don’t overfill—too much filling can cause leaks.
– Seal edges tightly to prevent bursting while cooking.
– Brush with egg wash before baking for extra crispiness.

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Storing and Reheating Tips

– Fridge: Store cooked empanadas in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– Freezer: Freeze unbaked empanadas on a tray before transferring to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes.
– Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to keep them crispy.

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People Also Ask

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Conclusion

Now that you’ve got the secrets to a perfect empanada recipe, it’s time to get cooking! Whether you bake or fry them, these crispy pockets of flavor will be a hit. Don’t forget to experiment with fillings—try chicken, cheese, or even sweet versions.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Easy Mexican Ground Beef Skillet – Ready in 20 Minutes! 🌮🔥. Happy cooking!

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