Empanada Cactus recipe served on a plate, by Cheff Che Cafe & Bar
Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsCheff Che Cafe & BarEmpanada Cactus Recipe

Empanada Cactus Recipe

Time1h 30m
Serves6

Make Empanada Cactus Recipe in just 1h 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Dough

Egg Wash

Method

Dough Preparation

  1. 1

    Make the Dough

    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  2. 2

    Add Water

    Gradually add the cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Filling Preparation

  1. 3

    Cook the Filling

    In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and jalapeño, and cook for another 2 minutes.

  2. 4

    Combine Ingredients

    Stir in the cooked and chopped nopal cactus, cilantro, cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the cheese melts. Remove from heat and let cool.

Assembling Empanadas

  1. 5

    Roll Out the Dough

    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut circles about 5 inches in diameter.

  2. 6

    Fill the Empanadas

    Place 1-2 tablespoons of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, using a fork to crimp the edges.

  3. 7

    Prepare the Egg Wash

    In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush the egg wash over the tops of the empanadas.

  4. 8

    Bake the Empanadas

    Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

More from Cheff Che Cafe & Bar