Jul 14 2026

Empanadas Recipe

Time1h 30m
Serves12

Delicious baked or fried pastry filled with a variety of ingredients.

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Ingredients

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Dough

Method

Dough Preparation

  1. 1

    Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Mix well.

  2. 2

    Cut in Butter

    Cut the unsalted butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  3. 3

    Add Water

    Gradually add the cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Avoid overworking the dough.

  4. 4

    Chill the Dough

    Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Filling Preparation

  1. 5

    Cook the Filling

    In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

  2. 6

    Add Meat and Spices

    Add the ground beef (or chicken), garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through, about 10 minutes.

  3. 7

    Cool the Filling

    Remove from heat and let the filling cool to room temperature.

Assembling Empanadas

  1. 8

    Roll Out Dough

    On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a round cutter to cut out circles, about 4-5 inches in diameter.

  2. 9

    Fill Empanadas

    Place a tablespoon of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape.

  3. 10

    Seal Empanadas

    Press the edges together to seal, using a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.

  4. 11

    Egg Wash

    Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the empanadas for a golden finish.

Cooking Empanadas

  1. 12

    Preheat Oven or Heat Oil

    If baking, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). If frying, heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot over medium-high heat.

  2. 13

    Bake or Fry

    For baking, place empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. For frying, carefully place empanadas in hot oil and fry until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side.

  3. 14

    Drain and Serve

    If frying, drain on paper towels. Serve warm and enjoy!

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