Are you craving a delicious, handheld treat that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than these empanadas! Made with store-bought puff pastry for ultimate convenience, these savory pastries are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a delightful appetizer, or a fun weekend project. Get ready to experience the explosion of flavors in every bite – this empanada recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- 1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated puff pastry, thawed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or chicken, or a vegetarian alternative)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Empanadas Easy
Follow these simple steps for perfectly golden, delicious empanadas.
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Simmer the Flavor
Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Unfold the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into 6 squares. Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each square.
Step 4: Seal and Bake
Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle, pressing the edges firmly to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden brown finish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky.
Tips and Tricks for Empanada Success
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the filling.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with lentils, black beans, or your favorite vegetables.
- Get creative with fillings: Experiment with different fillings like spinach and cheese, chicken and mushroom, or even sweet fillings like apples and cinnamon.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Give the empanadas enough space to bake evenly.
- Serve warm: Empanadas are best served immediately after baking.
Variations: Beyond the Classic
This basic recipe is your starting point! Try these variations for exciting new flavor combinations:
- Spicy Empanadas: Add a diced jalapeño or some chopped serrano pepper to the filling for an extra kick.
- Cheese Empanadas: Fill them with a blend of your favorite cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella.
- Chicken Empanadas: Use ground chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Nutritional Information (per empanada, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
These values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
These easy-to-make empanadas are a delicious and satisfying meal or snack. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe guarantees a flavorful experience. Enjoy the deliciousness of homemade food with this simple yet impressive dish!