Crispy on the outside, savory and juicy on the inside—empanadas are one of those comfort foods everyone loves. The best part? You won’t believe how easy this empanadas recipe is! With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can make delicious, homemade empanadas that rival your favorite bakery or restaurant.
Perfect for family dinners, parties, or meal prep, this recipe works beautifully for home cooks in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. 🥟✨
Why This Empanadas Recipe Works
Simple dough (no special equipment)
Easy, flavorful filling
Baked or fried—your choice
Beginner-friendly steps
Customizable with meat, cheese, or veggies
Once you try it, this will become your go-to empanadas recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dough
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
1 large egg
3/4 cup cold water (add gradually)
For the Filling (Classic Beef)
1 tablespoon oil
1/2 lb (225 g) ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional add-ins: olives, raisins, boiled eggs, or cheese
Step-by-Step: The Easiest Empanadas Ever
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.
Cut in butter until crumbly.
Add egg and slowly mix in cold water until a soft dough forms.
Knead lightly, wrap, and rest for 20 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Cook onion until soft, then add garlic.
Add ground beef and cook until browned.
Season with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Let filling cool completely.
Cooling the filling prevents soggy empanadas.
Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas
Roll dough thin and cut into circles (4–5 inches).
Spoon filling onto one side.
Fold over, seal edges, and crimp with a fork.
Step 4: Bake or Fry
To Bake (Healthier Option):
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
Brush empanadas with egg wash
Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden
To Fry (Traditional Option):
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C)
Fry until golden and crisp (2–3 minutes per side)
Easy Empanada Variations
Cheese Empanadas
Fill with mozzarella, cheddar, or queso blanco.
Chicken Empanadas
Use shredded chicken with spices and a little cream cheese.
Vegetarian Empanadas
Try mushrooms, spinach, lentils, or potatoes.
Pro Tips for Perfect Empanadas
Don’t overfill
Seal edges tightly
Rest dough for easier rolling
Always cool filling before assembling
These small steps make a big difference.
How to Store & Freeze Empanadas
Refrigerate: Up to 3 days
Freeze unbaked: Up to 3 months
Bake from frozen: Add 5–7 extra minutes
Perfect for meal prep and parties.
Why Everyone Loves This Empanadas Recipe
Because it’s:
Quick
Flexible
Family-friendly
Packed with flavor
Seriously, you won’t believe how easy this empanadas recipe is until you see how fast they disappear from the table.
Final Thoughts
Empanadas don’t have to be complicated. With simple dough, an easy filling, and flexible cooking options, you can enjoy fresh, homemade empanadas any time. Whether baked or fried, meat-filled or vegetarian, this recipe delivers delicious results every time.