There is something inherently comforting about a golden, flaky pastry pocket stuffed with savory goodness. If you have ever wanted to master the art of the handheld meal, learning How to Make Empanadas is your first step toward kitchen glory. They are versatile, portable, and deceptively simple once you get the hang of the folding technique. Whether you bake them or fry them, these little parcels are the ultimate crowd-pleasers that bring massive flavor to the table.
What are Empanadas?
The word “empanada” comes from the Spanish verb empanar, which literally means to wrap or coat in bread. While we often associate them with Latin America, their roots actually trace back to Galicia, Spain, and Portugal. Historically, these were large pies cut into slices for laborers to carry to the fields, but they eventually evolved into the individual, portable pockets we adore today.
Around the world, you’ll find “hand pies” that share this same DNA. In Cornwall, England, it’s the Cornish Pasty—stuffed with beef and rutabaga. In India, the Samosa offers a spicy, fried triangular variation. Even the Italian Calzone or the Middle Eastern Fatayer fit into this global family of stuffed dough. Each culture uses what they have; in Argentina, you’ll find beef, onions, and olives, while in the Caribbean, they might be filled with spicy jerk chicken or seafood.
The beauty of the empanada is the dough. Depending on the region, it can be a simple flour-and-butter pastry, a cornmeal-based shell (common in Colombia and Venezuela), or even a yeast-risen bread dough. Some are baked for a lighter, flaky finish, while others are deep-fried until the crust shatters with every bite. Mastering the “repulgue”—the decorative braided edge—is often considered an art form in itself, identifying the filling inside without needing to cut it open. Whether you like them sweet, spicy, or loaded with cheese, empanadas prove that everything tastes better when it’s wrapped in dough.
14 of the Best Empanada Recipes I Know
Honestly, the possibilities are endless! But these are the recipes I return to time and again…
1. Pumpkin Empanadas
The portable version of pumpkin pie you never knew you needed is sweet and earthy, with just the right amount of spice and flaky pastry.
Recipe by: Yummy Addiction
2. Classic Beef Empanadas
Laylita is the undisputed queen of Latin flavors. I love this recipe because her dough is foolproof, and the traditional beef filling feels like a trip to Quito.
Recipe by: Laylita
3. Air Fryer Empanadas
I’m a fan of any recipe that saves time without sacrificing crunch. These are lean, mean, and perfectly spiced, making them a fantastic “guilt-free” weeknight dinner for busy families.
Recipe by: Skinny Taste
4. Pork Empanadas
They are very popular in my country – every housewife has her own special recipe. These meat pies are similar to hand pies or Cornish pasties, but much better as empanadas, in my opinion!
Recipe by: Yummy Addiction
5. Chili Cheese Empanadas
Chili con carne in a little hand pie? Count me in! These are delectably spicy, with the addition of a little cheese for gooeyness. Heaven.
Recipe by: The Beach House Kitchen
6. Cheese Empanadas
Sometimes, simple is best. This version focuses on a melty, gooey center that pulls apart beautifully. I love the addition of sugar for a sweet, rich treat – like cheesecake in a little pie.
Recipe by: Bakerita
7. Black Bean Vegan Empanadas
These vegan empanadas are filled with zesty black beans, packed with protein and hearty spices, and wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Full of flavor and surprisingly easy to make!
Recipe by: Connoisseur US Veg
8. Argentine Beef Empanadas
This is the quintessential Argentine version. The use of hard-boiled eggs and raisins might sound wild to some, but it provides the perfect sweet-and-savory balance I absolutely crave.
Recipe by: Spanish Sabores
9. Colombian Empanadas
These use a yellow cornmeal dough that is naturally gluten-free and stays incredibly crispy. I love the authentic beef and potato filling—it’s the ultimate Colombian street food experience.
Recipe by: My Colombian Recipes
10. Apple Empanadas
Who doesn’t love a portable dessert? These are essentially mini apple pies. I love the cinnamon-sugar dusting on the outside; it makes them feel so festive and special.
Recipe by: Salima’s Kitchen
11. Ham and Cheese Empanadas
This is like the ultimate “grown-up” hot pocket. It’s a classic combination that kids love, but the high-quality dough elevates it into something worthy of a fancy brunch spread.
Recipe by: Mission Food
12. Buffalo Chicken Empanadas
This is a fun, modern fusion. I love bringing these to game-day parties. They have all the spice of buffalo wings but are much cleaner to eat while cheering!
Recipe by: Food Fanatic
13. Puerto Rican Chicken Empanadas
The filling reminds me of a chicken pot pie, but in a much more convenient form. Loaded with lots of Latin spices, this chicken is anything but boring!
Recipe by: Delish DLites
14. Cherry Empanadas
These use a bright cherry filling that is perfectly tart. I like to serve these warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the most indulgent weekend treat.
Recipe by: Muy Bueno
Conclusion
Learning How to Make Empanadas is a rewarding kitchen project that pays off in delicious, portable leftovers (if they last that long!). Don’t worry if your first few folds look a little rustic; the flavor is what counts! Grab a rolling pin, pick your favorite filling, and get to work. You’ve got this!
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