Imagine biting into a warm, flaky pastry filled with gooey, melted cheese. These cheese empanadas bring comfort and joy with every mouthful. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a main dish, they’re simple to make and incredibly satisfying.
This recipe is a celebration of cheese in its finest form. With a crispy exterior and a cheesy, savory filling, these empanadas are sure to be a hit at any gathering. You can customize the filling with your favorite cheeses and spices to make them uniquely yours.
Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a delightful treat, these cheese empanadas are a fantastic choice. They are quick to prepare and can be baked or fried, giving you options based on your mood.
Visual Appeal of Cheese Empanadas
The sight of golden-brown cheese empanadas, freshly baked to a slight crisp, is a treat for the eyes. Each empanada boasts a beautifully flaky crust that encases a melting cheese filling, inviting you to take a bite. When cut in half, the oozy cheese spills out, showcasing its gooey texture, making it hard to resist.
A small bowl of zesty salsa or a favored dipping sauce sits invitingly beside the empanadas, adding a splash of color and an extra layer of flavor. The rustic table setting, complete with a colorful cloth, adds warmth and charm to the overall presentation, making it an ideal dish for gatherings or casual snacking.
Preparation of the Dough
The foundation of these empanadas is a well-prepared dough, combining flour, salt, and cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. This mixture is crucial as it provides that flaky, tender texture that everyone loves. Once combined, adding an egg and cold water will bring the dough together.
Letting the dough rest in the refrigerator for half an hour is essential. It allows the gluten to relax, ensuring that the empanadas maintain their structure while baking. This step contributes to the final product’s delightful texture, making each bite satisfying.
Creating the Perfect Filling
The filling is where the magic truly happens. Using a blend of cheeses, such as mozzarella and cheddar, ensures a rich, creamy filling that melts beautifully. Optional garlic and onion powders can enhance the flavor profile, adding depth to each empanada.
Mixing the cheeses well is vital; this ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Adjusting the seasoning according to your taste can make the filling tailor-made for your preferences, setting these empanadas apart from the usual fare.
Shaping the Empanadas
Once the filling is ready, it’s time to roll out the dough. Achieving the right thickness, about 1/8 inch, is crucial for a perfect crust. Using a cookie cutter or glass to cut circles allows for uniformity in size, making the empanadas visually appealing.
Filling and sealing the empanadas can be a fun experience. A tablespoon of the cheese mixture in the center of each circle, followed by folding and crimping the edges, adds a personal touch. The decorative crimping not only enhances the appearance but also ensures that the filling stays securely inside during cooking.
Cooking Options: Frying vs. Baking
Deciding how to cook your empanadas can influence the final outcome. Frying them in hot oil delivers a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft, cheesy filling. This method is quick and effective, providing a delightful crunch in every bite.
For a lighter option, baking these empanadas is a fantastic alternative. Preheating the oven and baking until golden brown allows the flavors to meld while keeping the dish healthier. This method ensures that you can enjoy your cheese empanadas with less guilt while still savoring the deliciousness.
Serving Suggestions and Enjoyment
Once cooked, allowing the empanadas to cool slightly before serving enhances the experience. Enjoying them warm makes each bite even more satisfying. Pairing these treats with a dipping sauce elevates the flavor, offering an additional kick that complements the cheese.
These cheese empanadas are not just a snack; they can serve as appetizers or even a light main dish. Their versatility makes them perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations. The warm, cheesy filling and flaky crust are sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who tries them.
The Ultimate Cheese Empanadas Recipe
These cheese empanadas feature a golden, flaky crust that perfectly envelops a rich, melty cheese filling. They are irresistibly delicious and have a satisfying crunch.
With a perfect balance of flavors, each empanada offers a slight buttery taste that complements the creamy cheese well, making them hard to resist.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1 cup cheese (like mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- Oil for frying (if frying)
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg and cold water until the dough comes together. Knead gently and form into a ball. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the cheese with garlic powder and onion powder if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut circles using a cookie cutter or a glass, about 4-5 inches in diameter.
- Fill the Empanadas: Place a tablespoon of cheese filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
- Cook the Empanadas: If frying, heat oil in a pan over medium heat and fry each empanada until golden brown on both sides. Alternatively, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden.
- Serve: Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your cheese empanadas warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 12 empanadas
- Calories: 180kcal per empanada
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 15g