Quick and Easy Empanadas

These Quick and Easy Empanadas are the ultimate solution for a flavorful snack or on-the-go meal that’s ready in a flash! Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines the convenience of store-bought refrigerated pie dough with a hearty, spiced filling of ground beef (or turkey), sautéed onions, garlic, and a touch of tomato paste for a rich depth of flavor. With just 15 minutes of prep time, these golden-brown delights are baked to perfection in under 20 minutes, making them a fast and satisfying treat. Customize your empanadas with a sprinkle of melted cheddar for a cheesy twist, or keep it classic—either way, they’re easy to make and impossible to resist. Serve them warm for a comforting appetizer, party platter, or quick lunch that’s sure to impress!

Nutriscore Rating: 58/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 2 sheets store-bought refrigerated pie dough
• 0.5 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons water
• 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3

Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet, breaking it into small pieces. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.

Step 4

Stir in the paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Add the tomato paste and water, mixing until well combined and slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes.

Step 5

Unroll the refrigerated pie dough onto a lightly floured surface. Use a 4-inch round cutter (or the rim of a glass) to cut circles out of the dough.

Step 6

Place a small spoonful of the meat mixture onto one half of each dough circle, leaving space around the edges. Add a small pinch of shredded cheddar cheese if desired.

Step 7

Fold the dough circles in half over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly, then crimp them with a fork to seal.

Step 8

Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.

Step 9

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 10

Allow the empanadas to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	543.3 grams (543.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1238

Total Fat 93.40g	120%
Saturated Fat 37.90g	190%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.30g
Cholesterol 426mg	142%
Sodium 2035mg	88%
Total Carbohydrate 40.30g	15%
Dietary Fiber 4.40g	16%
Total Sugars 8.50g
Protein 64.40g	129%

Vitamin D 52IU	260%
Calcium 541mg	42%
Iron 11mg	61%
Potassium 1304mg	28%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 66.7%

Protein: 20.5%

Carbs: 12.8%