Baked Empanadas (Panama Style)
Baked empanadas with savory beef, potatoes, olives, and spices offer a delicious Panamanian flavor profile, perfect for flavorful snacks or main courses.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a pan for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring.
- Add diced potatoes, tomato paste, olives, water, Worcestershire sauce, cilantro, and hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Cook for about 25 to 30 minutes until potatoes are tender, ladling off any excess oil.
- Allow the filling to cool before using it to fill empanada dough and baking.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or a teaspoon of cumin to the beef mixture. If you prefer a lighter filling, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. For a vegetarian option, use lentils or black beans instead. Make sure to drain excess liquid from the filling before using it in the dough to prevent sogginess.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these empanadas warm with a side of fresh salsa or guacamole. They pair beautifully with Green Beans(Portuguese Style) for a complete meal. You can also offer a mixed green salad or rice as a side dish to balance the richness of the empanadas. A light dipping sauce can add an extra zing.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. For longer storage, freeze them before baking; thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Empanadas (Panama Style) contains roughly 1569 calories, with 32g protein, 196g carbohydrates, and 74g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (100% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (95% of the Daily Value), and protein (64% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2785mg per serving (121% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the empanada filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance. Just allow it to cool completely and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to assemble the empanadas, simply take it out and fill the dough. This can save time on busy days!
What type of dough should I use for empanadas?
You can use store-bought empanada dough for convenience or make your own using flour, butter, and water for a fresher taste. Both options work well, but homemade dough can give your empanadas a flakier texture.
Can I bake the empanadas instead of frying them?
Absolutely! Baked empanadas are a healthier alternative to frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), brush the assembled empanadas with egg wash for a golden finish, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).