Cuban Empanadas
Cuban empanadas feature flaky biscuit shells filled with seasoned ground beef or chicken, cheese, corn, and a touch of spice, perfect for savory snacking or parties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry beef or chicken in a very hot pan until cooked through.
- Mix picante sauce, corn, cheese, and sugar together in a bowl.
- Flatten each biscuit into a round shape.
- Beat the egg and brush around the edge of each biscuit.
- Add the cooked meat to the mixture in the bowl and mix well.
- Spoon the filling in the middle of each biscuit.
- Fold over and press the edges together with a fork to seal.
- Bake in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using ground turkey or a mix of ground beef and chicken for added flavor. If you don’t have picante sauce, salsa can work as a substitute. To save time, consider using pre-cooked meat or store-bought empanada dough. Make sure to seal the edges of the empanadas well to prevent leaking during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the empanadas with a side of fresh guacamole or sour cream for dipping. A light salad or some Spanish rice pairs beautifully with this dish. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside a refreshing beverage like iced tea or a fruity punch, perfect for balancing the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover empanadas can be stored 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 warmed through and crispy. They can also be frozen before baking for later enjoyment.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cuban Empanadas contains roughly 301 calories, with 8g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of calcium (18% of the Daily Value), protein (16% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (12% 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 these empanadas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the empanadas in advance and store them in the fridge before baking. Just make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. They can be baked right before serving for a fresh and hot treat.
What can I use instead of Cheddar cheese?
If you don’t have Cheddar cheese, feel free to use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of spice. Mozzarella is another excellent alternative if you prefer a milder flavor. Each cheese will give a different texture and taste to your empanadas.
Can I fry these empanadas instead of baking them?
Absolutely! Frying the empanadas will give them a crispy, golden exterior. Heat oil in a deep pan and fry each empanada for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. Just be cautious of the hot oil!
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).