
Delicious bite-sized empanadas with three flavorful fillings and accompanying Argentinian-inspired dipping sauces. Perfect for parties or a quick snack.
**Prepare the Beef Filling:** Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add diced onion and green bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and stir in chopped hard-boiled eggs and green olives. Let cool slightly.
**Prepare the Chicken Filling:** In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
**Prepare the Spinach & Cheese Filling:** In a bowl, combine chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
**Assemble the Empanadas:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Place a small amount (about 1-2 teaspoons) of your chosen filling in the center of each empanada disc. Do not overfill.
Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Seal the edges by pressing firmly with your fingers or using a fork to crimp the edges. This is very important to ensure that they do not open during baking.
**Egg Wash:** In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush the tops of the empanadas with the egg wash.
**Bake:** Arrange the empanadas on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
**Prepare Chimichurri:** In a small bowl, combine parsley, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and salt and pepper to taste. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
**Prepare Salsa Criolla:** In a small bowl, combine red onion, red bell pepper, parsley, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper. Let sit for at least 15 minutes.
**Prepare Aioli:** In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Stir well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
**Serve:** Let the empanadas cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with chimichurri, salsa criolla, and aioli for dipping.
Nutrition per serving (165g)
For easier sealing, lightly moisten the edges of the empanada dough with water before folding.
Empanadas can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Add a few minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Get creative with fillings! Try adding chorizo, different cheeses, or other vegetables.
To prevent the empanadas from sticking, make sure your baking sheets are well-greased or lined with parchment paper.
The chimichurri sauce can be made a day in advance, which allows the flavors to develop even further.
Oven
Stove
Mixing Bowls
Baking Sheets
No wine pairing suggestions available for this recipe.