Craving a savory snack that's perfect for any occasion? These irresistible Ham and Cheese Empanadas feature a buttery, flaky homemade pastry that's filled to the brim with a mouthwatering mixture of tender chopped ham, gooey mozzarella cheese, and sautéed onions. Whether you're serving them as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, these baked empanadas deliver a golden, perfectly crisp crust every time with a quick egg wash. Easy to customize and kid-friendly, this recipe combines the comforting flavors of ham and cheese with the satisfying crunch of hand-held pastry pockets. With just 30 minutes of prep and 25 minutes in the oven, you'll have 12 delectable empanadas that are ideal for parties, picnics, or weeknight treats. Perfectly portable and bursting with flavor, these Ham and Cheese Empanadas are sure to become your new go-to recipe!
In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Beat the egg in a separate bowl and add it to the flour and butter mixture. Pour in the cold water slowly and mix until the dough comes together. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently just until smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
While the dough chills, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onions, chopped ham, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well and set aside.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it's about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut circles approximately 4 inches in diameter.
Place a spoonful of the ham and cheese mixture in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly and crimp with a fork to seal.
In a small bowl, beat the egg with water to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the empanadas with the egg wash for a golden finish.
Arrange the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crisp.
Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade ham and cheese empanadas!
Calories |
2297 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 114.0 g | 146% | |
| Saturated Fat | 52.9 g | 264% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 736 mg | 245% | |
| Sodium | 6094 mg | 265% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 201.2 g | 73% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.2 g | 29% | |
| Total Sugars | 10.3 g | ||
| Protein | 112.9 g | 226% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.4 mcg | 12% | |
| Calcium | 938 mg | 72% | |
| Iron | 16.2 mg | 90% | |
| Potassium | 1274 mg | 27% | |
*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.