Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds straight to Latin America? These Sausage and Cheese Empanadas are not just a snack; they are a delightful explosion of flavors wrapped in a golden, flaky crust that will have everyone asking for seconds! Perfect for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this recipe is incredibly easy to follow and will make your kitchen smell heavenly. With just 45 minutes of your time, you can create 12 mouthwatering empanadas that are sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to dive into this deliciously cheesy and savory treat!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Latin American
Serves: 12 empanadas
Ingredients
- 1 lb sausage
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1 package empanada dough
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until the meat is fully browned and no pink remains, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Add diced onions to the skillet and sauté with the sausage for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and slightly softened.
- Remove the sausage and onion mixture from heat and let it cool for 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease using a paper towel.
- Mix the cooked sausage and onions with shredded cheese in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Roll out the empanada dough and cut into 4-inch circles using a round cutter or glass.
- Place a spoonful of the sausage and cheese mixture in the center of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal completely.
- Whisk the egg and brush the top of each empanada with egg wash to create a golden, shiny finish.
- Arrange the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Can be served with salsa or hot sauce if desired.
Tips
- Perfectly Browned Sausage: Ensure your sausage is well-cooked and browned for maximum flavor. Don’t rush this step; the caramelization adds depth to your filling.
- Customize Your Cheese: While shredded cheese is a must, don’t hesitate to experiment with different types! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack can elevate your empanadas.
- Seal the Deal: Make sure to crimp the edges of your empanadas tightly to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking. A fork works wonders for this!
- Egg Wash Magic: For a beautiful golden finish, don’t skip the egg wash. It adds a lovely sheen that makes your empanadas look as good as they taste.
- Serve with Style: Pair your empanadas with a side of salsa, guacamole, or hot sauce for an extra kick. These dips complement the savory filling perfectly!
- Make Ahead: If you want to save time, prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble the empanadas when you’re ready to bake. They can also be frozen before baking for a quick snack later!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
