Go Back
–+ servings
Golden mini empanadas with a light, flaky crust and crimped edges, served with a side of queso dip on a light, matte background.

Golden Mini Empanadas with Queso Dip

These mini empanadas feature a flaky, seasoned crust filled with a savory beef and cheese filling, served with a warm queso dip for dipping. Perfect for appetizers or parties.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Latin
Servings 12 mini empanadas
Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

  • Rolling Pin
  • Cookie cutter or glass
  • Baking Sheet
  • Fork
  • Pastry Brush

Ingredients
  

For the dough

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cold butter, cubed
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ cup cold water
  • 1 large egg, for egg wash

For the filling

  • ½ lb ground beef or chicken
  • ½ cup diced onions
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ¼ tsp cumin
  • ¼ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
  • salt and pepper to taste

For dipping sauce

  • ½ cup queso dip

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, and cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or fork to incorporate the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Gradually add cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
  • In a skillet, cook ground beef (or chicken) with diced onions and garlic until browned. Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir in shredded cheese and set aside to cool.
  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough to 1/8 inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut into circles using a cookie cutter or glass.
  • Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over, creating a half-moon shape, and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
  • Brush the tops of the empanadas with beaten egg wash. Bake on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
  • Serve warm with queso dip for dipping.

Notes

You can experiment with different fillings such as roasted vegetables, or try sweet fillings like caramelized apples for a dessert variation. To achieve a crispier texture, consider frying the empanadas instead of baking.

Nutrition

Calories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 220mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2.5mg
Keyword Appetizer, Empanadas, Party Food, Savory Snacks
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!