Fried Empanadas

Few dishes capture the spirit of comfort food like a batch of freshly fried empanadas. Golden, crispy, and filled with savory goodness, they’re the kind of treat that brings instant joy to any table. Whether served as an appetizer, a snack, or a full meal, fried empanadas deliver that irresistible crunch followed by a warm, flavorful filling that keeps you reaching for more.

Empanadas have roots across Latin America, Spain, and the Philippines, each region adding its own twist. The classic fried version is especially popular in places like Argentina and Colombia, where they’re often filled with beef, onions, eggs, and spices, then deep-fried until perfectly crisp. The beauty of empanadas lies in their versatility: you can fill them with anything from spiced chicken – and cheese to vegetables or sweet fruit mixtures for dessert versions.

The magic starts with the dough, which is rolled thin and sturdy enough to hold the filling without breaking apart in the oil. When fried, the dough transforms into a golden shell that shatters delicately with every bite. The filling, meanwhile, stays juicy and rich, thanks to the sealed edges that lock in flavor and moisture.

For the perfect fried empanada, temperature control is key. The oil should be hot enough to crisp the exterior quickly but not so hot that it burns before the inside cooks. Once done, let them rest on paper towels to drain excess oil and cool slightly before serving.

Pair your fried empanadas with a dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Dipping sauces such as chimichurri, salsa verde, or spicy aioli complement the rich filling beautifully. Add a squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of sea salt just before serving, and you’ve got a snack that’s hard to resist.

Whether shared at a party or enjoyed fresh from the pan on a lazy weekend afternoon, fried empanadas never disappoint. They’re comforting, customizable, and deeply satisfying, proving that sometimes, the best meals are the ones you can hold in your hands.

Fried Empanadas

3.59 from 65 votes

Fried Empanadas are delicious, stuffed pastries that are crispy on the outside and packed with a savory filling on the inside. These tasty treats are perfect for a snack or a meal accompaniment, and they can be filled with a variety of ingredients such as meat, cheese, or vegetables.

Servings 1 people

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup butter cold and diced
• 1/2 cup water cold
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion diced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin ground
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

 

• In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together. Cut the butter into the flour mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Gradually add cold water to the flour mixture, mixing just until it forms a dough. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
• In a pan over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, and paprika and cook until the onions are soft.
• Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into circles. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each circle.
• Fold the circles in half over the filling and seal the edges with a fork.
• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the empanadas until golden brown on each side.
• Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 220mgFiber: 1gVitamin A: 4IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 10mg

Calories: 280kcal

Meal Type: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Keyword: food, recipes, snacks

Cooking Method: Fried

Diet: Meatlovers

Time: >45 Min

Level: Easy

Tried this recipe?Mention @coolinarco or tag #coolinarco!

Authentic Chicken Empanadas (Empanadas de Pollo)

These authentic Chicken Empanadas are filled with a delicious mixture of spiced chicken, onions, and peppers, encased in a flaky dough. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, these savory pastries are great for any occasion.

Check out this recipe

Beef Empanadas

These delicious Beef Empanadas are made with a savory beef filling encased in flaky pastry, perfect for a snack or meal.

Check out this recipe

Crispy Oven Baked Quesadillas

These crispy oven baked quesadillas are a delicious and easy option for dinner or a snack. Perfect for customizing with your favorite fillings.

Check out this recipe

Pork Tamales

Savory pork tamales are a traditional Mexican dish made with tender pork, flavorful masa, and wrapped in corn husks, perfect for celebrations or family gatherings.

Check out this recipe

Spicy Black Bean and Mango Burritos

Delicious and flavorful vegan burritos filled with spicy black beans and sweet mangoes.

Check out this recipe

Carne Asada

Carne Asada is a delicious, grilled beef dish that is marinated in a mixture of citrus, garlic, and spices. It’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or just on its own with some fresh salsa.

Check out this recipe

Easy Taco Skillet

This Easy Taco Skillet is a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. It’s loaded with flavorful ground beef, spices, and your favorite taco toppings.

Check out this recipe

Turkey Tacos

Delicious and healthy turkey tacos perfect for a quick dinner.

Check out this recipe

Bacon and Egg Breakfast Quesadilla

A delicious and satisfying breakfast quesadilla with crispy bacon and scrambled eggs.

Check out this recipe

Beef and Bean Chimichangas

A delicious Mexican-inspired meal featuring crispy fried tortillas filled with a savory beef and bean mixture.

Check out this recipe