Breakfast empanadas offer a delicious twist on the traditional morning meal. These handheld pastries combine savory fillings with flaky dough for a portable and satisfying start to the day. Making homemade breakfast empanadas is simpler than many people realize, requiring just a few basic ingredients and straightforward techniques.

Empanadas can be customized with various breakfast-inspired fillings like eggs, cheese, bacon, or chorizo. The dough can be made from scratch or purchased pre-made for convenience. Once assembled, the empanadas are typically baked until golden brown, though some recipes call for frying.

Preparing breakfast empanadas at home allows for complete control over ingredients and portions. This versatile recipe can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs, making it an excellent option for feeding a family or meal prepping for busy mornings. With a little practice, anyone can master the art of crafting these flavorful breakfast pockets.

Understanding Empanadas

Empanadas are versatile pastries with a rich history and diverse varieties. These savory or sweet turnovers have evolved into beloved dishes across many cultures.

History and Origin

Empanadas trace their roots to medieval Spain and Portugal. The word “empanada” comes from the Spanish verb “empanar,” meaning to wrap in bread. Galicia, a region in northwest Spain, is often credited as the birthplace of empanadas.

Spanish colonizers introduced empanadas to Latin America in the 16th century. Each region adapted the recipe using local ingredients and flavors. Argentina, Chile, and Peru developed their own distinct styles.

In some areas, empanadas became popular as portable meals for laborers. Their compact shape made them easy to carry and eat without utensils.

Varieties of Empanadas

Empanadas come in countless variations. Savory fillings include beef, chicken, pork, cheese, and vegetables. Beef empanadas are particularly popular in Argentina, often containing ground meat, onions, and spices.

Breakfast empanadas typically feature eggs, cheese, and meats like bacon or chorizo. Some include potatoes or vegetables for added texture and flavor.

Vegetarian empanadas might be stuffed with cheese, spinach, corn, or beans. These provide tasty meatless options for many diets.

Dessert empanadas offer sweet treats. Common fillings include fruit preserves, dulce de leche, or chocolate. These are often dusted with powdered sugar or cinnamon.

Dough types vary as well. Some use wheat flour, while others incorporate cornmeal or cassava flour. The cooking method can be baked or fried, depending on regional preferences.

Ingredients Overview

Crafting delicious breakfast empanadas requires a careful selection of ingredients. The right combination of cheeses, proteins, vegetables, and dough creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Choosing the Right Cheese

Cheese plays a crucial role in breakfast empanadas, adding richness and creaminess. Shredded mozzarella offers excellent melting properties and a mild flavor. Sharp cheddar provides a tangy kick and vibrant color. Cream cheese can create a smooth, creamy filling.

For a spicier option, pepper jack cheese adds a zesty punch. Monterey jack melts well and has a subtle flavor that complements other ingredients. Experiment with different cheese combinations to find your perfect blend.

Consider using a mix of two or three cheeses for complex flavors. Aim for a total of 1 to 1.5 cups of shredded cheese per batch of empanadas.

Selecting Your Proteins

Proteins form the heart of breakfast empanadas. Eggs are a staple, providing a fluffy texture and binding other ingredients. Scramble them lightly before adding to the filling.

Bacon adds a smoky, salty flavor. Cook it until crisp and crumble it into small pieces. Chorizo offers a spicy, bold taste that pairs well with eggs and potatoes.

For a leaner option, consider diced ham or turkey sausage. Use about 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled protein per batch of empanadas.

Season your proteins with salt and black pepper to enhance their flavors. Be mindful of salt content when using cured meats like bacon or chorizo.

Vegetables and Additional Fillings

Vegetables add nutrition, texture, and flavor to breakfast empanadas. Diced onions provide a savory base. Sauté them in olive oil until translucent before adding to the filling.

Bell peppers, particularly red or green, offer a sweet crunch. Chop them finely and cook briefly to soften. Spinach adds vibrant color and nutritional value. Wilt it slightly before incorporating.

Diced tomatoes contribute juiciness and acidity. Remove seeds to prevent excess moisture. Avocado can be a creamy addition, but use it sparingly to avoid overpowering other flavors.

Potatoes are a popular filling. Use frozen shredded hash browns or dice and cook fresh potatoes until tender. They add heartiness and help absorb flavors from other ingredients.

Dough Options

The empanada dough is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. Store-bought empanada discs offer convenience and consistent results. Look for them in the freezer section of Latin American grocery stores.

For homemade dough, use all-purpose flour as the base. Mix it with salt, cold butter, and ice water to create a flaky texture. Add a pinch of sugar for slight sweetness if desired.

Roll the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 4-5 inch circles for standard-sized empanadas. For a golden finish, brush the tops with an egg wash before baking.

Consider adding spices like paprika or cumin to the dough for extra flavor. Let the dough rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before using to improve texture.

Preparing the Dough

The dough is the foundation of delicious breakfast empanadas. Mastering its preparation ensures flaky, tender pastry that complements the savory fillings.

Homemade vs Store-Bought

Homemade empanada dough offers superior taste and texture compared to store-bought alternatives. It allows for customization of flavors and ingredients. Homemade dough typically consists of flour, salt, butter, and water.

Store-bought dough saves time but may lack the same flakiness. Puff pastry is a convenient substitute, though it results in a different texture.

For the best results, opt for homemade dough. It’s surprisingly simple to make and elevates the final product significantly.

Working with the Dough

Chilling the dough is crucial for easy handling and achieving flaky layers. After mixing, wrap it in plastic and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Use a lightly floured surface and rolling pin to roll out the dough. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch.

Cut circles using a large cookie cutter or bowl. Re-roll scraps to maximize yield.

Handle the dough gently to maintain its delicate structure. Overworking leads to tough empanadas.

For extra flakiness, incorporate cold, unsalted butter into the flour using a pastry cutter. This creates small pockets of fat that expand during baking.

Making the Filling

The filling is the heart of a breakfast empanada. A well-crafted filling balances flavors and textures to create a satisfying morning meal.

Creating a Balanced Flavor

Start with scrambled eggs as the base. Cook them until just set, keeping them slightly moist. Sautéed onions and peppers add sweetness and crunch.

For protein, consider adding cooked chorizo or bacon. Cheese enhances creaminess – try sharp cheddar or creamy queso fresco.

Incorporate herbs like cilantro or chives for freshness. A dollop of cream cheese can add richness.

Season with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste. For heat, mix in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.

Cooking and Seasoning

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onions and peppers until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add any raw meats and cook thoroughly. Push the mixture to one side of the pan.

Whisk eggs with salt and pepper. Pour into the empty side of the skillet and scramble until just set.

Combine all ingredients in the pan. Stir in shredded cheese and cream cheese if using.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Let the mixture cool slightly before filling empanadas.

For extra flavor, serve with salsa or pico de gallo on the side.

Assembling the Empanadas

Assembling empanadas requires precision and care to create perfectly sealed pastries. The process involves folding the dough and securing the edges to prevent filling leakage during cooking.

Folding and Sealing Techniques

Start by placing a spoonful of filling in the center of each empanada disc. Avoid overfilling, as this can make sealing difficult. Fold the disc in half to create a half-moon shape.

Press the edges together firmly with your fingers. Use a fork to crimp the edges, creating a decorative pattern while ensuring a tight seal. Alternatively, fold the edge over itself in small sections, pinching as you go.

For a neater appearance, trim any excess dough with a sharp knife. Place the sealed empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each one.

Utilizing Egg Wash

Prepare an egg wash by beating an egg with a tablespoon of water. This mixture helps achieve a golden-brown crust and acts as a “glue” for sealing.

Brush the edges of the empanada disc with egg wash before folding. This extra step enhances the seal. After assembling, lightly brush the entire surface of each empanada with egg wash.

Be careful not to let excess egg wash pool around the edges, as this can prevent proper rising. For added flair, sprinkle sea salt or sesame seeds on top of the egg wash before baking.

Cooking Methods

Breakfast empanadas can be prepared using various cooking techniques to achieve different textures and flavors. The choice of method depends on personal preference and available equipment.

Baking the Empanadas

Baking is a popular and health-conscious way to cook empanadas. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the assembled empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Brush the empanadas with beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and crispy.

For frozen empanadas, increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

Alternative Cooking Options

Air frying offers a quick and crispy result. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange empanadas in a single layer, leaving space between them.

Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Air fried empanadas develop a crispy exterior while maintaining a tender filling.

Deep frying provides a traditional, indulgent option. Heat oil to 375°F (190°C) in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot. Fry empanadas in small batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.

Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. This method yields a flaky, crispy texture but adds more calories.

Serving Suggestions

Breakfast empanadas pair wonderfully with various sauces and toppings to enhance their flavor. These accompaniments add freshness, creaminess, and zest to complement the savory filling.

Pairing with Sauces and Toppings

Salsa and pico de gallo are classic choices that bring a vibrant, tangy kick to breakfast empanadas. Spoon these over the top or serve on the side for dipping. A dollop of sour cream offers a cool, creamy contrast to the warm pastry.

For added richness, slice fresh avocado or prepare guacamole as a topping. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the empanadas for a burst of herbal flavor.

To elevate presentation, consider a light dusting of paprika or a drizzle of hot sauce for those who enjoy extra heat. A wedge of lime on the side allows guests to add a citrusy zing to their liking.

For a complete breakfast spread, serve empanadas alongside scrambled eggs or a small fruit salad to balance the meal.

Pro Tips and Tricks

Mastering homemade breakfast empanadas requires attention to detail and a few insider techniques. These tips will help you achieve a flaky pastry and creamy texture for the perfect grab-and-go breakfast.

Achieving the Perfect Crust

Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling. This allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a flakier crust. Use cold butter and ice water when making the dough to create steam pockets during baking.

Roll the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness for the ideal balance of crispness and substance. Brush the edges with egg wash before sealing to ensure a tight seal and prevent filling leakage.

For extra flakiness, fold the dough over itself a few times during the rolling process. This creates layers similar to puff pastry.

Freezing and Reheating

Make a large batch of empanadas and freeze them for easy breakfast empanadas anytime. Freeze unbaked empanadas on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid.

Bake frozen empanadas directly from the freezer, adding 5-7 minutes to the usual baking time. For best results, brush with egg wash before baking to achieve a golden crust.

To reheat already baked empanadas, use an oven or toaster oven set to 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. This method maintains the crispy texture better than microwaving.

Nutrition and Storage

Breakfast empanadas can be a nutritious and convenient meal when prepared thoughtfully. Proper storage ensures they remain fresh and safe to eat for several days.

Understanding Nutrition Facts

Homemade breakfast empanadas typically contain 250-350 calories each, depending on ingredients and size. They provide a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. A standard empanada offers 15-20 grams of protein, 25-30 grams of carbohydrates, and 12-15 grams of fat.

Egg and cheese fillings contribute essential nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin D, and calcium. Adding vegetables increases fiber and micronutrient content. Whole wheat dough boosts fiber and B vitamins.

Sodium content varies but averages 400-600 mg per empanada. Reducing salt in the dough and fillings can lower this. Baking instead of frying decreases overall fat and calorie content.

Best Practices for Storage

Freshly made empanadas keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when stored properly. Place cooled empanadas in an airtight container or wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.

For longer storage, freeze empanadas for up to 3 months. Wrap each empanada individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Remove excess air before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

To reheat, thaw frozen empanadas overnight in the refrigerator. Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Microwaving is quicker but may result in a softer crust.

Refrigerated empanadas can be eaten cold or reheated. Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming stored empanadas.

Occasions and Pairings

Breakfast empanadas are versatile treats suitable for various events and gatherings. They pair well with classic breakfast beverages and can be adapted for different occasions.

Breakfast and Brunch Events

Breakfast empanadas shine at morning gatherings. Serve them at weekend brunches with friends or family reunions. They’re ideal for baby showers or holiday breakfasts.

Pair empanadas with fresh orange juice for a classic combination. Coffee or tea complement their savory flavors nicely.

For a twist, offer a breakfast burrito bar alongside empanadas. This allows guests to customize their meal and enjoy variety.

Serving at Parties

Empanadas make excellent finger foods for casual parties. They’re perfect for Super Bowl parties or game day gatherings.

Serve mini empanadas as appetizers at cocktail parties. Their handheld nature makes them easy to eat while mingling.

For larger events, set up a buffet with different empanada fillings. Include vegetarian options to cater to diverse dietary needs.

Pair empanadas with dipping sauces like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. This adds flavor and encourages guests to try different combinations.