Why Make This Recipe
Ground Turkey and Cheese Empanadas are a crowd-pleaser! They are easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner, a fun party, or a snack for yourself, these empanadas will surely impress. The combination of lean ground turkey and gooey cheese wrapped in a crispy shell is simply irresistible. Plus, they are a great way to use leftover turkey!
How to Make Irresistible Ground Turkey and Cheese Empanadas
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package of empanada dough discs
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Directions
- In a skillet, cook the diced onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
- Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, seasoning with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and well combined.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a clean surface, place an empanada dough disc and add a spoonful of the turkey and cheese mixture in the center.
- Fold the disc over to form a half-moon shape, pressing the edges to seal.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Irresistible Ground Turkey and Cheese Empanadas
These empanadas are best served warm. You can enjoy them on their own or pair them with a side of salsa, guacamole, or a fresh salad. They make a great appetizer or main dish. Feel free to set out different dipping sauces for a fun twist!
How to Store Irresistible Ground Turkey and Cheese Empanadas
To store any leftover empanadas, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for later. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Tips to Make Irresistible Ground Turkey and Cheese Empanadas
- Make sure not to overfill the empanada dough, or they may burst during baking.
- Use different types of cheese for various flavors, like Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
- If you prefer a little kick, add some chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper to the turkey mixture.
Variation
You can customize your empanadas by adding other ingredients like black beans, corn, or bell peppers to the filling. This is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal!
FAQs
-
Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken for the turkey. It will work just as well! -
Can I bake the empanadas instead of frying them?
Yes! Baking is a healthier option and the empanadas will turn out delicious and crispy. -
How do I know when the empanadas are done?
They should be a lovely golden brown color. You can also check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
Ground Turkey and Cheese Empanadas
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- to taste Salt and pepper
For Assembly
- 1 package empanada dough discs
- 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a skillet, cook the diced onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
- Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, seasoning with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and well combined.
Assembly and Baking
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a clean surface, place an empanada dough disc and add a spoonful of the turkey and cheese mixture in the center.
- Fold the disc over to form a half-moon shape, pressing the edges to seal.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.