Simple Ham Empanadas

Crispy, golden, and bursting with savory flavor, these Simple Ham Empanadas are the perfect handheld treat for any occasion. Made with a buttery, homemade pastry dough that's easy to work with, these empanadas are filled with a luscious combination of finely chopped ham and gooey cheddar cheese. Ready in under an hour, they’re ideal for quick snacks, party appetizers, or even lunchbox delights. The flaky crust, crimped to perfection, adds a delightful crunch, while a glossy egg wash ensures that irresistible golden finish. Serve warm or at room temperature, and watch these irresistible pastries disappear in no time! Perfect for fans of easy empanadas recipes, family-friendly snacks, or ham and cheese classics.

Nutriscore Rating: 50/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 300 g All-purpose flour
• 150 g Unsalted butter
• 1 tsp Salt
• 6 tbsp Cold water
• 250 g Ham
• 150 g Cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1 large Egg
• 1 tbsp Milk

Directions

Step 1

In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour and salt together.

Step 2

Cut the unsalted butter into small cubes and add it to the flour mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 3

Gradually add the cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.

Step 4

While the dough chills, finely chop the ham and combine it with the shredded cheddar cheese in a medium bowl. Set aside.

Step 5

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 6

Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.

Step 7

Use a 4-inch round cutter (or a glass) to cut circles from the dough. Gather and re-roll the scraps as needed.

Step 8

Place 1-2 tablespoons of the ham and cheese mixture in the center of each dough circle. Fold the circle in half to form a crescent shape, then pinch the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative finish.

Step 9

In a small bowl, beat the egg with the milk. Brush the egg wash over the top of each empanada.

Step 10

Transfer the empanadas to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.

Step 11

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.

Step 12

Let the empanadas cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(959.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3101.8

Total Fat 194.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 110.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.0g
Cholesterol 519.2mg	0%
Sodium 4512.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 268.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 12.7g	0%
Total Sugars 4.3g
Protein 83.7g	0%

Vitamin D 48.6IU	0%
Calcium 1201.6mg	0%
Iron 16.4mg	0%
Potassium 1302.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 55.4%

Protein: 10.6%

Carbs: 34.0%