There’s something irresistible about biting into a freshly made empanada. The outside is golden and crisp, the inside is warm and savory, and that first pull of melted cheese makes every bite even better.
These Homemade Ham and Cheese Empanadas bring together diced ham, stretchy mozzarella, and an optional touch of Manchego cheese, all wrapped in a simple homemade pastry. You can fry them for a beautifully crisp finish or bake them in the oven for a lighter alternative.
They’re easy enough for a casual family meal but special enough to serve at parties, game-day gatherings, or holiday get-togethers. Best of all, the dough uses everyday ingredients, so there’s no need for complicated equipment or store-bought pastry.
Whether you enjoy them straight from the fryer or freshly baked from the oven, these little golden turnovers are guaranteed to disappear quickly!
What Makes These Ham and Cheese Empanadas So Good?
The magic is in the combination of a tender homemade dough and a rich, cheesy filling.
- A homemade pastry: Flour, butter, egg, and baking powder create a soft dough that becomes wonderfully crisp when cooked.
- Savory ham: Cooked ham adds a delicious salty flavor that pairs naturally with cheese.
- Melty mozzarella: Creates that irresistible cheesy center.
- Optional Manchego: Adds a deeper, slightly nutty flavor to the filling.
- Two cooking options: Fry them for a traditional crispy texture or bake them until golden in the oven.
Ingredients for Homemade Ham and Cheese Empanadas
Yield: 12 empanadas
For the Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (about 13.2 oz or 375 g)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- ¾ cup warm water (approximately 6 fl oz)
- 1 large egg
For the Filling
- 9 oz cooked ham, finely diced
- 9 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded Manchego cheese (optional)
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