Are you a fan of empanadas? These delicious empanada fillings are a staple of Latin American cuisine and can be filled with various ingredients. From savory meats to sweet fruits, there are endless possibilities for empanada fillings.
If you’re looking to make empanadas at home, you may be wondering what the best fillings are. While personal taste will always play a role in your decision, some classic empanada fillings are sure to please. Beef, chicken, and cheese are popular options, but you can get creative with seafood, vegetables, and dessert fillings.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best empanada fillings to inspire your next cooking adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner in the kitchen, you’re sure to find a filling that suits your taste buds. So, let’s get started and discover the delicious world of empanadas!
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Popular Empanada Fillings
When it comes to empanadas, the filling brings flavor and texture to the dish. There are many different types of delicious empanada fillings to choose from, and you can get creative with your unique combinations. Below you will find some of the most popular ones:
Beef Empanada Fillings
Beef is a classic empanada filling that is savory, juicy, and flavorful. Ground beef is often used, but you can also use shredded beef or steak. Some popular beef empanada fillings include beef, onion, and garlic with a touch of tomato paste, paprika, and cumin. Other variations include beef and cheese, beef and olives, or beef and potatoes.
Chicken Empanada Fillings
Chicken is a popular empanada filling that is lean and healthy. You can use rotisserie chicken or cook your chicken breast. Some popular chicken empanada fillings include chicken, onion, garlic, and tomato with a touch of cumin, paprika, and cilantro. Other variations include chicken and cheese, chicken and black beans, or chicken and jalapeño.
Vegetarian Empanada Fillings
Vegetarian empanadas are a great option for those who don’t eat meat or want to switch things up. Some popular vegetarian empanada fillings include black bean and cheese, spinach and feta, mushroom and goat cheese, or potato and cheese. You can add other veggies like corn, peppers, or zucchini.
Pork Empanada Fillings
Pork is another classic empanada filling that is juicy and flavorful. Some popular pork empanada fillings include pork, onion, garlic, and tomato with a touch of cumin, paprika, and sugar. Other variations include pork and cheese, pork and pineapple, or pork and green olives.
Shrimp Empanada Fillings
Shrimp is a delicious and light filling that is perfect for seafood lovers. Some popular shrimp empanada fillings include shrimp, onion, garlic, and tomato with a touch of cumin, paprika, and cilantro. Other variations include shrimp and crab or shrimp and cheese.
Tuna Empanada Fillings
Tuna is a healthy and flavorful filling perfect for those who love seafood. Some popular tuna empanada fillings include tuna, onion, garlic, and tomato with cumin, paprika, and black pepper. Other variations include tuna and cheese or tuna and olives.
Cheesy Empanada Fillings
If you’re a fan of cheese, then you’re in luck because empanadas can be filled with various delicious cheesy fillings. From mozzarella to goat cheese, there are plenty of options.
Mozzarella Empanada Fillings
Mozzarella cheese is a classic cheese used in many dishes, and it works great as an empanada filling. The cheese is mild and melts well, making it ideal for empanadas. You can pair mozzarella with various other ingredients, such as tomatoes, basil, and garlic, for a classic Italian flavor. Mix it with spinach and artichokes for a delicious and healthy filling.
Cheddar Empanada Fillings
Cheddar cheese is another popular cheese that can be used as an empanada filling. It has a sharp, tangy flavor that pairs well with meats such as bacon or ham. You can also mix it with diced jalapenos for a spicy kick. Cheddar cheese is also a great option for vegetarian empanadas, as it pairs well with vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots.
Spinach Feta Empanadas
Spinach feta empanadas are a great vegetarian option. It is a great choice for when you want a lighter empanada that is still packed with flavor. The combination of feta cheese and spinach creates a unique flavor profile, and the creamy texture makes it incredibly delicious.
Pepper Jack Empanada Fillings
Pepper Jack cheese is a spicy cheese that can add flavor to your empanadas. It’s a combination of Monterey Jack cheese and hot peppers, making it perfect for those who love a little heat. Mix it with ground beef, chicken, or pork for a spicy meat filling. You can pair it with corn and black beans for a Tex-Mex flavor.
Goat Cheese Empanada Fillings
Goat cheese has a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that is perfect for empanadas. It pairs well with ingredients such as caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, and spinach. Mix it with diced apples and cinnamon for a sweet and savory filling. Goat cheese is a great option for lactose intolerant or looking for a lighter cheese option.
Spicy Empanada Fillings
If you’re a fan of spicy food, then you’ll love these empanada fillings that pack a punch of heat and flavor. Here are two delicious and easy-to-make spicy empanada fillings you can try at home.
Chorizo Empanada Fillings
Chorizo Empanada Filling is a real crowd-pleaser in this list of delightful fillings. It’s all about the spicy, savory chorizo, with its vibrant flavor that’s guaranteed to impress.
It’s often made with diced onion and minced garlic, sautéed to perfection for that delicious aromatic base. Then, there’s the seasoning salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika that ties it all together.
It’s a medley of bold, spicy flavors, and the option to add potatoes or bell peppers adds another layer of versatility to it.
This Chorizo Empanada Filling is a flavor-packed option for those who love a hearty, spicy bite in their empanadas. Try it and experience a delightful twist in your usual empanada recipe!
Jalapeño Empanada Fillings
Jalapeño Empanada Filling is a spicy delight for those who like their food with a kick. Jalapeño peppers are a popular ingredient in Mexican cuisine known for their spicy and slightly sweet flavor.
There’s the option to incorporate cheese or ground meat, adding a rich, hearty touch to the spicy jalapeño base.
The Jalapeño Empanada Filling is a fiery, flavor-filled choice that promises to bring a zingy spin to your traditional empanada recipe. Be sure to give it a go!
