When the weekend rolls around and the game-day excitement fills the air, there’s nothing quite like the delicious aroma of homemade food wafting through the house. I found myself craving something savory yet easy to whip up, and that’s when the idea of homemade Ground Turkey Empanadas struck me. With a tender, buttery dough enveloping a hearty filling of seasoned ground turkey and melty cheddar cheese, these treats are both comforting and crowd-pleasing.
The warm spices of cumin and chili powder dance through the flavors, making every bite a celebration of taste. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a lively gathering with friends, these empanadas are not just meals; they’re little pockets of joy! So, gather your ingredients and join me in crafting these delectable delights that will surely have everyone asking for seconds!
Why love homemade Ground Turkey Empanadas?
Homemade Ground Turkey Empanadas are your new go-to comfort food! Simplicity: With straightforward steps, you can easily create these delicious bites at home. Flavor Explosion: The warm spices meld perfectly with savory turkey and melted cheese for a taste that’s sure to impress. Versatile: Customize fillings and cheese for endless variations to satisfy any craving! Perfect for Sharing: These empanadas are delightful crowd-pleasers, making them ideal for game day gatherings or family dinners. Get ready for compliments with this easy, mouthwatering recipe!
Homemade Ground Turkey Empanadas Ingredients
Get ready to create delicious Homemade Ground Turkey Empanadas with this essential ingredient list!
For the Dough
- Flour (3 1/4 cups) – Provides structure and creates a flaky pastry; King Arthur all-purpose flour is highly recommended for the best results.
- Salt (1/2 tsp) – Enhances the flavor of the dough, ensuring each bite is savory.
- Butter (7/8 cup, cold) – Adds richness and flakiness; keep it cold and cubed for perfect dough consistency.
- Milk (1/2 cup) – Adds moisture to achieve the ideal dough consistency.
- Egg (1) – Binds the dough together and serves as an egg wash for that beautiful golden finish.
For the Filling
- Ground Turkey (1 lb) – A lean protein that can be substituted with ground chicken; choose 85/15 or 93/7 for moisture and flavor.
- Canola Oil (1 tsp) – Used for cooking the turkey, it helps prevent the filling from drying out.
- Yellow Onion (2 tbsp, finely minced) – Brings sweetness and depth to your savory filling.
- Taco Seasoning (2 tbsp) – Infuses your filling with flavor; feel free to use a homemade spice blend for a personal touch.
- Water (1 cup) – Provides moisture for simmering and keeps the filling juicy.
- Cheddar Cheese (1 1/4 cups, freshly shredded) – Melts perfectly; avoid pre-shredded for best flavor and texture.
For Serving
- Cilantro, Salsa, Sour Cream – Essential for garnish and serving; they add freshness and creaminess to your homemade empanadas.
Gather all these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying these delightful homemade Ground Turkey Empanadas!
How to Make Homemade Ground Turkey Empanadas
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Prepare the Dough: In a food processor, combine flour and salt, then add cold cubed butter. Pulse until the mixture is crumbly, resembling small peas. Mix in milk and the egg until a coherent dough forms. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
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Make the Filling: Heat canola oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the ground turkey and minced onion until there’s no pink left in the meat, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in taco seasoning and water; let it simmer until the liquid evaporates, cooling the mixture before using it.
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Roll and Cut Dough: Once chilled, roll out the dough on a floured surface to achieve a thickness of 1/8 inch. Use a 5 1/2-inch round cutter to cut circles from the dough, gathering scraps and re-rolling as necessary.
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Assemble Empanadas: Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the turkey filling and a sprinkle of cheese on one half of each circle. Moisten the edges with water, fold the dough over to form a half-moon, and press to seal securely.
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Chill and Prepare for Baking: Arrange the empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F, cut a few steam holes in the tops, and brush with an egg wash for a golden crust.
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Bake: Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy, filling your kitchen with wonderful aromas!
Optional: Serve with a side of sour cream or fresh salsa for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Homemade Ground Turkey Empanadas
- Fridge: Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick snack or meal.
- Freezer: Unbaked homemade Ground Turkey Empanadas can be frozen for up to 3 months. For baked empanadas, cool before freezing to retain their texture and flavor.
- Reheating: To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or air fry at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for a warm, crispy finish.
- Wrap Properly: For best results when freezing, wrap empanadas individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag to avoid freezer burn.
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade Ground Turkey Empanadas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the dough and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. For the filling, cook the ground turkey mixture and store it in an airtight container in the fridge; ensure it cools completely to maintain its flavor and texture. When you’re ready to serve, roll out the chilled dough, assemble the empanadas, and bake as instructed. This way, you reap the benefits of a quick, hassle-free dinner that is just as delicious as when made fresh!
What to Serve with Homemade Ground Turkey Empanadas?
Elevate your meal experience by complementing these flavorful empanadas with vibrant sides and refreshing drinks.
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Mexican Rice: A classic side that adds a hearty component while its spiced flavors enhance the satisfying filling of the empanadas.
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Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro brings a zesty crunch, cutting through the richness and balancing your plate beautifully.
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Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole pairs wonderfully with the crispy empanadas, offering a delightful contrast to their flaky texture.
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Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a cool, tangy touch that elevates every bite, making it the ideal accompaniment for these savory pockets.
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Cilantro Lime Slaw: This refreshing mix of cabbage, cilantro, and lime juice adds a crisp, zesty element that complements the warm spices of the turkey filling.
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Chilled Beer or Sangria: Enjoy a cold beverage such as a light beer or fruity sangria to balance the savory flavors and keep the atmosphere festive.
With these delightful pairings, your homemade Ground Turkey Empanadas will shine as the star of your dinner table!
Expert Tips for Homemade Ground Turkey Empanadas
- Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is not too sticky; adjust with flour as needed while mixing to achieve a smooth texture.
- Filling Flavor: Experiment with spice levels in your taco seasoning for a customized kick; just remember not to overdo it!
- Sealing Technique: Press the edges firmly to seal your empanadas. Too much moisture can cause them to burst during baking.
- Chill for Success: Don’t skip chilling; it helps the dough maintain its shape while baking, preventing shrinkage.
- Serving Fresh: Empanadas are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored or frozen for later enjoyment.
Homemade Ground Turkey Empanadas Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor these empanadas to your taste buds with these scrumptious twists!
- Ground Chicken: Substitute ground turkey with ground chicken for a lighter alternative that’s just as flavorful.
- Cheese Swap: Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy kick that melts beautifully.
- Veggie Packed: Add finely diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the filling for a nutritious veggie boost.
- Herby Delight: Mix in fresh herbs such as parsley or oregano with your filling for a refreshing twist.
- Spicy Touch: Incorporate jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into your filling if you enjoy a bit of heat.
- Sweet Addition: For a unique contrast, add some sweet corn or even raisins to the filling for a sweet-savory blend that’s unforgettable.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the dough and enjoy a gluten-free version that doesn’t skimp on taste.
- Vegan Option: Swap out the ground turkey for a plant-based ground meat alternative and use coconut oil instead of butter for a vegan-friendly delight.
These variations ensure everyone can find their favorite way to embrace the joy of homemade empanadas!
Homemade Ground Turkey Empanadas Recipe FAQs
What type of flour is best for the dough?
When making the dough for your Homemade Ground Turkey Empanadas, I highly recommend using King Arthur all-purpose flour. It provides the perfect balance of structure and flakiness, which is essential for a tender pastry.”
How should I store leftover empanadas?
To keep your leftover empanadas fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This ensures they remain tasty and ready for a quick snack or meal.
Can I freeze empanadas, and if so, how?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked Homemade Ground Turkey Empanadas for up to 3 months. To do this, place each assembled empanada on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them until firm. Once frozen, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag.
What should I do if my empanadas burst while baking?
If your empanadas burst while baking, it often means you may have overfilled them or not sealed them properly. Ensure to limit the filling to about 2-3 tablespoons per empanada and moisten the edges before pressing them together firmly. Also, don’t skip the chilling step; it helps keep them stable during baking.
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Yes, if you’re cooking for someone with food allergies, always check the taco seasoning for gluten or other allergens. Furthermore, if you have pets, ensure they don’t consume any leftovers, especially if they include spices, as many can be harmful to animals.
How long does it take for the dough to chill properly?
I recommend chilling the dough for at least 1 hour. This resting period allows it to firm up, which helps maintain its shape when rolling and cutting. Don’t rush this step for the best results!
Homemade Ground Turkey Empanadas for Cozy Nights In
Equipment
- Food processor
- - Skillet
- Rolling Pin
- 5 1/2-inch round cutter
- Baking sheet
Ingredients
Dough
- 3.25 cups Flour King Arthur all-purpose flour is recommended.
- 0.5 tsp Salt Enhances flavor.
- 0.875 cups Butter Cold and cubed for perfect consistency.
- 0.5 cups Milk Adds moisture.
- 1 large Egg For binding and egg wash.
Filling
- 1 lb Ground Turkey Substitute with ground chicken if desired.
- 1 tsp Canola Oil Used for cooking.
- 2 tbsp Yellow Onion Finely minced.
- 2 tbsp Taco Seasoning Homemade or store-bought.
- 1 cup Water For simmering.
- 1.25 cups Cheddar Cheese Freshly shredded.
Serving
- Cilantro For garnish.
- Salsa For serving.
- Sour Cream For serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Prepare the Dough: Combine flour and salt in a food processor, add cold cubed butter and pulse to a crumbly mixture. Mix in milk and egg until coherent. Wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Make the Filling: Heat canola oil in a skillet, cook ground turkey and minced onion until meat is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in taco seasoning and water, simmer until liquid evaporates, then cool.
- Roll and Cut Dough: Roll dough to 1/8 inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut 5 1/2-inch circles from the dough.
- Assemble Empanadas: Place 2-3 tablespoons of filling and a sprinkle of cheese on one half of each circle, moisten edges with water, fold and press to seal.
- Chill and Prepare for Baking: Arrange empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet, refrigerate for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F, cut steam holes, brush with egg wash.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.