Breakfast Empanada Recipe - Global Gourmet Adventures

Imagine waking up to the delicious aroma of freshly baked empanadas, filled with a scrumptious combination of fluffy eggs, crispy bacon, and melted cheese. This is no dream – it’s a reality with our mouth-watering breakfast empanada recipe. Whether you’re looking to impress your family with a special weekend brunch or simply want to treat yourself to a tasty morning meal, these empanadas are the perfect way to start your day. With a golden, flaky crust that encases all the savory ingredients, each bite is bursting with flavor. Get ready to elevate your breakfast game and experience the joy of homemade empanadas.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

To make breakfast empanadas, you will need the following ingredients:

1 package of refrigerated pie crusts: This convenient and time-saving option provides the perfect base for your empanadas.
6 large eggs: The eggs are the main component of the filling, providing protein and a creamy texture.
1/2 cup diced cooked ham: Adding diced ham gives the empanadas a savory and salty flavor.
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The melted cheddar cheese adds richness and a gooey texture to the filling.
1/4 cup diced bell peppers: Bell peppers add a touch of sweetness and crunch to the empanadas.
1/4 cup diced onions: Onions provide a savory depth of flavor to the filling.
1/4 cup diced tomatoes: Tomatoes add a tangy and juicy element to the empanadas.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a bright and herbaceous note to the filling.
Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning the eggs and filling with salt and pepper enhances the overall flavor of the empanadas.

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the empanadas will cook evenly and have a golden crust.
Unroll the pie crusts and cut out circles using a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass. This step prepares the pastry shells for the filling.
In a bowl, whisk the eggs and season with salt and pepper. This creates a uniform mixture that will be used as the base for the filling.
Over medium heat, cook the diced ham in a skillet until heated through. Remove from the skillet and set aside. This step ensures that the ham is fully cooked and warm before it goes into the empanadas.
In the same skillet, sauté the diced bell peppers and onions until they soften, about 5 minutes. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes. This step adds flavor and texture to the filling.
Add the whisked eggs to the skillet and scramble until cooked through. This step combines all the ingredients together and cooks the eggs until they are fully set.
Stir in the cooked ham and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined. This creates a cohesive filling that is ready to be added to the empanadas.
Place a spoonful of the egg mixture onto one half of each pie crust circle. This distributes the filling evenly among the empanadas.
Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges. This step creates a tight seal and ensures that the filling stays inside the empanadas while they bake.
Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes for an easy cleanup.
Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. The baking time may vary, so keep an eye on the empanadas to prevent them from burning.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. This allows the empanadas to set and makes them easier to handle.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the empanadas.

Variations

Breakfast empanadas can be easily customized to suit different preferences and dietary restrictions. Here are a few variations to consider:

Vegetarian:

For a vegetarian option, simply omit the ham and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach. This adds a hearty and nutritious twist to the empanadas.

Mexican:

If you’re a fan of spicy food, you can give your empanadas a Mexican flair by adding some chopped jalapenos and a sprinkle of chili powder. This adds a fiery kick and a burst of flavor.

Cheese lovers:

If you’re a cheese lover, you can experiment with different types of cheese in your empanadas. Use a combination of different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and feta for a melty and cheesy filling.

Sweet option:

For those with a sweet tooth, you can try a sweet breakfast empanada variation. Instead of savory fillings, fill the empanadas with fruit preserves or Nutella for a delightful and indulgent breakfast treat.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers or want to make empanadas ahead of time, here are some storage and reheating tips:

These breakfast empanadas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
To reheat, place the empanadas in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. This will help revive the crust and warm the filling.
Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave on a microwave-safe plate for about 1 minute, or until warm. This is a quick and convenient option if you’re short on time.

Serving Suggestions

Breakfast empanadas are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your breakfast experience:

These breakfast empanadas can be enjoyed on their own for a quick morning meal. They are portable and make for a filling and satisfying breakfast option.
Serve them with salsa or hot sauce for an extra kick of flavor. The tanginess and spiciness of the condiments complement the savory empanadas perfectly.
Pair them with a side of fresh fruit salad or a green salad for a more balanced and nutritious breakfast. This adds a refreshing element to your plate and provides a dose of vitamins and minerals.
Enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting and energizing start to your day. The combination of the warm empanadas and a soothing beverage is sure to kickstart your morning.

Tips

To make the best breakfast empanadas, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Make sure to dice the vegetables and ham into small, uniform pieces for even distribution in the filling. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
If you prefer a crispier crust, brush the empanadas with beaten egg before baking. This will give them a shiny and golden exterior.
To save time in the morning, you can prepare the filling the night before and assemble the empanadas in the morning. This allows for a quick and easy breakfast preparation.
Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite breakfast ingredients like bacon, sausage, or different types of cheeses. This allows you to create empanadas that suit your taste preferences.
If you want to enjoy breakfast empanadas later, you can double the recipe and freeze the unbaked empanadas. Just thaw and bake when ready to enjoy. This is a great option for meal prep or when you want to have a quick breakfast on hand.

Conclusion

Breakfast empanadas are a delicious and portable breakfast option that can be enjoyed on busy mornings or even as a special weekend treat. With a few simple ingredients and some basic preparation, you can create a savory or sweet filling that suits your taste preferences. Get creative with different variations and make-ahead options to make breakfast empanadas a versatile addition to your breakfast repertoire. Whether you’re a fan of traditional flavors or looking to try something new, breakfast empanadas are sure to satisfy your morning cravings.