Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so why not make it unforgettable? On this blog, I focus on revolutionizing your mornings by offering an astonishingly simple yet mouth watering recipe – Breakfast Empanadas. These delicious pockets of goodness waiting to be devoured are filled with delightful ingredients such as juicy sausages, crispy bacon and many more that surely will energize your day. This recipe is perfect for anyone trying to whip out a quick breakfast during the busy weekdays, planning a brunch over the weekend or even trying to impress family and friends. Prepare yourself to level up your mornings with these magical breakfast pockets.
What Are Breakfast Empanadas and Why Are They The Perfect Morning Meal?
Breakfast Empanadas and Their Origin
Morning empanadas are a modern take on a traditional fenomenal dish. These spiced pockets are made with a buttery golden crust, flaky and crisp, favored by many in the morning, and stuffed with basic breakfast ingredients like vegetables, cheese, sausage, eggs, and bacon. They are very practical in the course of busy mornings or while commuting. Pancakes Brooklyn They offer the flexibility to be tailored to suit individual tastes. They are not only delicious, satisfying the taste buds, these breakfast empanadas are very easy to store and reheat, effective for prepped meals. Grab-and-go foods which are also very hearty and rich in comfort make for a mouthwatering experience. These breakfast pancakes truly are the best way to set the tone for the day.
Why Breakfast Empanadas Make a Good Breakfast on the Go
Breakfast empanadas are perfect for those busy mornings because they are easy to consume and quite filling. You can more than manage breakfast while on the go because its compact structure allows easy commuting, running errands, or dealing with a busy schedule. Unlike traditional breakfasts where you would need utensils and dishes, empanadas are self-contained and can be easily consumed anywhere. Aside from that, the filling contains high protein, healthy fats, and other vital nutrients which gives you enough energy to power through the morning. Breakfast empanadas are practical and nutritious, and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Difference Between Breakfast Empanadas and Breakfast Burritos
The most notable aspect differentiating breakfast empanadas and breakfast burritos is the shape. In my experience, they have both obtainable and complex qualities; breakfast empanadas are more portable, but feel less messy. Additionally, because they are sealed pastries, I don’t need to fret about fillings falling out as is the case with burritos. Conversely, breakfast burritos can have more ingredients which adds space. This enhances the taste and flavor breakfast burritos depending on how they are made. Ultimately, the choice lies on my mood. Both are mouthwatering, however, if I am whipped and require more compact food, I normally grab an empanada – it both filled and portable.
What Are the Best Breakfast Empanada Fillings?
Breakfast Empanadas with Bacon and Fluffy Scrambled Eggs
When I think of the best fillings for breakfast empanadas, bacon and fluffy scrambled eggs will always excel. Bacon is deliciously crispy, and its meaty, smoky flavor goes well with soft, creamy scrambled eggs. This makes the combination both delicious and satisfying. Shredded cheese can also be added to the mix because its gooey texture enhances the combination’s flavor. For the added flavor, even onions, bell peppers, or a hint of salsa can be added for freshness. Not only does this ensure a hearty breakfast option, but it also captures the essence of empanadas and how versatile they are as a morning meal.
Sausage Empanadas – Breakfast Sausage or Chorizo Style
Sausage is another powerful breakfast empanada filling that will tantalize even the most selective dieters thanks to its rich and aggressive taste. Breakfast sausage and chorizo are both delicious options, and the resulting filling is sure to satisfy your hunger. In addition to the sausage, scrambled eggs, shredded cheese, and even diced potatoes can be added to give some variety and balance. Sautéed onions, garlic, and jalapeños can also be added to further deepen the aromatic flavor and add a dash of heat. The result is an extraordinary tasty tawsi empanada that is sure to Spice and Warm your day.
Best Cheese Selections for Breakfast Empanadas
For the cheese selections that best suit breakfast empanadas, I personally enjoy a blend of highly melty cheese and a few flavorful options. For instance, cheddar is always a staple and my go-to cheese when making sausage or egg breakfast empanadas due to its melting qualities and rich flavor. Monterey Jack is another one of my favorites because of its creaminess and mild taste. It always melts so good into the empanadas. If I’m on an adventurous mood, I may add a bite of uh, pepper jack cheese for a spicier touch or some crumbly queso fresco. What matters to me is to achieve a great blend of flavor and make sure the cheeses do not overpower the other ingredients.
Breakfast Options: Vegetarian Empanadas
For people who do not eat meat, vegetarian empanadas can be equally scrumptious and filling. Popular fillings include a mixture of scrambled eggs alongside sautéed bell peppers, onions, spinach, and even topped with rich mozzarella or feta cheese. You might also consider adding robust black beans or even diced sweet potatoes for additional flavor balance. For added brightness, herbs like cilantro or parsley may be added, as well as a touch of smoked paprika for some depth. Vegetarian breakfast empanadas are a wholesome, versatile dish that can be customized to suit almost any taste or dietary requirement.
How to Assemble and Cook Breakfast Empanadas?
Filling and Crimping Your Empanadas
Begin the process of making your breakfast empanadas by placing a spoonful of filling into the middle of each dough circle. Take care not to overfill them. Once you are done with filling, fold the circular shaped dough into half moon shapes and press. Crimp the edges with a fork so that there is no leakage of the content. When done, you may bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown, or fry them in boiling oil until they are crisp and well cooked. They taste better when warm.
Applying Egg Wash for Golden Brown Breakfast Empanadas
This step is extremely important if you wish to achieve a beautifully golden brown breakfast empanadas. In a bowl, whisk in one egg with a tablespoon of water/milk, and apply with a brush to the tops of the empanadas. It is imperative you do not brush too much as there is tendency for pooling. This step has a dual purpose. It gives the color, in addition to the shiny and irresistible look the empanadas will have later. After doing so, proceed to baking the empanadas as instructed, for just the right crispness and that appealing look.
Baked or Fried: Different Techniques of Preparing Food
My choice of frying or baking breakfast empanadas depends on what outcome I am hoping to obtain and the technique that works best for me. Baking is my pick when I want a lighter, drier, and less greasy option. The filling is also browned nicely at the top because of the egg wash, as well as it being prepared in a cleaner way compared to frying – without the hot oil. On the other hand, if I’m looking for a more decadent taste that is richer and has that added fried crunch, then I go with frying. There’s nothing more mouthwatering than a perfectly fried piece of food – golden crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. I appreciate both baking and frying, and I opt to do either depending on the time of the day or what I have planned.
Can You Make Breakfast Empanadas Ahead of Time?
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Breakfast Empanadas
Leftover breakfast empanadas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For long-term storage, freeze them, unwrapped, for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat the empanadas, you can reheat them in the oven using 350 degrees Fahrenheit or put them in the microwave if you’re in a hurry.
Freezing and Thawing Frozen Empanadas
I personally prefer freezing breakfast empanadas after they have cooled completely. After I do that, I put them in a freezing-safe bag or containers so I can save space. In the case that I want to eat them, I put them in the refrigerator overnight. Then, I take them out and and put them in the oven for 350 degrees Fahrenheit or the microwave, depending on how much time I have. Either way keeps the empanadas fresh after freezing.
What Are Common Mistakes When Making Breakfast Empanadas?
Don’t Overcoos the Eggs: Keeping Your Filling Moist
Excessively cooking the eggs will render your breakfast empanadas filling dry and unappetizing. To avoid dehydration, it is best to cook the eggs to the point where they are just set, meaning that they will continue to cook during the baking or reheating phase. In order to yield a moist and delicious filling, soft scrambled creamy eggs are ideal. Other ingredients such as cheese or sautéed vegetables can also improve moisture retention while adding new dimensions of richness, achieving an ideal combination of textures in the empanadas.
Proper Crimping Techniques to Avoid Leaking
Checking if your empanadas breakfast is properly sealed is important to avoid leakage from the delicious filling during baking or frying. The first step is to place the filling in the center of the dough, and under no circumstance should you overfill as this will make sealing difficult. Next, fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges down firmly. Fit for a decorative guard, you may use a fork and its tines to press the edges down. A different possibility is the traditional “repulgue” where the edge of the dough is folded and twisted in small portions that can style and decorate the crimp. However, whichever method you choose, for maximal security, make sure to prevent filling from spilling over the edges, as this will create an opportunity for severe leakage and threaten the seal. By spending the needed time to perfect crimping, you guarantee great quality leak proof empanadas each and every time!
Preventing Soggy Empanada Dough
As a personal method to prevent the dough of empanadas, I make certain to add the correct amount of filling and also check that it is not too liquid.If the filling is too moist, I try to dry it off with a paper towel to help prevent it from soaking into the dough, or I may drain it entirely. Moreover, I pre-chill the empanadas before frying or baking them because it helps the dough to hold its shape and not get too wet. Another step in my process is to use a good-quality dough that is not too thin. These practices have worked well for me, enabling me to achieve crisp empanadas all the time!
Breakfast Empanadas
Equipment
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Rolling Pin
- 1 Baking sheet
- 1 Parchment paper
- 1 Oven
- 1 Fork
- 1 Cooking brush
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cold butter cubed
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup cold water
- 4 large eggs scrambled
- 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage crumbled
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup diced tomatoes optional
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 egg beaten, for egg wash
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the dough by mixing the flour and salt in a bowl. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles crumbs. Add the egg and water, kneading until a smooth dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes.
- While the dough chills, cook the filling by scrambling the eggs and combining them with the cooked sausage, shredded cheese, tomatoes, and black pepper. Set aside.
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about ⅛-inch thickness. Cut circles (3-4 inches in diameter) using a round cutter or glass.
- Fill each circle with 1-2 tablespoons of the prepared filling. Fold the dough over to create a crescent shape and seal the edges with a fork.
- Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg wash.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
To save time, you can use store-bought empanada dough.
Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Reference sources
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Which items are needed to prepare breakfast empanadas?
A: To make basic breakfast empanadas, you will require empanada discs (store bought or homemade), eggs, cooked bacon or crumbled breakfast sausage, cheddar or pepper jack cheese, salt, and pepper. Other optional ingredients include diced bell peppers, onions, and potatoes. To make the dough from scratch, you’ll need flour, salt, cold butter, and water. Breakfast can be made using any ingredients which makes these easy breakfast empanadas adaptable.
Q: Can I use an air fryer to prepare breakfast empanadas?
A: Of course! Breakfast empanadas can be cooked in an air fryer as well. Pre-heat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), place the empanadas in a single layer (you may have to do this in batches), and air fry for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crispy. They look similar to deep fried empanadas, but are much healthier due to the minimal oil used. Just be sure to brush each empanada with an egg wash before frying for the perfect golden color.
Q: What is the best way to seal empanadas together?
Answer: To ensure empanadas are properly sealed, place the filling in the middle of each empanada disk (approx 2 tablespoons) while being careful not to overstuff. Fold the dough in half to form a semi-circle. Use your fingers to press the edges together and then use a fork to either crimp the edges or fold the edges in a decorative way. Ensure there are no gaps where the filling can escape. Futhermore, to help seal the empanada, brush them with a beaten egg prior to baking for a mouthwatering golden look.
Q: Is it possible to mix the egg filling ahead of time?
Answer: Yes, you absolutely can mix the egg filling ahead of time. Cook skirt eggs in a skillet on medium heat until just set (slightly undercooked) as they will continue to cook inside the empanadas. Allow the egg mixture to completely cool before attempting to fill the empanadas. Prepared egg mixture can last up to 24 hours if stored in an airtight container in the fridge. This makes the assembling process much quicker so you can enjoy this delicious recipe faster.
Q: In what ways can I store baked breakfast empanadas and warm them later?
A: Baked breakfast empanadas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To reheat, put them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes or until heated throughout. Alternatively, you can also reheat them in an air fryer at a temperature of 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 4 minutes to achieve a crispier result. If you want to freeze unbaked empanadas, put them on a sheet of parchment paper on a lined baking tray, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. This can be stored for a period of up to 3 months.
Q: What other variations can I make with my breakfast empanadas recipe?
A: Together with breakfast tortillas, breakfast empanadas are one of the most versatile recipes! Experimenting different cheese combinations such as pepper jack or a Mexican cheese blend is a good place to start. Another great addition are vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms or avocado to the egg mixture. For meat variations, chorizo, ham, or crumbled sausagealso work, while for sweet versions apples or bananas sprinkled with cinnamon sugar works best. For dipping enhanced by tasty flavor serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Q: What is the best way to prepare empanada dough if I cannot find ready-made discs?
A: For self-made empanada dough, first combine 3 cups all-purpose flour and 1 tsp salt in a large bowl. In a separate container, cut ½ cup of cold butter into pieces. Stir your flour mixture until it takes the form of coarse crumbs. Then, gradually pour in ¾ cup cold water while constantly stirring the mixture until it forms a ball of dough. Knead for a little while, then cover in plastic, and place in a refrigerator for 1 hour minimum. Once your dough is chilled, divide it into 12 parts and form them into balls. After that, flatten the balls into 6 inch thin discs using a rolling pin. This dough will give a perfect flaky wrap to your empanadas.
Q: Can breakfast empanadas be served for a brunch event?
A: Certainly! Social functions like breakfast and brunch are perfect occasions for empanadas and they can be made in advance and served warm or at room temperature. You can place empanadas on a baking sheet and keep them warm in a low oven until guests arrive. Guests will have no trouble you mingling with a drink in hand and the breakfast empanada in the other as they are all handheld. Consider catering a wide range of tastes by using different fillings. Empanadas are also great for brunch, as they will surely delight everyone, but they also have an edge with the rest of the brunch food which is sure to thank them for the surprise when served.
