Delicious Baked Shrimp Empanadas Recipe
Ladies and Gentlemen, let me introduce you to a mouth-watering recipe that will tantalize your taste buds with its delectable flavors. I present to you the Baked Shrimp Empanadas Recipe – a dish that combines the richness of American and Brazilian cuisine.
Filled with succulent shrimp, aromatic cilantro, and zesty lime, these baked empanadas are sure to be an all-time favorite at any gathering. These golden-brown delights are packed full of flavor and have a crispy texture that is sure to leave you craving for more.
The empanadas de camarones are easy to make, affordable, and can be served as the perfect appetizer, snack or entrée. With just 30 minutes of preparation, you can have a tasty meal on the table in no time.
So come along and join me on this culinary adventure as we explore the best shrimp empanadas recipe out there. Whether you are a seafood lover or not, this dish promises to delight your palate and leave you satisfied. Get your baking sheet ready; it’s time to make some empanadas!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
My dear reader, allow me to introduce you to a dish that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more – the Baked Shrimp Empanadas. I must say, this recipe has quickly become one of my favorites, and I have a feeling it will become one of yours too.
What is it about the Baked Shrimp Empanadas that makes them stand out amongst the vast array of empanada recipes? Well, for starters, they are healthful baked instead of fried, which means they are lower in fat and calories without compromising on flavor or texture. Secondly, the mix of shrimp, spices, and fresh herbs (including cilantro and lime) gives each bite a burst of zesty goodness that is hard to resist.
To truly appreciate the complexity of this dish, allow me to break down its ingredients. Here we have large shrimps cooked with garlic, onion, plum tomato, adobo seasoning, chipotle chile in adobo sauce, and sharpened with a sprinkle of salt. The filling then goes into homemade dough circles and bakes until golden brown in the oven. Finally, we top it off with an egg wash and some coarse salt for an extra bit of crunch.
No other seafood empanada recipe can match the combination of flavors and textures this recipe offers. Furthermore, this easy-to-follow recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish so it’s perfect for when you want to whip up a quick meal that feels like anything but rushed.
So dear reader do not hesitate any longer! Switch up your usual seafood routine with this fantastic baked shrimp empanada recipe that combines all the flavor essentials into one exquisite bite. I guarantee once you have tried it; you won’t be able to resist sharing it with your family and friends.
Ingredient List
Here is a list of the ingredients you will need to make these flavorful baked shrimp empanadas:
- Pie crust or empanada dough: You can either use store bought dough or make your own from scratch. Corn masa can also be used as a gluten-free option.
- Unsalted butter: This will add richness and flavor to the dough.
- All-purpose flour: The flour is essential to hold the empanadas together.
- Salt: A pinch of salt will enhance the flavor in the dough.
- Large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Make sure to get fresh and high-quality shrimp for the best taste.
- Chipotle pepper in adobo sauce: This will add spicy and smoky flavor to the filling.
- Mayonnaise: This ingredient will help bind everything together while adding creaminess.
- Lime juice: Fresh lime juice adds brightness to counterbalance the rich filling.
- Cilantro: For a fresh herb taste in both the filling and topping
- Adobo seasoning or cumin: Adds a savory and slightly spicy flavor.
- Scallions or onion: Adds a mild onion flavor to balance out the spice and herb flavors.
- Plum tomato, seeded and chopped: This juicy tomato ingredient will bring freshness to the filling.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Garlic adds depth of flavor in both the dough and filling.
For garnish, you’ll need:
- Coarse salt
- More chopped cilantro
- An egg wash to brush on top, giving your empanadas crispy golden brown look
The Recipe How-To
Before you begin making the baked shrimp empanadas, you should ensure that all of the ingredients are readily accessible. To make this dish, you will need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon adobo seasoning
- juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro leaves
- 1 plum tomato, seeded and chopped
- 1/3 cup finely chopped scallions
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
Prep Your Shrimp Mixture
Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Once preheated, begin prepping your shrimp mixture. In a bowl, combine your shrimp, garlic, mayonnaise, adobo, and lime juice. Stir gently until ingredients are well mixed.
Next, heat up a large skillet on medium-high heat with olive oil. Sauté the onions for about a minute or two before adding your shrimp mixture to the skillet. Cook for about four minutes or until pink before adding your cilantro leaves, tomato, scallions, and chipotle pepper. Stir everything together well and then remove from heat.
Assemble Your Baked Shrimp Empanadas
To assemble your shrimp empanadas, take some pie crusts or empanada dough circles and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Add a scoop of your shrimp mixture to the center of each circle.
Fold over the other half of the crust or dough circle to cover the filling completely in a half-moon shape. Pro tip: use a fork to seal the edges of your empanadas.
Bake Your Empanadas until Golden Brown
Brush the tops of your empanadas with egg wash and sprinkle some coarse salt on top. Place them in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
This recipe produces crispy baked shrimp empanadas that are sure to please any seafood lover.
Substitutions and Variations
Welcome, dear reader. In this section, I will reveal my secrets on how to make the perfect substitutions and variations of the Baked Shrimp Empanadas recipe. Whether you want to add a unique twist or you’re missing an ingredient, these tips are sure to help you create empanadas that suit your taste buds perfectly.
1. Corn Masa instead of All-Purpose Flour
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using corn masa instead of all-purpose flour for the dough circles. It adds a slightly different taste and texture, but it still yields deliciously crispy empanadas.
2. Beef or Seafood Empanadas
Shrimp isn’t the only seafood that can find a home in an empanada. Try substituting the shrimp for your favorite seafood like crab or lobster, or add a mix of seafood for a delicious seafood medley.
If you’re more in the mood for savory beef empanadas, try ground beef instead of shrimp. Brown the beef before adding it to the filling mixture, then proceed as usual with the baking steps.
3. Spicier Empanada Filling
To give your empanadas some extra heat, try adding some chopped chipotle peppers or jalapenos to the shrimp mixture during preparation.
Also, using spicy adobo seasoning will give your empanada filling a kick of heat too.
4. Pie Crust instead of Empanada Dough
If you’re pressed for time and don’t have time to make empanada dough from scratch, grab pre-made pie crusts from your local grocery store. They work just as well for creating golden brown baked treats.
5. Cheese Shrimp Empanadas
Who doesn’t love cheese? Mix some parmesan cheese into the prepared shrimp filling mixture and enjoy gooey and delicious cheese shrimp empanadas.
There you have it! These substitutions and variations are straightforward and will not disappoint. Keep exploring and making these recipes your own by adding new ingredients, testing out different seasonings, and playing with their textures. The options are endless!
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving baked shrimp empanadas, you have several options for an unforgettable meal. These empanadas are a delightful and crispy way to indulge in the best shrimp empanadas recipe. They can be served as an appetizer or main dish, depending on your mood.
Pair your baked shrimp empanadas with a zesty salsa or guacamole sauce to add some extra kick to the flavor. The freshness of cilantro and lime will enhance the taste of the empanada filling. You may also serve these empanadas with rice or beans if you want a more substantial meal.
For a more delightful experience, I suggest serving the empanadas alongside a side salad of lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and avocado drizzled with vinaigrette dressing. The combination of flavors will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
If you’re looking for a beverage pairing idea, try serving the empanadas with a refreshing beer or margarita cocktail. A light and crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, would also pair well with the spicy flavors of these baked shrimp parmesan or shrimp cheese empanadas.
No matter how you choose to serve your baked shrimp empanadas, they’re sure to become one of your favorites. The deliciously crispy and golden brown dough circles filled with spicy shrimp offset by the savory ragu old world-style traditional sauce make for an incredible experience that you simply won’t be able to resist.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
As a busy chef, I understand the importance of being able to prepare dishes ahead of time, and this recipe offers great options for both making ahead and reheating for later enjoyment.
To make ahead, assemble your shrimp empanadas as instructed in the recipe, then tightly wrap them in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze until ready to bake. These frozen shrimp empanadas can be placed on a baking sheet and baked from frozen at 400 degrees F for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
If you have leftover baked shrimp empanadas, they can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the empanadas on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 400 degrees F for about 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
Keep in mind that empanadas are best when enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but these make-ahead and storing tips will keep them tasting delicious even if you need to prepare them in advance. So don’t be afraid to make extras of these mouth-watering baked shrimp empanadas – they’re sure to disappear quickly!
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to making baked shrimp empanadas, achieving the perfect crispy texture is key. Here are a few tips to help you achieve the best result possible.
First, make sure your oven is preheated to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. A properly preheated oven ensures that your empanadas will cook evenly and have a golden-brown crust.
Next, brush each empanada with egg wash before baking. This will give them a shiny, golden appearance once they’re baked.
To make sure the filling stays inside the empanadas and doesn’t seep out during baking, be careful not to overfill them. It’s recommended to fill each empanada with about two tablespoons of filling.
Additionally, it’s important to place the empanadas on a well-greased baking sheet or sheet pan. This ensures that they don’t stick and also helps with their texture.
Lastly, keep an eye on the empanadas while they’re baking in the oven. They should take about 20-25 minutes to cook to a golden-brown color. Don’t be afraid to bake them for an extra minute or two if necessary – this will ensure a crispy texture and flavorful filling when you take that first bite.
By following these tips, you’re sure to create perfect baked shrimp empanadas every time!
FAQ
Before we conclude this article, I’d like to answer some frequently asked questions about this savory dish. After baking these delicious shrimp empanadas, many readers have reached out to me with a few questions about the recipe. So, I’ve compiled a list of responses to the most common inquiries to help you execute this recipe with ease and confidence. Read on for some insights into achieving the perfect baked shrimp empanadas!
Can empanadas be baked instead of fried?
Absolutely! If you’re considering a healthier alternative to frying your empanadas, baking them is an excellent option. The perfect way to achieve a crispy and golden-brown crust without the added calories. Just brush them with an egg wash comprised of egg and water and bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes at a temperature of 400 degrees.
How long does it take to bake empanadas?
To begin, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, give your empanadas a nice egg wash and use a knife to gently pierce the top to allow steam to escape. Then, pop them into the oven and let them bake for 20 to 25 minutes until they’re a delightful golden brown color. Once they’re done baking, you can choose to enjoy them immediately or let them cool to room temperature before indulging.
Are baked empanadas crispy?
Looking for a tasty and easy-to-make dish to share with loved ones? These baked empanadas made with ground beef are sure to impress and won’t take more than 45 minutes from start to finish.
What temperature should empanadas be cooked at?
If you are planning to enjoy a delightful snack or appetizer, empanadas are a great option. To bake them to perfection, begin by preheating the oven to 400 degrees. Next, prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper to avoid having the empanadas stick to the surface. Place the empanadas on the sheet and use a brush to apply an egg wash on top of each, carefully avoiding the crimped edges. This will ensure your empanadas have a beautiful golden sheen post baking. Lastly, bake your empanadas for 30 to 40 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through. This will help make sure that they are evenly cooked and turn out perfectly golden-brown.
Can you bake empanadas on aluminum foil?
For those opting for an egg-free version of the empanadas, feel free to skip this step as it primarily encourages browning. Once the empanadas are ready to be baked, place them on a sheet pan that has been lightly sprayed with non-stick cooking spray and lined with foil. Bake them until they reach a crisp and golden brown texture, which usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes.
How do you keep empanadas crispy?
Maintaining the crispiness of fried foods is easy peasy. Simply position them on a cooling rack that is atop a baking sheet. If you’re frying a large amount, plop the entire setup into a warm oven to keep everything toasty while continuing to fry and arrange on the rack.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, these baked shrimp empanadas recipe are not only a delicious and flavorful meal option, but they are also an easy and budget-friendly way to impress your guests or satisfy your own cravings. With the perfect blend of spices and ingredients, these empanadas will leave you craving for more. Whether you prefer spicy or mild flavors, this recipe can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences.
So why not try out this recipe for yourself and indulge in some crispy and golden-brown empanadas that are sure to leave your taste buds rejoicing? With simple instructions and readily available ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds. Trust me, once you take a bite of these baked shrimp empanadas, you’ll agree that they are the best shrimp empanadas recipe you’ve ever tasted!
Baked Shrimp Empanadas Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb uncooked large shrimp, peeled, deveined and chopped (and dried*)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, through garlic press
- 1 plum tomato, seeded and diced
- 1 chipotle chile in adobo, diced
- 1 tablespoon sauce from the chipotle pepper
- 1/4 cup mango coconut pepper sauce (optional)
- 1/4 cup cilantro, cleaned and chopped
- 2 scallions, minced
- 3/4 tablespoon kosher coarse salt
- 1/2 lime, juiced
Chipotle Mayo
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon chipotles chile, minced
- 1 tablespoon of sauce from the chipotle adobo seasoning
- 1/2 lime, juiced
- 2 -3 tablespoons cilantro, minced
- 1 pinch salt
EMPANADA DOUGH
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup lard
- 2 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup ice water
Instructions
- Peel and devein shrimp and place them into a colander to drain.
- Note: I used frozen shrimp that is already peeled and deveined. All I had to do was remove the tail. Set up a cooking tray or baking sheet and with paper towels. Transfer the shrimp onto tray with paper towels. Cover with another row of paper towels and press down. Place shrimp in refrigerator.
- In the meantime, remove the empanada pastry discs from freezer and cut packages open. Allow to defrost for 10-15 minutes before you start separating them. Each disc is separated by a piece of plastic. All you have to do is pry them gently apart and the warmth from your hands is enough to make them pliable to work with.
- Chop and combine the remaining ingredients in a large bowl and set aside. Pull shrimp out of refrigerator and discard paper towels. Chop shrimp into small pieces and add to the bowl with the onion and herbs. Mix well and set aside.
- Line three baking sheets with parchment paper and lightly spray parchment with cooking spray.
- Separate the discs and place a heaping tablespoon of the shrimp mixture into the center of a disc. Wet you fingers with water and dampen the inside edge of the pastry disc. Fold the disc in half so the ends meet and crimp the edges with a fork. Place the empanadas on the baking sheets. They can be right next to each other. You should be able to fit 12-14 on each baking sheet. You can use the space in the center of the baking sheet to fit in a couple more.
- Brush the egg wash on each empanada.
- Bake at 400° for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Directions for sauce.
- Add ingredients to small bowl and mix well. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Dora
Dora is a chef well-versed in Brazilian and American cuisine. After a hard day's work in the kitchen of her restaurant, she finds the time to jot down recipes for her food blog. Her recipes are sure to delight foodies everywhere, as she strives to make each one unique and enjoyable to read.