empanada de calabaza recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best empanada de calabaza recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite empanada de calabaza recipe, which has been a staple in our household for years. This traditional Latin American dish is made with a flaky pastry crust and filled with a delicious mixture of roasted squash, onions, and spices.

The combination of flavors and textures is absolute perfection. My kids love helping me assemble the empanadas, and they’re always a hit at family gatherings.

Whether we’re having a casual dinner or a special occasion, empanada de calabaza is always a good idea. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also relatively healthy, making it a great option for those looking for a nutritious meal.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, even for a beginner in the kitchen. I’ve experimented with various fillings over the years, but the classic combination of squash and onions remains my top choice.

It’s simply irresistible. The key to making empanada de calabaza is to use high-quality ingredients and to not overfill the pastry crust, allowing the filling to shine through.

I’ve found that using frozen squash works just as well as fresh, and it’s so much easier to work with. When I’m feeling adventurous, I like to add some chopped cilantro or scallions on top of the empanadas for an extra burst of flavor.

Empanada de Calabaza (Pumpkin Empanada)

4.5 from 1299 votes

Empanada de Calabaza is a savory pastry filled with a delicious pumpkin mixture, seasoned with spices and cheese. This recipe is perfect for a hearty snack or light meal.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 cup cold water
1/2 cup olive oil

For the Filling

1 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 cup grated cheese
salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
3Add the cold water and olive oil, then mix until a dough forms.
4Knead the dough briefly until smooth.
5Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
6Using a rolling pin, roll out each ball of dough on a lightly floured surface until it is about 1/8 inch thick.
7In a separate pan, sauté the finely chopped onion over medium heat until translucent.
8Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
9Add the pumpkin puree, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
10Stir well to combine and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly.
11Remove from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.
12Stir in the grated cheese.
13Place a spoonful of the pumpkin filling in the center of each dough circle.
14Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
15Use a fork to crimp the edges, sealing the empanada.
16Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
17Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
18Remove from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes before serving.
19Enjoy your Empanada de Calabaza warm or at room temperature.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Rolling pin
Baking sheet
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 15mg🧂Sodium: 450mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 8g

📝Notes

Tips: Ensure the dough is cold before rolling to prevent it from becoming sticky. You can also add a beaten egg to the dough for a golden crust.

Watch Video Of How Empanada de Calabaza (Pumpkin Empanada) Works

I love that empanada de calabaza is such an adaptable recipe – perfect for everyday meals or special occasions alike!

One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it stores beautifully in the freezer for up to three months, making it an excellent option for meal prep or batch cooking.

Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven or microwave when needed.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Empanada de Calabaza (Pumpkin Empanada)

1. What is empanada de calabaza?

Empanada de calabaza is a traditional Latin American dish made with a flaky pastry crust and filled with a delicious mixture of roasted squash, onions, and spices.

2. What type of squash should I use?

You can use either acorn or butternut squash for this recipe. Acorn squash has a slightly sweeter flavor, while butternut squash has a more nutty taste.

3. Can I make empanada de calabaza ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the filling and assemble the empanadas ahead of time. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them.

4. How do I freeze empanada de calabaza?

To freeze empanada de calabaza, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and put them in the freezer until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for storage.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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