Appetizer

Cheesy Empanadas with Rajas de Poblano

★★★★★ 4.6 (699)

These cheesy empanadas are filled with tender strips of roasted poblano peppers, creating a perfect balance of creamy and smoky flavors. They make a delicious snack or appetizer that’s sure to impress your friends and family.

◷ 45 min Total Time

♜ 4 Servings

▥ Medium Difficulty

Jump to Recipe ↓

Ingredients

4 servings

1 large poblano pepper 1 cup grated Manchego cheese 12 empanada pastry discs (such as Goya® Tapas para Empanadas) 1 egg, beaten

Golden Potato Slices

Instructions

Roast and Peel Poblanos

Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. To prepare the poblanos, place them directly on the gas stove grates over medium heat. Turn them occasionally with tongs until the skin is nicely charred and blackened, which should take about 5 minutes. Once done, pop them into a sealed plastic bag to steam and cool for about 7 to 8 minutes. After they’ve cooled, peel off the burnt skin, remove the seeds, and chop the flesh into roughly 1-inch pieces.

Fill and Seal Empanadas

Next, grab your empanada discs and spoon about 1 1/2 tablespoons of Manchego cheese onto each one. Add around half a tablespoon of the chopped poblanos on top. Fold the dough over to cover the filling, then wet your fingers with a bit of water and run them along the edges to help seal everything together. Press the edges firmly so they stay closed.

Brush and Bake Empanadas

Place the filled empanadas on your prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with a beaten egg to give them a nice golden finish. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 24 to 26 minutes, or until they’re beautifully golden and crispy. Enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These empanadas combine creamy cheese with the smoky, slightly spicy flavor of poblano peppers. They are crispy on the outside and soft inside, making each bite a perfect mix of textures. This dish is both comforting and full of bold flavors, ideal for any occasion.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a side of tangy salsa or guacamole to add freshness. A simple salad with lime dressing also pairs well, balancing the richness of the cheese and peppers. These are great as appetizers or a main dish.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to keep the crust crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the dough soggy.