Empanada makers aren’t just for empanadas anymore! With a dash of creativity, they can become one of your kitchen’s most versatile tools.
From breakfast to dessert, your empanada press can help you shape, seal, and bake or fry a variety of delicious foods.
Try these 15 fun and unexpected uses for your empanada maker, and turn it into your culinary secret weapon!
1. Mini Calzones
Imagine the cheesy goodness of a pizza tucked neatly into a handheld pocket. Mini calzones are perfect for lunchboxes or a quick snack.
With your empanada maker, you can easily create these delightful pizza pockets that are both fun and practical. Fill them with mozzarella, pepperoni, and marinara sauce, and watch them disappear in no time.
2. Hand Pies with Fruit Filling
Sweet, flaky, and full of flavor, fruit-filled hand pies are a treat for any dessert lover. Using an empanada maker, you can create perfect hand pies every time.
From classic apple to exotic mango, the possibilities are endless. These pies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, with golden crusts and vibrant fillings.
3. Breakfast Pockets with Eggs and Cheese
Mornings just got better with breakfast pockets filled with eggs, cheese, and maybe a sprinkle of bacon. They’re a quick and satisfying way to start the day.
Using your empanada maker, you can whip up these morning delights in no time. Customize them with your favorite breakfast ingredients for a personalized touch.
4. Homemade Pizza Rolls
Who can resist the allure of pizza rolls? These bite-sized wonders are a hit at parties and easy to make with your empanada press.
Fill them with your favorite pizza toppings like cheese, pepperoni, and sauce, and enjoy a mess-free pizza experience. They’re perfect for dipping into marinara or ranch.
5. Stuffed Cookie Dough Bites
Cookie dough bites are a sweet treat that’s hard to beat. Using your empanada maker, you can stuff them with gooey chocolate or caramel centers.
These delightful bites are perfect for those with a sweet tooth and make an excellent addition to any dessert table. The combination of crispy outer shell and molten center is irresistible.
6. Crab Rangoon
Crab Rangoon is a beloved appetizer known for its creamy filling and crispy exterior. With an empanada maker, crafting these tasty treats becomes a breeze.
Fill them with a mixture of crab, cream cheese, and green onions for an explosion of flavor. They’re perfect for parties or as a special appetizer for dinner.
7. Mini Samosas
Samosas are a flavorful treat loved around the world, and making them mini with your empanada maker adds a fun twist.
Fill them with traditional spiced potatoes and peas, or experiment with other fillings like cheese or meat. They’re perfect for snacks or appetizers.
8. Pierogi
Pierogi, the beloved Eastern European dumplings, can be easily made with your empanada press. Fill them with classic potato and cheese or explore other flavors like sauerkraut or mushrooms.
Boil them and then finish with a quick pan-fry for a crispy finish. Serve with sour cream and caramelized onions for a comforting meal.
9. Apple Turnovers
Apple turnovers are a timeless dessert that can be easily crafted with an empanada maker. Fill them with spiced apples and seal them to perfection.
The flaky crust and sweet filling make them a delightful treat for any occasion. Pair with coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
10. Spinach and Feta Pockets
These savory pockets combine the rich flavors of spinach and feta cheese, encased in a crispy shell.
Using an empanada maker, you can achieve perfect results every time. They’re great for appetizers or a light lunch, providing a tasty and nutritious option.
11. Cheeseburger Bites
Who needs a full-sized burger when you can have bite-sized cheeseburger delights? Your empanada maker can help you craft these tasty morsels easily.
Fill them with ground beef, cheese, and pickles for a classic cheeseburger taste in a convenient package. They’re perfect for parties or a fun family meal.
12. S’mores Pockets
Transform the campfire classic into a handheld delight with s’mores pockets. Use your empanada maker to seal in chocolate, marshmallows, and graham cracker crumbs.
These sweet pockets are perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy night in. They’re sure to evoke memories of campfires and outdoor fun.
13. Falafel-Stuffed Dough
Add a Middle Eastern twist to your meal with falafel-stuffed dough. Using your empanada maker, you can easily fold and bake these delightful pockets.
Filled with spiced chickpea falafel, they offer a flavorful and satisfying option for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
14. Chicken Alfredo Hand Pies
Chicken Alfredo hand pies bring the classic pasta dish to a convenient handheld form. With your empanada maker, you can create these creamy delights with ease.
Fill the dough with chicken, Alfredo sauce, and cheese for a rich and comforting meal. They’re perfect for lunch or dinner on the go.
15. Nutella-Banana Dessert Pockets
Nutella and banana make a dreamy combination, and dessert pockets are a delightful way to enjoy them. Use your empanada maker to create these sweet treats.
Filled with creamy Nutella and slices of banana, they offer a rich and satisfying dessert option. They’re perfect for satisfying late-night cravings or serving at a casual gathering.