Authentic Argentine Ham and Cheese Empanadas: My Budget-Friendly Recipe

Searching for a simple, affordable recipe to impress your guests? Argentine empanadas are the perfect choice.

Empanadas are an iconic symbol of Argentina. Available everywhere—from street vendors to restaurants—for about 4 pesos (around 60 cents) each, they come in countless fillings.

Today, I'll share my favorite: classic ham and cheese empanadas. As someone who's enjoyed these daily in Argentina, I've perfected this homemade version that's crispy, flavorful, and easy to make.

Ingredients for Ham and Cheese Empanadas

Serves 4 (3 empanadas each, total 12):

For the puff pastry:

• 230 g flour
• 180 g butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 20 g flour (for dusting)

For the filling:

• 400 g ham
• 150 g grated cheese
• 1 egg yolk
• Pinch of pepper

Step-by-Step Preparation

First, prepare the puff pastry—the key to that signature crispiness and flavor:

1. Cut the butter into small pieces.
2. In a bowl, mix the flour and salt, add the butter, and stir with a spatula while adding water gradually until the dough is soft.
3. On a floured surface, shape into a rectangle, roll out to 2 cm thick.
4. Fold into thirds lengthwise, then fold edges to seal. Roll to 1.2 cm thick, chill 20 minutes. Repeat 4 times.
5. Final chill: 10 minutes.

Now, the filling:

1. Chop ham into large pieces, mix with grated cheese.
2. Add a pinch of pepper.
3. Cut pastry into 10 cm circles.
4. Place 1 tablespoon filling on one half of each circle.
5. Brush edges with beaten egg yolk, fold and seal securely.
6. Brush tops with yolk, bake at 150°C until golden.

These empanadas are versatile—perfect as appetizers, starters, or a hearty main.

Incredible Savings

With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is budget-friendly. Breakdown: flour 70¢, butter 50¢, cheese €1, ham €1.50, egg 50¢.

Total under €4.50 for 12 delicious empanadas feeding 4.

What do you think of this recipe? Questions or variations? Share in the comments!