National Dish Uruguay: Cheese and Onion Empanadas (Recipe)
In this article
Say hello to cheese and onion empanadas, a true highlight of Uruguayan home cooking. These golden little pastry parcels wrap soft, sweet onions around a generous helping of melting cheese, all tucked inside a tender, flaky crust. They are wonderfully versatile and suit just about any occasion, whether you are feeding a crowd of friends or sitting down to a cosy supper for two. Best of all, they come together with a handful of fresh ingredients and very little fuss.
About Cheese and Onion Empanadas
Cheese and onion empanadas are a genuine treat from the Uruguayan kitchen. These delicious pastry parcels balance the gentle sweetness of slowly cooked onions against the rich, savoury pull of melted cheese. They are endlessly adaptable and perfect for any moment, be it a lively gathering with friends or a relaxed dinner at home. Thanks to their simple preparation and fresh ingredients, they have earned a firm place in many households and remain a beloved part of everyday Uruguayan food.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 150 g plain flour
- 75 ml water
- 50 ml olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 100 g melting cheese (such as mozzarella or Gouda)
- 1 egg (for an egg wash, optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Shopping for the ingredients
To make the very best cheese and onion empanadas, it pays to choose fresh, good-quality ingredients. Visit your local market or supermarket and look for crisp onions and a cheese that melts well. Make sure the flour is nice and fine so the dough turns out beautifully tender. Olive oil plays an essential role too, so opt for a good-quality bottle to get the best possible flavour. If you enjoy this style of cooking, you will find plenty more to explore across Uruguayan cuisine.
Preparing the dish
Preparing the empanadas is straightforward and genuinely enjoyable. Begin by frying the onions in a pan with a little olive oil until they are soft and lightly caramelised. While the onions cool, you can make the dough by combining the flour with water and olive oil. It is important to knead the dough thoroughly so that it reaches just the right consistency before you roll it out.
Step-by-step instructions
- Combine the flour, water and olive oil in a bowl until you have a smooth dough.
- Cover the dough and leave it to rest for 30 minutes.
- Fry the diced onions in olive oil until soft, then leave them to cool.
- Divide the dough into small portions and roll each one out thinly.
- Top the dough rounds with a mixture of onions and cheese.
- Fold the parcels over and press the edges firmly to seal.
- Bake the empanadas at 180°C for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
For a gluten-free version of these empanadas, you can use a gluten-free flour blend. It is worth choosing the right combination so the structure of the pastry parcels holds together properly. For a lactose-free variation, swap the cheese for a plant-based alternative that also melts nicely. There are now plenty of products on the market that work brilliantly and take nothing away from the flavour. The same swaps work well in cheesier bakes such as Pan de Queso.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Vegans can easily adapt cheese and onion empanadas by replacing the animal products with plant-based alternatives. Instead of cheese, try a nut-based cheese or a pale plant cream. The onions can also be combined with a variety of other vegetables to make the filling more interesting. These options open up a whole range of flavours and textures to suit every kind of diet, much as you would find in Empanadas de Verdura.
More tips and tricks
One important trick when making empanadas is to make sure the dough is not too thick. A thin dough guarantees a crisp texture and helps the filling cook through evenly. A pinch of spice, such as paprika or chilli powder, can also lend the dish an exciting note. Let your creativity run free and experiment with different fillings and seasonings to find the combination you love best.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The wonderful thing about cheese and onion empanadas is how versatile they are. You can easily tailor the recipe to your own personal preferences. For instance, you might add ham or mushrooms to the filling for an extra depth of flavour. It is also worth looking at which regional or seasonal ingredients you can work in, so you can vary the dish while keeping everything fresh. For a meatier take, the filling of Empanadas de Jamón y Queso makes a fine starting point.
Ingredient substitutions
In many households some ingredients are not always to hand. Instead of olive oil, you can use sunflower oil without any great difference in flavour. When it comes to the cheese, you can choose between many varieties depending on your taste and what is available. Vegetables can likewise be changed according to the season, so you can always make the most of whatever is on offer.
Drink pairing ideas
A range of drinks pairs beautifully with cheese and onion empanadas. A light red wine or a crisp white can make an excellent accompaniment. For alcohol-free options, freshly squeezed juices or simple sparkling water with a slice of lemon are perfect. These drinks lift the flavours of the dish and round out a harmonious tasting experience.
Serving and presentation ideas
A thoughtful way of serving the empanadas can really enhance the meal. Arrange them on an attractive plate, perhaps with a small bowl of homemade salsa or guacamole alongside. Garnishing with fresh herbs such as parsley or coriander adds a lovely fresh touch. Do not forget to offer your guests a few lime wedges to brighten the dish even further.
A bit of history
The empanada has its origins in Spain, but over the centuries it found its way into Latin American cooking. In Uruguay these parcels are not only a popular street food but also a fixture at celebrations and festivals. Each region has its own speciality and variations that enrich the culinary heritage. With every batch you can feel the connection to tradition and to treasured family recipes, much like the much-loved Empanadas Criollas.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Cheese and Onion Empanadas
Cheese and onion empanadas are a wonderful introduction to the Uruguayan kitchen. Their versatility makes them a popular choice as a snack, a starter or even a main course. With their simple preparation, they can easily be adapted to suit different dietary preferences. It is well worth giving these delicious pastry parcels a try and savouring the flavours of South America for yourself.
