These Savory Sweet Potato and Caramelized Onion Empanadas are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to impress. With a crispy golden exterior and a warm, flavorful filling, they make for a perfect appetizer or snack. The sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the rich, caramelized onions, creating a filling that is both satisfying and delicious.
Paired with a spicy aioli, these empanadas not only offer a comforting taste but also a bit of heat that elevates the entire dish. Whether you’re preparing for a gathering or looking for a delightful dinner option, these empanadas are a must-try!
Ingredients
INGREDIENTS
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 package of empanada dough (or homemade if preferred)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- For Spicy Aioli: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon sriracha, 1 clove garlic minced, juice of 1/2 lemon, pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Boil the sweet potatoes in a pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash until smooth.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and salt, cooking until they are caramelized, about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the onions are caramelized, stir them into the mashed sweet potatoes. Add black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix until well combined.
- On a clean surface, lay out the empanada dough circles. Place a generous spoonful of the sweet potato mixture in the center of each circle.
- Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
- Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- While the empanadas bake, prepare the spicy aioli by mixing all aioli ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
- Serve the hot empanadas with the spicy aioli on the side. Enjoy!
Notes
Tip: For an extra crispy texture, consider frying the empanadas instead of baking them.
For the best results, make sure to let your caramelized onions cook low and slow until they are golden brown and sweet. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought empanada dough, which will save you some prep time.
Feel free to customize the filling by adding ingredients like black beans or cheese for extra flavor. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven to retain their crispiness.
