Sourdough Discard Empanadas

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Sourdough Discard Empanadas

Sourdough Discard Empanadas are flaky, golden hand pies filled with a savory, flavorful filling and wrapped in a tender sourdough discard dough. They are a perfect way to use extra discard while making something hearty and satisfying. These empanadas bake up crisp on the outside and warm and delicious inside, making them great for meals, snacks, or parties.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These empanadas are flaky outside and juicy inside with rich savory flavor. The sourdough discard adds tenderness and depth without making the dough sour. They are easy to make ahead, freezer-friendly, and very versatile. You can serve them as a snack, lunch, or dinner. They are also portable, making them great for picnics or lunchboxes. The dough is forgiving and easy to handle, even for beginners.

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 1 cup sourdough discard
  • 2½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup cold butter, cubed
  • 1 egg
  • 2–4 tablespoons cold water
    For the Filling (Beef Example)
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • ½ onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional: chopped olives or cooked potatoes
    For Assembly
  • 1 egg for egg wash

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Make the Dough
In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Stir in sourdough discard and egg. Add cold water one tablespoon at a time until dough forms. Knead lightly, wrap, and chill 30–60 minutes.


Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Heat olive oil in a pan. Cook onion and garlic until soft. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in spices, salt, pepper, and tomato sauce. Cook a few minutes, then cool completely.


Step 3: Roll and Fill
Roll dough to about ⅛-inch thick. Cut circles using a bowl or cutter. Place filling in the center. Fold over and seal edges with a fork.


Step 4: Egg Wash
Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.


Step 5: Bake
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden brown. Cool slightly before serving.

Variations

  • Use shredded chicken instead of beef
  • Make a cheese and spinach filling
  • Try pizza-style with mozzarella and pepperoni
  • Add jalapeños for spice
  • Make sweet versions with apple or berries

Cooking Notes

  • Always cool the filling before adding to dough so it does not make the dough soggy or hard to seal
  • Do not overfill or the empanadas may burst while baking
  • Chilling the dough helps create a flaky texture and makes rolling easier
  • If dough feels sticky, dust lightly with flour but avoid too much or it becomes dry
  • Bake until truly golden, not pale, for the best crisp texture
  • Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even browning
  • Let them rest a few minutes after baking so the filling sets and does not spill out

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm with salsa, chimichurri, or garlic yogurt sauce for dipping
  • Pair with a fresh salad for a balanced meal
  • Add rice and beans on the side for a hearty dinner
  • Cut smaller for party appetizers
  • Pack in lunchboxes because they hold up well
  • Serve with soup for a cozy meal
  • Offer different dips so guests can choose flavors

Tips

  • Use discard that is recently fed or not too old for best dough texture
  • Make double and freeze extras before baking
  • Seal edges well to prevent leaking
  • Use parchment paper for easy cleanup
  • Reheat in oven or air fryer to keep them crispy
  • Label freezer batches with date and filling type
  • Roll dough evenly so all empanadas bake at the same rate

Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Chill Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Nutritional Information (Approx.)

  • Calories: 260
  • Carbs: 28g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Protein: 10g

FAQs

Can I freeze them?
Yes, freeze before or after baking up to 2 months.


Do they taste sour?
No, discard adds richness, not sourness.


Can I fry instead of bake?
Yes, fry at 350°F until golden.


How to store?
Refrigerate up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Sourdough Discard Empanadas are a smart and delicious way to use extra starter while making a comforting, flaky, and flavorful meal. They are easy, flexible, and loved by everyone. Once you try them, they will become a regular recipe in your kitchen.

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