Mini Chorizo and Manchego Empanadas

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever get stuck trying to plan the perfect football food appetizers ? These Mini Chorizo and Manchego Empanadas with Smoked Paprika Aioli are your answer.

Honestly, these game day appetizers are so good, they're practically addictive! They are finger foods for football events that everyone loves.

Brief Overview

Originating from Spanish culinary traditions, these spanish tapas appetizers elevate simple snacks into something special. These empanadas are medium difficulty, taking about an hour.

This recipe makes about 24 mini empanadas, perfect for sharing or maybe not!

Main Benefits

These empanadas are packed with flavour, and the chorizo adds a protein boost. Imagine serving these at your next Super Bowl party, they are perfect easy super bowl appetizers ! What makes them truly special? The combination of spicy, salty, and smoky.

Empanadas: More Than Just Football Snacks

Forget boring crisps and dips. Seriously, let's ditch the predictable tailgate appetizers . We're diving headfirst into flavour town. These Mini Chorizo and Manchego Empanadas are where it's at.

They are amazing football snacks !

These little pockets of deliciousness are seriously bursting with Spanish goodness. Think spicy chorizo, salty Manchego, and a hint of smoky sweetness from roasted red peppers.

All wrapped up in a flaky pastry hug. And let’s not forget that smoked paprika aioli for dipping!

They're not just party food recipes , they're an experience.

What’s Inside?

First, the empanada recipe calls for fresh ingredients. You'll need flour, butter, chorizo, Manchego cheese, and paprika. Don’t skimp on the quality, it makes all the difference.

Ingredients & Equipment

Alright, let's talk about what you'll need to whip up these awesome Mini Chorizo and Manchego Empanadas. These are seriously the perfect football food appetizers . They are so fun!

Main Ingredients for Kickoff

You'll need some specific amounts for the best results. Honestly, measurements matter in baking.

• Empanada Dough:

  • 2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour.
  • 1 tsp (5g) salt.
  • 1 cup (227g) cold unsalted butter, cubed. Key is cold butter.
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) ice water.
  • 1 large egg , beaten, for that golden finish.

• The Flavor Bomb Filling:

  • 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil.
  • 8 oz (225g) Spanish chorizo, diced. Get good quality chorizo!
  • 1/2 cup (75g) onion, chopped.
  • 1 red bell pepper , roasted and diced, is good!
  • 4 oz (115g) Manchego cheese, shredded.
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) fresh parsley, chopped.
  • 1/4 tsp (1.5g) smoked paprika.
  • Salt and pepper to taste, always .

• Smoked Paprika Aioli:

  • 1 cup (240ml) full fat mayonnaise.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced.
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) lemon juice, freshly squeezed, preferably.
  • 1 tsp (5g) smoked paprika.
  • 1/4 tsp (1.5g) cayenne pepper (optional).
  • Salt and pepper, you know the drill.

Seasoning Notes for a Touchdown

Smoked paprika is the MVP here. It's essential. The blend of garlic, lemon, and smoked paprika transforms the mayo into something special.

Want a kick? Add a pinch of cayenne. No smoked paprika? Regular paprika works, but it won't have that smoky depth.

Use garlic powder for the Aioli if you can't find fresh garlic.

These are great served as spanish tapas appetizers .

Equipment Needed for Game Day

Keep it simple. You don't need a fancy kitchen for great football snacks .

• Rolling pin: For rolling out the dough.
• 2 inch cookie cutter: Round shapes, you see
• Baking sheets: For baking.
• Parchment paper: Non-stick magic.
• Pastry brush: To apply egg wash.
• Large skillet: For cooking the filling.
• Mixing bowls: For mixing.
• Food processor (optional): Dough making is quicker, honest!.

Seriously, easy super bowl appetizers don't need fancy equipment. If you don't have a food processor, just use a bowl and a pastry blender!

I think these would be great served as finger foods for football , Or even tailgate appetizers . They are basically chorizo appetizers , you will be the star of the show!

Honestly? Once you've got all this gear, you're golden. Get ready for some seriously good party food recipes .

You know, making these empanadas always reminds me of watching the game with my mates. Good food, good company, can't beat it. Enjoy your own empanada recipe .

Game Day Glory: Mastering Mini Chorizo and Manchego Empanadas

Oh my gosh, are you ready for some serious football food appetizers ? Forget those boring chips and dip, we're diving into flavour town with these Mini Chorizo and Manchego Empanadas.

Honestly, these are the perfect football snacks or game day appetizers to wow your friends and family during the big game.

Think of them as fancy finger foods for football but totally approachable. They're like, the MVPs of tailgate appetizers !

Prep Like a Pro: Your Mise en Place Mission

Essential mise en place is key. First, measure out 300g of flour and 5g of salt . Next, cube 227g of cold butter and have 120ml of ice water ready.

For the filling, dice 225g of chorizo , chop 75g of onion , dice that roasted red pepper, and shred 115g of Manchego cheese .

Finally, mince the garlic for the aioli. Time saving tip? Roast the red pepper the day before. Makes life SO much easier!

From Dough to Deliciousness: step-by-step

1. Pulse flour, salt, and butter in a food processor until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add ice water until the dough comes together.
3. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes .
4. Sauté chorizo and onion until browned. Mix in red pepper, cheese, parsley, and smoked paprika.
5. Roll out the dough, cut into circles, and fill with the chorizo mixture.
6. Fold, crimp, and brush with egg wash.
7. Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 15- 20 minutes , until golden brown.

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Empanada Game

To avoid a soggy bottom, keep the butter ice cold for flaky pastry. Don't overfill or they'll burst! For a great seal, crimp those edges tightly.

Common mistake? Overworking the dough. Honestly, less is more! These spanish tapas appetizers can even be made ahead; just bake them right before kickoff.

Then whip up the aioli by whisking together mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika. Easy peasy, lemon squeezy, and they are the real easy super bowl appetizers .

I think these Mini Chorizo and Manchego Empanadas will make your party a win and are the real super bowl food ideas , this is more than just party food recipes ! Seriously, give these a go!

Recipe Notes for Kickoff Worthy Empanadas

Alright, so you're tackling these Mini Chorizo and Manchego Empanadas ? Excellent choice! But before you dive in headfirst, let's talk about some little things that can take your football snacks game to the next level.

Honestly, it's all about the details when it comes to easy super bowl appetizers .

Serving Suggestions: Show 'Em Off!

Presentation matters, right? These little guys are screaming out to be displayed beautifully as part of a wider range of Spanish tapas appetizers . Think about it:

• Plating and presentation ideas: Arrange the warm empanadas on a rustic wooden board. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a ramekin of that gorgeous Smoked Paprika Aioli for dipping. It gives them that "chef's kiss" vibe.
• Complementary sides or beverages: Pair these babies with a crisp, dry Spanish Albariño. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also cuts through the richness perfectly. I like to think of it as a balanced play savoury and fresh.

Storage Tips: Keep 'Em Fresh

So, you went a bit overboard making party food recipes (we've all been there). No worries! Here's how to keep those chorizo appetizers tasting tip-top:

• Refrigeration guidelines: Cooked empanadas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You know, if they even last that long.
• Freezing options (if applicable): These freeze like a dream! Wrap them individually in cling film, then place them in a freezer bag. They'll keep for up to 2 months. Just be sure they’re fully cooled before freezing.
• Reheating instructions: To reheat, bake the empanadas in a 350° F ( 175° C) oven for 10- 15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You can also use an air fryer for a super speedy reheat.

Variations: Make 'Em Your Own

Fancy a little tweak? Go for it! It is, after all, all about getting those super bowl food ideas flowing.

• Dietary Adaptations: Need a gluten-free option? Use gluten-free flour to make the dough. Boom, problem solved.

• Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: In the autumn, try adding a bit of roasted butternut squash to the filling. Seriously, that sweetness with the chorizo is amazing.

Nutrition Basics: Fuel Your Fanatics

Okay, let's keep this simple:

• Simplified nutrition information: Each empanada clocks in around 180 calories .
• Key health benefits: This recipe is a good source of protein and healthy fats from the chorizo and cheese. Just remember everything in moderation.

So there you have it! Now go forth and create some awesome finger foods for football . And remember that the best tailgate appetizers are those made with love (and a little bit of spice).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these football food appetizers ahead of time? I don't want to be stuck in the kitchen when the game's on!

Absolutely! You can prepare the empanada dough and the filling a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Then, on game day, just assemble and bake. You can even assemble the empanadas ahead of time, brush them with egg wash, and keep them refrigerated until ready to bake.

Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

I'm a bit of a novice in the kitchen is this Mini Chorizo and Manchego Empanadas recipe too difficult for a beginner?

Not at all! While the recipe is rated "Medium," you can easily simplify it by using pre-made pie crust or puff pastry. The filling and aioli are both very straightforward to make. Think of it like supporting your team even if you're new to it, you can still enjoy the excitement!

What's the best way to store leftover empanadas, and how long will they last?

Store any leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They'll keep for about 3-4 days. To reheat, you can pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through, or microwave them if you're in a hurry though the oven will keep them crispier, rather than soggy.

I want to add a bit of a spicy kick to my football food appetizers. Any suggestions?

Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for an extra hit of heat, like a good curry, or even some finely chopped jalapeño peppers for something with a bit more zing. You could also add a dash of cayenne pepper to the smoked paprika aioli for a fiery dipping sauce.

Remember, you can always dial the heat up or down to your personal preference!

Can I use different cheeses or fillings in these football food appetizers? I'm not a huge fan of Manchego.

Absolutely! If Manchego isn't your cup of tea, you can easily substitute it with Monterey Jack or even a sharp cheddar. For filling variations, consider using shredded chicken or ground beef instead of chorizo. Sautéed mushrooms and crumbled feta cheese would also make a delicious vegetarian option!

It's all about adapting the recipe to your taste and what you've got in the fridge.

Are there any nutritional considerations I should be aware of when serving these Mini Chorizo and Manchego Empanadas?

These empanadas are relatively high in fat, due to the pastry and chorizo. To make them healthier, you could use leaner chorizo, reduce the amount of cheese, or use a whole wheat pastry. Also, remember to serve them in moderation as part of a balanced game day spread.

And just so you know, one empanada is approximately 180 calories.