How To Reheat Empanadas

2 min read 01-01-2025

Empanadas, those savory hand pies filled with deliciousness, are best enjoyed fresh from the oven. But let's be honest, sometimes you end up with leftovers. The good news? Reheating empanadas doesn't have to be a culinary disaster. With a few simple techniques, you can enjoy those leftover empanadas almost as good as the first time around.

Methods for Reheating Empanadas

The key to successfully reheating an empanada is to avoid drying it out. Here are a few methods, ranked from best to acceptable:

1. The Oven Method: Achieving Crispy Perfection

This method yields the crispiest results, most closely resembling the texture of a freshly baked empanada.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even heating.
Place the empanadas on a baking sheet. Don't overcrowd the sheet; allow space for air circulation.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

2. The Air Fryer Method: Quick and Crispy

If you have an air fryer, this is a fantastic option for achieving a crispy crust in a short amount of time.

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Place the empanadas in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren't overcrowded.
Air fry for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Check frequently to prevent burning.

3. The Microwave Method: Quick but Less Crispy

This is the quickest method but often results in a softer, less crispy crust.

Place the empanada on a microwave-safe plate.
Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. The cooking time will depend on the size and type of empanada and your microwave's power. It's best to start with shorter intervals and add more time as needed.

4. The Skillet Method: A Happy Medium

This method offers a decent compromise between speed and crispiness.

Heat a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat.
Place the empanada in the skillet, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until heated through and lightly browned.

Tips for Reheating Empanadas

Don't over-reheat: Overheating will dry out the empanada and make the crust tough.
Wrap in a damp paper towel (for microwave): This helps retain moisture and prevents drying.
Check frequently: Empanadas reheat quickly, so it's important to monitor them closely to avoid burning.

By following these methods, you can enjoy perfectly reheated empanadas—a delicious and satisfying treat. Enjoy!