Irresistible Shrimp Red Pepper Cream Cheese Empanadas: Your New Favorite Weeknight Delight

Are you searching for a dish that effortlessly combines gourmet flavors with weeknight convenience? Look no further than these incredible Shrimp Red Pepper Cream Cheese Empanadas. Imagine succulent shrimp, sweet roasted red bell peppers, and a rich, creamy blend of cheeses, all nestled inside a golden, flaky pastry crust. This recipe isn't just a meal; it's an experience – a delightful journey of savory indulgence that's surprisingly simple to create, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner.

The inspiration for this recipe sparked after a previous culinary adventure where I crafted Beef and Cheese Empanadas for a bridal shower. That initial experiment with empanadas was a resounding success, met with rave reviews and empty platters. However, a quiet craving lingered in my mind: a desire for an even creamier, cheesier, and perhaps a lighter, more vibrant filling. This quest led me back to the kitchen, eager to experiment. This time, shrimp took center stage, perfectly complemented by the inherent sweetness of red bell peppers and the luxurious texture of reduced-fat cream cheese. The result? A creation that exceeded all expectations and quickly became a new household favorite for its unique flavor profile and ease of preparation.

What makes these shrimp and cream cheese empanadas truly exceptional is their remarkable ease of preparation. Life often dictates that weeknight meals need to be quick and straightforward, and this recipe delivers precisely that. With leftover empanada wrappers on hand from a weekend baking session, I was able to whip up a batch of these delectable pastries after a long day at work – a rarity for me, as weeknight cooking often feels like a monumental task. This recipe is designed for minimal fuss, proving that you don't need to sacrifice flavor or quality for speed. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can transform into something extraordinary with just a little creativity and a smart approach to meal planning.

The Perfect Harmony of Flavors: Shrimp, Red Pepper, and Cream Cheese

Freshly squeezed lemon is a non-negotiable for most shrimp dishes, and these empanadas are no exception. It adds a crucial touch of brightness, enhancing the natural sweetness of the shrimp and expertly balancing the richness of the cheese blend. This simple addition elevates the entire flavor profile, making each bite incredibly refreshing.


The combination of plump, succulent shrimp and vibrant red bell peppers is a culinary match made in heaven. Red peppers offer a wonderful, subtle sweetness and a delicate crunch that beautifully complements the tender texture of the shrimp. When expertly seasoned and then combined with the tangy, rich cream cheese and the subtle, warm notes of Pepperjack, it creates a dynamic flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting. Each bite of these savory empanadas delivers a symphony of tastes and textures: from the juicy, perfectly cooked shrimp and the soft, slightly crisp peppers, to the gooey melted cheese that binds everything together. It’s a filling that’s sure to impress even the most discerning palates, making these empanadas a standout dish.

These savory pastries are not just about the incredible taste; they’re also about the delightful texture. The contrast between the crispy, golden crust and the soft, creamy filling is what makes them so addictive. The vibrant colors of the shrimp and red pepper peeking through the golden pastry also make them incredibly appetizing, suitable for any table setting. The effortless combination of fresh seafood with rich, cheesy goodness ensures that every single empanada is a delightful little package of flavor waiting to be discovered.

Achieving the Perfect Flaky Empanada Crust with Ease

One of the many delights of these shrimp and red pepper empanadas is their perfectly buttery, flaky crust. While crafting your own pastry from scratch is always a rewarding option for the ambitious baker, for a quick weeknight meal or when time is of the essence, convenience is absolutely key. This recipe embraces the ease and efficiency of using high-quality, store-bought empanada wrappers. The Goya brand, in particular, has proven to be an excellent choice time and again, consistently yielding tender, flavorful results and a wonderfully pliable texture that makes the assembly process a breeze.

To ensure these delicate wrappers are pliable and easy to work with – especially during the crucial sealing stage – a simple yet effective trick makes all the difference: lightly dab a cooking brush in water and run it along the edges of each wrapper before you fold them. This gentle application of moisture helps to soften the dough, making it significantly more pliable. This crucial step allows for a strong, secure seal, which is vital in preventing the delicious and creamy filling from escaping during the baking process. A well-sealed empanada means all that flavorful goodness stays right where it belongs! Once the empanadas are filled and securely sealed, a final brush of melted butter over the tops prior to baking ensures they emerge from the oven with a glorious, appetizing golden-brown hue and an even richer, more enticing buttery flavor. This step is not just for appearance; it significantly contributes to achieving that irresistible flaky crust that everyone loves and expects from a truly fantastic empanada.

Discovering the Irresistible Creamy Shrimp and Cheese Filling

Let's delve into the heart of these extraordinary empanadas: the incredibly creamy and flavorful filling. My love affair with cream cheese runs deep, and for good reason! It's an exceptionally versatile ingredient that consistently delivers the desired richness, smooth texture, and a touch of tanginess in countless recipes, ranging from savory dips to robust stuffed chicken and fish dishes. In these shrimp empanadas, reduced-fat cream cheese plays a pivotal role. It provides that luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth texture without overpowering the delicate flavors of the shrimp and peppers. This strategic choice allows the other star ingredients to shine brightly while still benefiting from the decadent creaminess that makes each bite so satisfying.

The true magic truly happens when this foundational cream cheese combines with other flavorful companions, such as the subtly spicy Pepperjack and the universally beloved classic Mozzarella. The Pepperjack cheese is a fantastic addition, as it introduces a gentle, yet distinct, kick of heat, expertly elevating the overall savory profile of the filling. Meanwhile, the Mozzarella cheese contributes that wonderfully gooey, stretchy consistency that everyone adores in a cheesy dish, adding a delightful textural dimension. Together, these cheeses create a harmonious and perfectly balanced blend that generously coats the perfectly seasoned shrimp and tender, sweet red peppers. This ensures that every single bite is packed with an explosion of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness, making these empanadas an utterly irresistible treat. The outcome of this particular recipe, marrying these carefully selected ingredients, was absolutely delightful and proved to be a resounding success!

Why These Empanadas Will Become Your New Favorite Savory Treat

There are countless reasons to fall head over heels in love with these Shrimp Red Pepper Cream Cheese Empanadas. As a devoted savory food lover, I can personally attest that these pastries hit all the right notes, satisfying a deep craving for rich, complex flavors. While I am quite particular about my desserts, often preferring only a select few (especially those featuring cream cheese!), these savory empanadas are in a league of their own. They offer a satisfying richness and depth of flavor that makes them utterly perfect for any occasion, proving that savory indulgence can be just as exciting as a sweet treat.

Whether you're hosting a casual gathering with friends, searching for an impressive yet easy appetizer to wow your guests, or simply wanting a delicious and quick weeknight dinner solution that feels special, these empanadas fit the bill perfectly. Their convenient individual portion size makes them incredibly easy to serve and enjoy, while their balanced flavor profile ensures they appeal to a wide range of tastes, from seafood aficionados to cheese lovers. The beautiful golden, flaky crust combined with the vibrant, creamy, and succulent filling makes for a visually appealing dish that's as pleasurable to look at as it is to eat. And for those who, like me, deeply appreciate the creamy indulgence of cream cheese in unexpected and delightful savory ways, these empanadas truly open up a world of culinary possibilities. Who knows, perhaps dessert pastry empanadas, building on this creamy foundation, are next on the culinary horizon? Stay tuned for more delicious and inventive experiments!

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Shrimp Red Pepper Cream Cheese Empanadas

By Brandi Crawford

Indulge in these Shrimp Red Pepper Cream Cheese Empanadas, featuring succulent shrimp, gooey Pepperjack and Mozzarella cheese, all enveloped in a savory, flaky, buttery crust. A perfect appetizer or light meal that’s quick to prepare.

Prep Time: 20 mins

Cook Time: 20 mins

Total Time: 40 mins

Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Main Course

Servings: 8

Calories: 196 kcal

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Ingredients

• 8 Goya Empanada wrappers (thawed if frozen)
• ½ pound shrimp, fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined
• ½ red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, freshly minced
• 2 oz reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (for brushing crust)
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Pepperjack cheese, shredded (adds a nice subtle kick)
• McCormick's Grill Mates Montreal Chicken Seasoning (or your preferred shrimp seasoning blend, like Old Bay)
• ½ fresh lemon, juice of
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to a steady 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius). While the oven heats, prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper; this prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat on your stovetop. Once hot, add the minced garlic and finely chopped red peppers. Sauté for approximately 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the peppers begin to soften slightly and the garlic releases its fragrant aroma. Be vigilant to avoid burning the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
3. Cook Shrimp: Now, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Season the shrimp generously with McCormick's Grill Mates Montreal Chicken Seasoning (or your chosen blend), along with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference. Cook for only a few minutes, stirring continuously, until the shrimp turn opaque and develop a beautiful bright pink color. It's crucial not to overcook the shrimp, as it can quickly become tough and rubbery.
4. Create Creamy Filling: Reduce the heat under the skillet to low. Drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the cooked shrimp and peppers. Then, add the softened reduced-fat cream cheese, along with half of both the shredded Pepperjack and Mozzarella cheeses. Stir the mixture continuously until all the cheese has completely melted and a smooth, creamy sauce forms, thoroughly coating the shrimp and vegetables. Remove the skillet from the heat immediately.
5. Prepare Empanada Wrappers: Lay the Goya empanada wrappers flat on a clean, dry work surface. Take a small cooking brush and dip it lightly into a bowl of water. Gently glaze the outer edges of each empanada wrapper with the wet brush. This moisture is essential for softening the dough, making it more pliable and ensuring a tight, secure seal when the empanadas are folded.
6. Fill Empanadas: Carefully spoon a generous amount (about 1-2 tablespoons) of the creamy shrimp and cheese mixture into the center of each empanada wrapper. Be mindful not to overfill, as this can make the sealing process difficult and may cause the delicious filling to leak out during baking.
7. Seal Empanadas: Sprinkle the remaining half of the shredded Pepperjack and Mozzarella cheeses over the shrimp mixture in each wrapper. Gently fold each empanada wrapper in half, creating a classic crescent shape. Firmly pinch the edges of the crust together to create a secure seal. For a decorative and even more robust seal, you can either use the tines of a fork to crimp the edges, or employ the traditional "repulgue" method by rolling and twisting the crust inward until fully enclosed.
8. Bake Empanadas: Arrange the sealed empanadas in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet, ensuring there is a little space between each pastry for even cooking. Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the crusts turn a beautiful golden brown and appear wonderfully flaky. Monitor them closely towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning.
9. Butter Finish: While the empanadas are still warm in the oven, melt the tablespoon of butter in the microwave for about 20 seconds. Once the empanadas are removed from the oven, immediately use a clean cooking brush to generously spread the melted butter over the top of each hot empanada. This step not only adds an extra layer of rich, buttery flavor but also contributes to a beautiful, appetizing sheen.
10. Cool and Serve: Allow the baked empanadas to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before carefully transferring them to a serving platter. Cooling slightly helps the creamy filling set properly and prevents burns from the hot, melted cheese. Serve warm and savor every delightful bite of these savory shrimp empanadas!

Expert Tips for Perfect Empanadas Every Time:

• Avoid Overfilling: This is arguably the most common mistake. Using just enough filling to comfortably seal the edges is paramount. Too much filling can lead to burst empanadas and a messy baking sheet.
• Cool the Filling: If your shrimp and cheese mixture is very hot, it can make the empanada wrappers overly soft and difficult to handle. Allowing the filling to cool slightly to room temperature before assembly will make the process much smoother.
• Master the Seal: Beyond simply crimping with a fork, practice the traditional "repulgue" (a decorative twist-and-fold edge) for an authentic look and an extra-secure seal. There are many online tutorials if you'd like to try this traditional method!
• Freezing for Later: These empanadas are excellent for meal prep! You can assemble them and freeze them before baking. Arrange the unbaked empanadas in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, simply place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet straight from the freezer, adding about 5-10 minutes to the regular baking time.
• Flavor Variations: Don't hesitate to personalize your empanadas! Experiment with different cheese varieties, such as provolone, white cheddar, or even a blend of Monterey Jack. For an added layer of flavor or heat, consider incorporating finely diced onions, green chilies, or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the filling. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley in the mixture would also provide a lovely herbal note.

Nutrition Data

Calories: 196 kcal

Fat: 7G

Net Carbs: 24G

Protein: 13G

Please note that the macros provided are courtesy estimates and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is typically calculated using widely available online nutrition databases, which may vary depending on specific brands and ingredients used. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information for your particular recipe, we highly recommend calculating it with the actual ingredients and brands you personally use, via your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information you rely upon is accurate, complete, and useful for your individual dietary needs and health goals.

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