For a delightful twist on a classic comfort food, try these Funeral Potatoes Empanadas. Combining the creamy, cheesy goodness of Funeral Potatoes with the crispy, flaky texture of empanadas, this recipe is perfect for a hearty snack or a unique appetizer. The frozen hash browns and savory filling create a satisfying treat that’s both comforting and versatile. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something indulgent, these empanadas will surely become a favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 package store-bought pie dough
• 4 cups frozen hash browns
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 (10 oz.) cans Campbell’s cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 5 – 6 cups vegetable oil (for frying), preheated to 350°F

Preparation:

1. Prepare the Filling: Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray. In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
2. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Scoop out half of the potatoes into a bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
3. Prepare the Empanada Dough: While the potatoes are cooling, use a biscuit cutter to cut out rounds from the pie dough. Roll out any remaining dough to create additional empanada wraps. Preheat the vegetable oil to 350°F in a large pot or deep fryer.
4. Assemble and Cook the Empanadas: Once the potato mixture has chilled, use a small ice cream scoop to place a dollop of the chilled potato mixture onto each pie dough round. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and use a fork to crimp the edges, sealing the filling inside.
5. Fry or Bake: Carefully drop the empanadas into the preheated oil, frying for 2 to 3 minutes or until they are golden brown. Alternatively, you can bake them in the preheated oven at 350°F for 20 to 22 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Let them cool on a wire rack to maintain their crispy texture.

Bonus Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of your favorite herbs or spices to the potato mixture before baking. Fresh chives, garlic powder, or even a pinch of paprika can elevate the taste and give your empanadas a unique twist.

Conclusion:

These Funeral Potatoes Empanadas are a delicious fusion of creamy, cheesy potatoes wrapped in a crispy, flaky crust. Perfect for serving at gatherings or as a special treat for yourself, this recipe brings together the best of both worlds. Whether fried or baked, these empanadas are sure to be a hit. Enjoy every bite of this comforting and satisfying dish!