Description
These Cheese-Only Ripe Plantain Empanadas feature a naturally sweet plantain dough stuffed with gooey mozzarella and cheddar cheese, then fried until perfectly golden and crispy. A delicious sweet-and-savory snack that’s perfect for sharing.
Cheese-Only Ripe Plantain Empanadas
If you love the irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors, these Cheese-Only Ripe Plantain Empanadas are guaranteed to become a favorite. Made with a soft dough of ripe plantains and stuffed with plenty of melted cheese, these empanadas are crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and packed with comforting flavor.
The natural sweetness of ripe plantains pairs beautifully with the rich, salty cheese filling, creating a snack that’s both unique and incredibly satisfying. Whether served as an appetizer, party snack, side dish, or afternoon treat, these golden empanadas are always a crowd-pleaser.
Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for an extra layer of flavor.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 8 Empanadas
Nutrition Information
Per Empanada
Calories: 230
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 8g
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and cheesy
- Sweet and savory flavor combination
- Naturally gluten-free
- Easy to prepare
- Great for entertaining
- Perfect snack or appetizer
- Family-friendly recipe
- Delicious with dipping sauces
Ingredients
For the Plantain Dough
- 3 large ripe plantains, peeled and sliced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
For the Cheese Filling
- 1 cup (110g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup (55g) cheddar cheese or queso de freír, shredded
- Pinch of oregano (optional)
For Frying
- Vegetable oil, as needed
Optional Dipping Sauces
- Garlic mayonnaise
- Pink sauce
- Cilantro sauce
- Spicy ketchup
- Avocado dip
Ingredient Notes
Ripe Plantains
The darker and sweeter the plantains, the better the flavor and texture of the dough.
Mozzarella Cheese
Provides the perfect stretchy, melty cheese pull.
Cheddar or Queso de Freír
Adds richness and a slightly salty contrast to the sweet plantains.
Oregano
Optional but adds a subtle savory note to the filling.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Plantains
Place the sliced ripe plantains into a pot of water.
Boil for 12–15 minutes or until very soft.
Drain thoroughly.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Mash the cooked plantains until completely smooth.
Add salt and butter if using.
Allow the mixture to cool enough to handle.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Filling
In a bowl combine:
- Mozzarella cheese
- Cheddar cheese or queso de freír
- Oregano (optional)
Mix well.
Step 4: Shape the Empanadas
Take a portion of plantain dough and flatten it into a circle in your hand.
Place a generous amount of cheese filling in the center.
Fold over to create a half-moon shape.
Seal the edges firmly to prevent cheese from leaking during frying.
Repeat with remaining dough and filling.
Step 5: Fry Until Golden
Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat.
Carefully fry the empanadas in batches.
Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until deeply golden and crispy.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 6: Serve
Serve warm while the cheese is still gooey and melted.
Pair with your favorite dipping sauce.
Expert Tips
- Use very ripe plantains for the sweetest flavor.
- Allow the dough to cool slightly before shaping.
- Seal edges carefully to keep the cheese inside.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying.
- Serve immediately for the best cheese pull.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer
Freeze uncooked empanadas for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat in an oven or air fryer until crispy and warmed through.
Variations
Triple Cheese Version
Add Monterey Jack or mozzarella blend.
Spicy Cheese Empanadas
Mix chopped jalapeños into the filling.
Herb Cheese Version
Add fresh cilantro or parsley.
Air Fryer Method
Cook at 190°C (375°F) for 10–12 minutes until golden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes. Bake at 200°C (400°F) until golden and crisp.
What if my dough is too soft?
Allow it to cool further or chill briefly before shaping.
Can I use only mozzarella?
Absolutely. Mozzarella alone creates a wonderfully stretchy filling.
Are these sweet or savory?
They’re both! The sweet plantain dough perfectly balances the salty cheese filling.
Final Thoughts
These Cheese-Only Ripe Plantain Empanadas are the perfect combination of sweet, salty, crispy, and cheesy. With a golden plantain crust and a gooey melted cheese center, they’re an irresistible snack that’s easy to make and impossible to stop eating. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces and watch them disappear.
