Top Empanada Mama Fillings You Need to Try

When it comes to comfort food that is portable, flavorful, and packed with a delightful mix of textures, empanadas are hard to beat. Whether you're a longtime fan of these delicious turnovers or just discovering their charm, the variety of fillings is truly a delight. From savory meats to delectable vegetarian options, empanadas are versatile and offer something for everyone. 

Whether you're dining in or grabbing a quick snack on the go, here are the top empanada fillings you need to try.

1. Beef Picadillo

A staple filling in Latin American cuisine, Beef Picadillo is a classic that combines ground beef, onions, peppers, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. Often enhanced with olives, raisins, or hard-boiled eggs, this savory and slightly sweet filling offers a complex, mouthwatering flavor that’s hard to resist. Perfect for meat lovers, the beef picadillo empanada is a must-try.

2. Shredded Chicken

Baked empanadas served with cherry tomatoes and arugula.

Shredded chicken empanadas are a crowd favorite, and for good reason. Tender, seasoned chicken simmered with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and spices creates a hearty taste.  It’s a go-to choice for those who want something light yet satisfying. Add a little hot sauce or a squeeze of lime, and you’ll elevate this empanada to another level.

3. Cheese and Spinach

Vegetarian options are just as exciting when it comes to empanadas. The combination of gooey melted cheese with fresh spinach is a testament to how simple ingredients can shine through in these Columbian delicacies. This filling is creamy, savory, and satisfying, making it a perfect choice for non-meat eaters or anyone craving something cheesy and wholesome.

4. Ham and Cheese

Who can resist the timeless pairing of ham and cheese? This filling offers the perfect balance of savory ham and melted cheese encased in a crispy empanada shell. It’s a popular choice for breakfast, lunch, or a snack on the go. Think of it as the empanada version of a classic ham and cheese sandwich, but better! 

Many NYC empanada hotspots offer ham and cheese, and Empanada Mama does not disappoint in delivering that perfect golden crust with a cheesy, ham-packed interior – we call it the Cuban.

5. Sweet Plantains and Cheese

For a sweet and savory twist, sweet plantains and cheese empanadas are a true standout. The natural sweetness of ripe plantains pairs beautifully with creamy, salty cheese, creating a filling that’s unique and indulgent. This combination is particularly popular in Caribbean and Latin American cuisines and is often enjoyed as a light meal or dessert.

If you’re craving a unique flavor experience, this filling is an absolute must. Sweet plantains are a celebration of tropical flavors, and the cheesy richness makes each bite irresistible.

6. Tuna with Vegetables

Assorted empanadas showcasing Empanada Mama filling.

eafood lovers, rejoice! Tuna empanadas are a delicious, protein-packed option that features flaky tuna mixed with onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers. This light and flavorful filling is perfect for those looking for something different yet satisfying. Often seasoned with Latin spices, the tuna filling delivers a refreshing taste of the sea.

Next time you are hungry for empanadas, don’t shy away from trying seafood options. They’re a pleasant surprise and a delicious way to enjoy empanadas with a salty twist.

7. Guava and Cheese

Guava and cheese filling makes a beloved dessert empanada. The sweet, fruity flavor of guava paste combined with creamy cheese creates the ultimate sweet-savory bite. Popular in many Latin American countries, this combination is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

If you are looking for authentic Latin flavors in NYC, guava and cheese empanadas at Empanada Mama is the perfect way to end your meal on a sweet note.

8. Spicy Chorizo

For those who love a little heat, spicy chorizo empanadas are a must. Packed with bold flavors, this filling combines seasoned chorizo sausage with onions, peppers, and sometimes potatoes. The spiciness of the chorizo adds a kick that will leave you craving more. These empanadas pair perfectly with a cool dipping sauce or a refreshing drink.

9. BBQ Pulled Pork

Empanada filled with shredded beef and vegetables, featuring Empanada Mama filling.

Pulled pork lovers will appreciate this modern twist on traditional empanadas. BBQ pulled pork empanadas feature slow-cooked pork drenched in tangy, smoky barbecue sauce. The filling is tender, flavorful, and packed with that Southern-inspired taste that pairs so well with the crispy, flaky crust of the empanada.

10. Nutella and Banana

For dessert lovers, Nutella and banana empanadas are a dream come true. This creamy hazelnut chocolate spread combined with fresh banana slices creates a rich and decadent filling that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re enjoying it as a sweet snack or an after-dinner treat, this empanada is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Must-Try Empanadas at Empanada Mama

Empanada Mama, a NYC restaurant known for its flavorful empanadas.

If you’re on the hunt for the best empanadas in New York City, Empanada Mama is your ultimate destination. We are known for offering a wide variety of empanadas and me specialize in crafting authentic Latin flavors in NYC that cater to every craving. Whether you prefer classic options like beef picadillo or adventurous flavors like Nutella and banana, there’s an empanada for everyone.

From traditional to creative fillings, Empanada Mama is the perfect place to indulge in the best empanadas in NYC. Next time you find yourself searching for the best empanadas near you while in NYC, drop by your nearest Empanada Mama and experience first-hand the Latin goodness we promise you.