Baked Turkey Curry Empanadas Recipe – Turkey Special

Baked Turkey Curry Empanadas are a flavorful fusion of Latin-American pastry and rich, aromatic curry spices. These golden hand pies are filled with spiced ground turkey, onions, peas, and warm curry seasoning—all encased in a flaky crust and baked to perfection. They’re great for appetizers, meal prep, or lunch on the go!

  • Prep Time20 min
  • Cook Time25 min
  • Total Time45 min

For the Filling:

  • 1 tbsp oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • 250g (9 oz) ground turkey
  • 1 tsp curry powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp turmeric
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/3 cup frozen peas
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • Juice of 1/2 lime

For the Empanadas:

  • 1 package empanada wrappers (store-bought or homemade pastry dough)
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Make the Filling:

1

Heat oil in a skillet.

2

Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.

3

Add turkey, breaking it apart, and cook until no longer pink.

4

Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper.

5

Add peas and cook for 2–3 more minutes.

6

Finish with lime juice and cilantro. Let cool.

Assemble Empanadas:

7

Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Roll out pastry circles if needed.

8

Place 1–2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each wrapper.

9

Fold over into a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.

Bake:

10

Place empanadas on a parchment-lined baking tray.

11

Brush with beaten egg.

12

Bake for 18–20 minutes or until golden brown.

Recipe Notes :

Pastry Tip : Use pre-made empanada wrappers, puff pastry, or pie dough for ease. Keep dough chilled for crispiness.

Freezer-Friendly : Freeze unbaked empanadas for later. Bake from frozen at 200°C (400°F) for 25 minutes.

Mild or Spicy : Adjust the curry powder or add chili flakes for a spicier version.

Veggie Variation : Substitute turkey with cooked lentils or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

Dips to Pair : Serve with raita, mango chutney, or mint yogurt sauce for a delicious contrast.