Two-Cheese Pizza Empanadas
This is a sponsored recipe by Real California Milk: All opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that make this website possible.
Two Cheese Pizza Empanadas: An easy, cheesy lunchbox win for kids and adults alike!
Back to school season is officially here, and if your mornings are anything like ours, that means busy routines, early alarms, and figuring out how to pack lunches that are both easy and exciting. Enter these Two-Cheese Pizza Empanadas, the ultimate solution for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or even a quick weeknight dinner. They’re filled with gooey Real California Mozzarella and Cheddar, customizable with your favorite pizza toppings, and baked to golden, flaky perfection.
Made with Real California Milk dairy products, these empanadas aren’t just delicious, they’re also made with locally sourced, sustainably produced milk from family-owned California dairies. That means you’re serving quality and care in every bite. Whether you’re packing lunches for kids, prepping your own work lunch, or need a comforting snack between activities, this recipe is here to make your school-year mealtimes smoother (and tastier).
Related Recipe: Uvas y Queso Snack
Back to School Lunch Hacks and Tips
When it comes to packing school lunches, variety, simplicity, and portability are key. Here are a few tips to streamline your routine and keep things fun:
- Make it ahead: Bake a batch of these empanadas the night before and store in the fridge. In the morning, just warm them up, wrap in foil or pop into an insulated lunch container.
- Use reusable containers: Bento boxes are a great way to keep everything organized and reduce waste.
- Include familiar favorites: Cheesy, pizza-inspired flavors are a favorite with nearly every age group. These empanadas feel like a treat while being nutritious and filling.
- Don’t forget dipping sauce: A small container of pizza or marinara sauce on the side makes these empanadas even more fun to eat.
- Double the batch for dinner: These make a great meal alongside a simple salad or steamed veggies. You can even freeze extras for those extra hectic days.
About the Real California Dairy Products
These empanadas are made with two flavorful cheeses that melt beautifully:
- Real California Shredded Mozzarella: Creamy, mild, and stretchy—the classic pizza cheese!
- Real California Shredded Cheddar: Sharp and tangy, cheddar adds depth of flavor and a bit of a golden crust when sprinkled on top.
By choosing Real California Milk products, you’re supporting California dairy families and enjoying products made with care. Always look for the Real California Milk seal when shopping!
Ingredient Variations
This recipe is easy to adapt based on your preferences or what’s already in your fridge:
- Veggie lovers: Add chopped spinach, olives, or bell peppers along with the cheese.
- Protein boost: Swap in cooked sausage, ham, or diced chicken breast for the mini pepperoni.
- Sauce swap: Use pesto or Alfredo sauce in place of traditional pizza sauce for a twist.
- Gluten-free: Look for gluten-free empanada dough or use a gluten-free flatbread and fold like a wrap.
- Spicy kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the filling.
Storage Suggestions
- Refrigerate: Store baked empanadas in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or microwave before serving.
- Freeze: Freeze baked and cooled empanadas in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen at 375°F for 10–15 minutes, or until heated through.
- Pack cold: These are just as tasty served at room temperature. Perfect for lunchboxes without a microwave.
FAQs
Yes! As long as they’re Real California Milk products, feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack, Oaxaca, or a Mexican blend. The goal is meltiness and flavor.
Use the Real California Milk Product Locator to find your favorite cheeses, yogurts, milks, and more near you. Look for the seal on the packaging when shopping!
Yes! Cook empanadas in a preheated air fryer at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Be sure to brush with egg wash to help them brown evenly.
These Two-Cheese Pizza Empanadas check all the boxes: cheesy, kid-approved, easy to prep, and packed with ingredients you can feel good about, like Real California Milk cheeses. They’re proof that back-to-school meals don’t have to be boring or stressful.
Don’t forget to look for the Real California Milk seal next time you shop, and explore the Product Locator to find Real California dairy products near you!
Print
Two-Cheese Pizza Empanadas
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: makes 4
Description
Back to School means it’s time for meals that are quick, comforting, and easy to pack, like these Two-Cheese Pizza Empanadas made with Real California Mozzarella and Cheddar.
Ingredients
- 4 frozen empanada discs, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten
- ¼ cup pizza sauce, plus more for dipping
- ¼ cup Real California Shredded Mozzarella
- 1 large mushroom, sliced
- 1 tablespoon mini pepperoni
- 2 tablespoons Real California Shredded Cheddar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place empanada discs on prepared baking sheet and brush the edges with beaten egg.
- Spread 1 tablespoon pizza sauce on each empanada disc. Top with a tablespoon mozzarella.
- Place 2-3 mushroom slices on two empanada discs. Divide mini pepperoni between the other empanada discs.
- Top each empanada disc with ½ tablespoon cheddar. Fold dough over filling and crimp with a fork to seal. Brush tops of empanadas evenly with egg then sprinkle remaining cheddar on top.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Serve.
