Beef Empanadas Recipe
If you’re hunting for a show-stopping snack, party appetizer, or even a weeknight dinner, let me introduce you to the magic of Beef Empanadas. These golden, flaky pastries are bursting with a savory, spiced beef filling that practically begs to be devoured. Whether you’re enjoying them hot from the oven or sneaking a leftover bite straight from the fridge, Beef Empanadas always deliver big flavor with zero fuss. Trust me, after you try this recipe, you’ll be dreaming up every excuse to make them again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is built on simple, everyday ingredients, but each one plays a vital role in creating mouthwatering Beef Empanadas. From the aromatic vegetables to the rich seasonings, you’ll discover layers of flavor and irresistible texture in every bite.
- Olive Oil: Use this to sauté your veggies and beef, adding a lovely richness to the filling.
- Ground Beef: The star of the show, it brings hearty, meaty goodness to every empanada.
- Onion: Finely chopped for sweetness and depth in the filling.
- Garlic: Minced for a subtle, aromatic kick that makes the filling pop.
- Green Bell Pepper: Chopped for a splash of color and a bit of crunch.
- Ground Cumin: Earthy and warming, cumin infuses the beef with classic empanada flavor.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly sweet punch that elevates the dish.
- Chili Powder: For just the right amount of gentle heat.
- Salt: Essential to balance and brighten all the other flavors.
- Black Pepper: A hint of pepper gives a subtle backbone of spice.
- Tomato Paste: Creates a rich, slightly tangy base for the beef mixture.
- Beef Broth: Keeps everything moist and infuses extra savory flavor.
- Green Olives (optional): Briny, chopped olives add a pop of bold, salty contrast.
- Empanada Dough Discs: Store-bought or homemade, these bake up perfectly crisp and golden.
- Egg (for egg wash): Brushing with beaten egg ensures that irresistible shine and color.
How to Make Beef Empanadas
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, garlic, and green bell pepper. Sauté them for three to four minutes until they’re fragrant and beautifully softened—this builds an incredible flavor base for your Beef Empanadas that will have everyone swooning the moment they walk into your kitchen.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef right into the skillet with your softened vegetables. Break it up gently with a wooden spoon and cook until it’s browned all over. This is when your kitchen will already start to smell amazing. Browning the beef ensures that it stays juicy but develops those fabulous caramelized bits.
Step 3: Season and Simmer
It’s time to introduce the real magic: sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Then, stir in the tomato paste and beef broth. Let everything simmer together for about five minutes, stirring occasionally, until you have a thick, savory filling. If you like a bit of briny flavor, now is the moment to add those chopped green olives.
Step 4: Cool the Filling
Before you start assembling, take the skillet off the heat and let the beef mixture cool slightly. This quick step makes the emapanadas easier to handle and helps keep the dough from getting soggy—it’s the secret to perfectly crisp Beef Empanadas every time.
Step 5: Fill and Shape
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place about two tablespoons of your delicious beef filling in the center of each empanada dough disc. Fold the disc in half to form that classic half-moon shape, then seal the edges by pressing down firmly with the tines of a fork. Not only does this help keep all that goodness inside, but it also gives each Beef Empanada that pretty, rustic edge.
Step 6: Egg Wash and Bake
Brush the tops of your assembled empanadas with beaten egg—for that enticingly shiny, golden finish. Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until every empanada is gorgeously golden brown. Take a moment to admire the mouthwatering aroma—you’ve just made Beef Empanadas perfection.
How to Serve Beef Empanadas
Garnishes
Dress up your Beef Empanadas with a scattering of chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, or serve them with lime wedges for a bright, tangy contrast. For a little extra flair, try a sprinkling of flaky sea salt or a dollop of your favorite salsa or chimichurri sauce on the side.
Side Dishes
These empanadas pair beautifully with all sorts of sides, from simple green salads or tomato-cucumber salad, to rice and beans, corn on the cob, or even a bowl of creamy guacamole for dipping. They’re versatile enough for a party platter or a hearty meal, depending on what you serve alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack your Beef Empanadas on a rustic wooden board and let everybody help themselves, or serve them in a basket lined with a colorful cloth for a festive, casual vibe. For a fun twist, set up a DIY dipping station with an array of sauces—think salsa verde, chipotle mayo, and sour cream—so guests can mix and match their favorites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (and honestly, that’s a big “if”), keep your Beef Empanadas fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to three days and make an awesome snack or quick lunch the next day!
Freezing
Beef Empanadas are perfect for freezing: assemble them up to the baking stage, freeze on a tray until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready, just bake from frozen and add a few extra minutes to the cook time—no need to thaw!
Reheating
To reheat, pop the leftover empanadas in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave will do the trick, but nothing beats the oven for restoring that perfectly flaky crust.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course, Appetizer
Absolutely! Ground chicken, turkey, or even finely chopped mushrooms work well as substitutes. Just be sure to adjust your seasonings to complement whichever filling you choose.
Can I make these Beef Empanadas gluten free?
Yes, you can! Opt for a store-bought gluten-free pastry dough or make your own using gluten-free flour. Just watch the texture, as gluten-free doughs can be a bit more delicate when folding.
What’s the trick to a super flaky empanada crust?
The best way to achieve that craveable flakiness is to keep your dough as cold as possible before baking. If you’re making dough from scratch, chill it thoroughly; even store-bought discs benefit from a quick rest in the fridge before filling.
Do Beef Empanadas need to be baked, or can I fry them?
You have options! While this recipe is designed for baking, frying will create an especially crispy, decadent crust. Heat neutral oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry in batches until golden and crisp—just make sure to drain on paper towels before serving.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out during baking?
Be sure not to overfill your empanadas, and take care to press the edges together firmly with a fork. For extra insurance, you can moisten the edge of the dough with a little water before crimping; this acts like culinary glue and helps hold everything inside.
Final Thoughts
Making Beef Empanadas is like bringing a little bit of celebration right to your kitchen table. Whether you’re sharing with friends, serving up a cozy family meal, or simply treating yourself, this recipe promises robust flavor and that unbeatable homemade touch. Go ahead—give Beef Empanadas a try and get ready to fall in love with every golden, savory bite!
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Beef Empanadas Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 empanadas 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These flavorful beef empanadas are a delicious Latin American treat, perfect for serving as an appetizer or a main course. The savory ground beef filling is seasoned with a blend of spices and encased in a flaky pastry crust, creating a satisfying and portable meal.
Ingredients
Filling:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1/3 cup green olives, chopped (optional)
Assembly:
- 1 package empanada dough discs (or homemade pastry dough)
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and bell pepper until softened.
- Cook Beef: Add ground beef, cook until browned, season with spices, add tomato paste and broth, simmer until thickened.
- Prepare Filling: Stir in olives, let cool slightly.
- Assemble Empanadas: Fill dough with beef mixture, fold over, seal edges, brush with egg wash.
- Bake: Bake empanadas until golden brown.
Notes
- Empanadas can be fried for a crispier texture.
- For added flavor, consider incorporating raisins or hard-boiled egg pieces into the filling.
- Empanadas can be frozen unbaked for future use.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Baking (or Frying alternative)
- Cuisine: Latin American, Spanish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 empanada
- Calories: 265
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 340 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 11 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
