Name: Beef Empanadas
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-484634H51M9S
Total time: PT-484634H51M9S
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients: – 1 lb ground beef; – 1 onion, finely chopped; – 2 cloves garlic, minced; – 1/2 cup green olives, chopped; – 1/4 cup raisins (optional); – 1 tsp ground cumin; – 1 tsp paprika; – 1/2 tsp chili powder; – Salt and pepper, to taste; – 1/4 cup beef broth; – 1 package empanada dough discs (or homemade dough); – 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); – 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)

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If you’ve ever dreamed of crispy, golden pastries filled with flavorful, savory beef, then Beef Empanadas are your new best friend. These handheld treats are packed with a delicious, seasoned beef mixture, and the moment you bite into one, you’ll experience the perfect combination of crunch and juicy filling. Trust me, these little pockets of joy will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love Beef Empanadas

Let’s talk about why Beef Empanadas are going to become your new favorite dish:

Versatile: Whether it’s for a casual dinner, party appetizer, or snack, these empanadas fit any occasion. You can even freeze them for later!

Budget-Friendly: Using simple ingredients, this recipe is not only affordable but delivers big on flavor.

Quick and Easy: You’ll have a batch of these golden, crispy delights ready in no time—no complicated steps, just pure goodness.

Customizable: While the beef filling is a classic, you can make them your own by adding in some veggies or switching to a different protein like chicken or even tofu.

Crowd-Pleasing: Empanadas are always a hit with guests, and they’re perfect for serving at gatherings, game nights, or even for a weeknight dinner. Kids and adults alike will devour them!

Ingredients in Beef Empanadas

These little pockets of flavor start with a simple list of ingredients. Here’s what you need for the filling and dough:

Ground Beef: The star of the show. It becomes rich and flavorful as it cooks with spices and veggies.

Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the filling, making it taste like it’s been simmering for hours.

Garlic: A key flavor component that brings everything together and gives the filling that irresistible aroma.

Bell Peppers: They add a touch of sweetness and color to the filling, making each bite more satisfying.

Olives: They give the empanadas a tangy, briny kick that perfectly balances the richness of the beef.

Spices: A blend of cumin, paprika, and chili powder creates the deep, warm flavors you crave in every bite.

Empanada Dough: You can use store-bought dough or make your own. Either way, you’ll get that perfect crispy outer shell.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking and turn those ingredients into something delicious:

Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Break it up as it cooks, then drain any excess fat. Add chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the pan and cook until the vegetables soften.

Season the Filling: Stir in the spices—cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add the olives and a splash of water, letting the mixture simmer for a few minutes until everything is well combined and the flavors have melded together. Set it aside to cool.

Prepare the Dough: Roll out the empanada dough on a floured surface. Use a round cutter or the top of a glass to cut out circles of dough. Each circle should be large enough to hold a generous spoonful of filling.

Assemble the Empanadas: Place a spoonful of the cooled beef mixture in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together, then crimp with a fork to seal them tightly.

Cook the Empanadas: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the empanadas in batches for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. If you prefer baking, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the empanadas for 20-25 minutes, until golden and crispy.

Finishing Touches: Remove the empanadas from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess grease. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve the empanadas warm with your favorite dipping sauce like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts:

Servings: 6-8
Calories per serving: 250-300

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve Beef Empanadas

These empanadas are perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are some ideas for serving them:

Serve with a side of tangy salsa and a dollop of sour cream.
Pair them with a refreshing green salad to balance out the richness.
Add a side of rice or beans for a full meal that’ll keep you satisfied.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

If you want extra flavor, you can add a little cheese to the filling. A sharp cheddar or mozzarella works wonderfully.
Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative to beef.
For extra crispy empanadas, you can brush the tops with an egg wash before baking or frying.

FAQ’s

Can I make these empanadas ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble them and store them in the fridge for a few hours or freeze them for up to a month before cooking.
Can I bake these empanadas instead of frying them?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Ground chicken, turkey, or even pork works well in this recipe.
Can I make the dough myself?
Of course! You can make your own empanada dough from scratch, but store-bought dough is just as delicious and saves time.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover empanadas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven to keep the crust crispy.
Can I freeze cooked empanadas?
Yes! Once cooked and cooled, freeze the empanadas in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. Reheat them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy them.
How do I reheat leftover empanadas?
Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they’re hot and crispy.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! You can add sautéed spinach, corn, or peas for extra texture and flavor.
Can I make these empanadas without any meat?
Yes, you can make vegetarian empanadas by using beans, cheese, or even mashed potatoes as a filling.
How do I make these empanadas spicier?
Add diced jalapenos or chili flakes to the beef filling for an extra kick.

Conclusion

Beef Empanadas are a flavor-packed, crispy, golden treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them for a casual dinner or a special gathering, these little pockets of deliciousness are sure to steal the show. Perfectly spiced and endlessly satisfying, these empanadas are a must-try recipe. Enjoy every crispy, savory bite!