There’s a certain joy that comes from preparing a meal that feels both comforting and a bit adventurous. The other day, I found myself hunting through my kitchen, searching for inspiration, when the thought of making Beef Empanadas suddenly sparked excitement. Picture this: golden, flaky pastry cradling a savory filling of seasoned ground beef, onions, and spices, with just a hint of sweetness from optional raisins. It took me right back to the cozy family gatherings of my childhood, where everyone gathered around the table, devouring these delightful bites.
These empanadas are not just a staple; they represent a canvas for creativity. Whether you fill them with olives, spices, or your favorite veggies, they’re perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a warm, homemade treat after a busy day. And the best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make—perfect for those evenings when you want to elevate your dining experience without complicated steps. So roll up your sleeves and let’s turn your kitchen into a haven for flavor with these delightful Beef Empanadas!
Why You'll Love This Beef Empanadas
- These Beef Empanadas are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal even on your busiest days.
- The flavor combination of savory beef, spices, and optional sweetness from raisins creates a delightful taste explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Their versatility means you can customize your filling with your favorite ingredients, making them perfect for any palate or occasion.
- The visual appeal of golden, flaky pastry will impress your guests and make your table look stunning.
Beef Empanadas Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create the perfect Beef Empanadas.
For the Dough
• 3 cups all-purpose flour – The foundation for a flaky, golden crust.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor of your dough.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed) – Keeping it cold helps achieve a tender texture.
• 1 large egg – Adds richness and helps bind the dough.
• 1/4 cup cold water – Adjust as needed to bring the dough together.
• 1 tablespoon vinegar (optional) – A secret ingredient for extra tenderness.
For the Filling
• 1 lb ground beef – The star ingredient that brings hearty flavor.
• 1 small onion (finely chopped) – Sweetens and enriches the filling.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced) – Adds aromatic depth to the flavor profile.
• 1/2 bell pepper (finely chopped) – Introduces a pop of color and sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin – Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Provides a hint of smokiness to the filling.
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder – Adjust for your preferred spice level.
• Salt and pepper – Season to taste for a perfectly balanced filling.
• 1/4 cup olives (chopped, optional) – Adds a briny bite that complements the beef.
• 1/4 cup raisins (optional) – A touch of sweetness that enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash) – Gives your empanadas a beautiful golden finish.
How to Make Beef Empanadas
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Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir gently to ensure the salt is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
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Add the Butter: Toss in 1/2 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, similar to pebbly sand.
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Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 large egg, 1/4 cup of cold water, and 1 tablespoon of vinegar, if desired. This will help create a tender dough.
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Incorporate the Wet Mixture: Gradually add your egg mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until a cohesive dough forms. You want it to hold together but not be sticky, so add more water if necessary.
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Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the gluten relax and makes rolling easier.
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Cook the Beef Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of ground beef until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add the Vegetables: Toss in 1 finely chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1/2 finely chopped bell pepper. Sauté until the veggies are soft, around 5 minutes, and the kitchen is filled with a wonderful aroma.
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Season the Filling: Stir in 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder, along with salt and pepper to taste. If using, fold in 1/4 cup of chopped olives and 1/4 cup of raisins. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes and then remove from heat to cool.
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Preheat the Oven: If you’re planning to bake the empanadas, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) now so it’s ready when they’re assembled.
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Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a 4–5 inch round cutter to cut out circles.
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Fill the Empanadas: Place a tablespoon of your beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges firmly to seal. Crimp with a fork for a decorative touch.
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Prepare for Baking: Arrange the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with a beaten egg to achieve that stunning golden finish.
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Bake or Fry: To bake, place them in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes until golden brown. To fry, heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat and fry the empanadas in batches for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels afterward.
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Serve the Empanadas: Enjoy your warm Beef Empanadas with your favorite dipping sauce or salsa for an extra yummy experience!
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a fresh twist.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Beef Empanadas?
There’s something magical about creating a meal that feels both comforting and exciting, especially when paired perfectly with Beef Empanadas!
- Fresh Salad: A vibrant mixed green salad with tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing crunch, balancing the savory filling beautifully.
- Spicy Salsa: A zesty salsa, whether tomato-based or mango, brings a delightful heat that complements the juicy empanadas, elevating every bite.
- Creamy Avocado Dip: Smooth and rich, a homemade avocado dip provides a savory contrast to the crispy empanadas, perfect for dipping.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, like peppers and zucchini, can introduce a sweet, earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the spiced beef.
- Rice or Quinoa: Light, fluffy rice or nutty quinoa serve as a delightful base, soaking up flavors and making for a heartier meal.
- Churros for Dessert: Consider ending your meal on a sweet note with warm churros dusted in cinnamon sugar for a delightful contrast to the savory empanadas.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of Malbec or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc works beautifully to enhance the meal’s flavors, providing a refreshing sip throughout.
Beef Empanadas Variations
There’s something truly comforting about tweaking a beloved recipe to suit your taste buds. Let your culinary creativity shine!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a crumbly, delightful crust everyone can enjoy.
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Vegetarian: Swap ground beef for lentils or black beans, and add extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for a hearty filling.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce with your filling to turn up the heat and excitement.
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Herby Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs, like cilantro or parsley, into the filling for an aromatic flavor boost that brightens every bite.
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Cheesy Delight: Add shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack to the filling for an ooey-gooey surprise with each empanada.
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Sweet Surprise: Try adding chopped apples or a bit of cinnamon to the filling for a savory-sweet version that tantalizes the taste buds.
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Savory Veggie Medley: Toss in a frozen vegetable mix or your favorite seasonal veggies to the filling for added color and crunch.
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Baked vs. Fried: Experiment with both methods! Baking gives a crisp finish, while frying offers that indulgent, golden crunch you can’t resist.
How to Store and Freeze Beef Empanadas
Room Temperature: Store cooled empanadas at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days, ensuring they remain fresh and tasty.
Fridge: Keep leftover Beef Empanadas in the fridge for up to 3 days, wrapped individually in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze empanadas in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can last up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat frozen empanadas directly from the freezer in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Make Ahead Options
These Beef Empanadas are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade treat even on your busiest days! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating it. Additionally, the beef filling can be made up to 3 days ahead of time; simply cool it completely before placing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just roll out the chilled dough, fill it with the prepped filling, and follow the baking or frying steps. This way, you’ll have fresh, piping-hot empanadas with minimal effort, ensuring they remain just as flavorful and delightful as when first made!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Beef Empanadas, ensure your butter is cold to achieve a flaky pastry; this is crucial for the perfect texture.
- Avoid overworking the dough, as this can lead to tough empanada crusts; mix just until combined.
- When preparing the filling, allowing the ingredients to cool before filling the dough will prevent the pastry from becoming soggy.
- For an even golden color, ensure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F before baking the empanadas for 20-25 minutes.
Beef Empanadas Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef is best for my empanadas?
Absolutely! I recommend using ground beef with a fat content of around 80/20. This ensures that your filling remains juicy and flavorful during cooking. Leaner ground beef can be too dry, while fattier cuts may result in a greasy filling.
How should I store leftover Beef Empanadas?
For the best freshness, store leftover Beef Empanadas in the fridge for up to 3 days. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. This prevents them from drying out and keeps them delicious for your next snack time!
Can I freeze my Beef Empanadas, and if so, how?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze your Beef Empanadas! After they’ve cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat them directly from the freezer in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes.
What should I do if my empanada dough is too crumbly?
Very! If your dough is too crumbly and not holding together, it may need a little more moisture. Gradually add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. You want it to be moist but not overly sticky. Remember, don’t overwork it—just mix until combined!
Are there any dietary considerations for making empanadas?
Absolutely! For those with gluten sensitivities, consider using a gluten-free flour blend to make the dough. If you’re adapting for dietary restrictions, check the filling ingredients, too; you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or omit the olives and raisins for milder flavors. Always keep in mind your guests’ allergies and preferences!
How can I tell when my empanadas are perfectly baked?
The visual cues are key! For baked Beef Empanadas, you’ll know they’re done when they puff up slightly and turn a rich, golden brown on the outside. They should feel firm to the touch and aromatic. If frying, aim for a similar golden color, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes on each side. Enjoy the crispiness!
Beef Empanadas
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour The foundation for a flaky, golden crust.
- 1 teaspoon salt Enhances the flavor of your dough.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter Cold and cubed for tenderness.
- 1 large egg Adds richness and helps bind the dough.
- 1/4 cup cold water Adjust as needed to bring the dough together.
- 1 tablespoon vinegar Optional secret ingredient for tenderness.
- 1 lb ground beef The star ingredient that brings hearty flavor.
- 1 small onion Finely chopped to sweeten and enrich the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic Minced for aromatic flavor.
- 1/2 bell pepper bell pepper Finely chopped for sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon paprika Provides a hint of smokiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder Adjust to preferred spice level.
- salt and pepper Season to taste.
- 1/4 cup olives Chopped, optional for added brininess.
- 1/4 cup raisins Optional for a touch of sweetness.
- 1 egg beaten egg For egg wash to create a golden finish.
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir gently to ensure even distribution.
- Toss in 1/2 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 large egg, 1/4 cup of cold water, and 1 tablespoon of vinegar.
- Gradually add your egg mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until a cohesive dough forms.
- Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of ground beef until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add 1 finely chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1/2 finely chopped bell pepper. Sauté until veggies are soft.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder, along with salt and pepper.
- If using, fold in 1/4 cup of chopped olives and 1/4 cup of raisins. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes and remove from heat.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick and cut out circles.
- Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle, fold over and seal.
- Arrange on a baking sheet, brush with beaten egg, and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Enjoy your empanadas with a dipping sauce or salsa!
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