Easy Beef Empanadas are tasty treats filled with seasoned beef and spices, all wrapped in a crispy dough. Perfect for snacks or quick meals!
Who doesn’t love a warm, flaky empanada? They are great for sharing, but let’s be honest—I usually eat a few all by myself! 😄
These empanadas are super simple to make. I love preparing a big batch to freeze and pop in the oven whenever I’m craving something delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: For this recipe, lean ground beef works best to avoid excess grease. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken is a great substitute.
Onion: Yellow onions give a nice sweetness to the filling. If you’re in a pinch, shallots or green onions can also do the trick, though they have a milder flavor.
Green Bell Pepper: While green bell peppers add a fresh crunch, you can swap them for red or yellow peppers if you prefer a sweeter taste. A little diced jalapeño can bring some heat if you like spice!
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to use a Mexican blend for a different flavor. For dairy-free options, shredded plant-based cheese works well, though the melting quality may vary.
Empanada Dough: Refrigerated empanada dough is quick and easy, but you can make your own using simple pastry dough if you want that homemade touch. Just make sure to roll it thin enough!
How Can I Ensure My Empanadas Stay Sealed During Cooking?
One common issue is opening seams when baking or frying. To avoid this, take care to seal the edges tightly. Here’s how:
- After placing the filling on the dough, fold the dough over and press the edges firmly together.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges; this not only seals but adds a nice look!
- Be sure not to overfill; leave enough space to seal properly.
For added assurance, you can brush a little water on the edges before sealing, which helps create a better bond. Enjoy making those perfect empanadas!
Easy Beef Empanadas Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
For the Empanadas:
- 1 package refrigerated empanada dough (or homemade dough)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Olive oil (for frying or brushing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to cook. If you bake them, the total time is about 45 minutes, while frying will be slightly shorter. Either way, you’ll have delicious beef empanadas ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a large skillet, drizzle a little olive oil and turn the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and green bell pepper. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
2. Cook the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Keep cooking until the beef is browned, which should take about 7-10 minutes. Once it’s browned, drain any extra fat from the skillet.
3. Season the Mixture:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Stir in the ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook everything together for another 2-3 minutes. After that, remove the skillet from the heat and mix in the shredded cheese until it melts. Let the filling cool slightly while you prepare the dough.
4. Assemble the Empanadas:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you’re baking. On a clean surface, lay out the empanada dough circles. Place a spoonful of your beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Carefully fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges to seal them well, and you can crimp the edges with a fork for a nice touch.
5. Prepare for Baking or Frying:
If you’re baking the empanadas, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a lovely golden finish. For frying, heat oil in a deep pan until it’s hot and ready.
6. Cook the Empanadas:
Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown. If you choose to fry them, carefully place each empanada in the hot oil and fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden and cooked through. Once done, set them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Serve:
Your tasty beef empanadas are now ready to enjoy! Serve them warm with some avocado or guacamole on the side for dipping. Enjoy every bite of your homemade treats!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly, as these meats can be slightly drier. You may want to add a little extra olive oil or even a splash of chicken broth to keep the filling moist.
Can I Make the Empanada Dough from Scratch?
Yes, homemade dough is a great option! For a simple recipe, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (cold and cubed), and 1/4 to 1/3 cup of cold water. Mix until a dough forms, then chill for about 30 minutes before rolling out.
How to Store Leftover Empanadas?
Store any leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy. You can also freeze uncooked empanadas for up to 3 months!
Can I Customize the Filling?
Definitely! Feel free to add other ingredients like corn, black beans, or different spices to the beef filling. Chopped olives or jalapeños can also add extra flavor. Just keep in mind that too much moisture can make the dough soggy, so balance is key!
