Craving something savory, portable, and bursting with flavor? Look no further than this Easy Homemade Ground Beef Empanada Recipe! These empanadas are filled with a deliciously seasoned beef mixture, wrapped in a flaky pastry crust, and baked to golden perfection. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, these empanadas are sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, they are freezer-friendly and perfect for meal prep. Ready to make your own empanadas at home? Keep reading for the step-by-step guide!
What Are Ground Beef Empanadas?
Empanadas are a type of pastry, popular in Latin American and Spanish cuisine, that are stuffed with various savory fillings such as beef, chicken, vegetables, or cheese. These Ground Beef Empanadas feature a flavorful filling made from ground beef, onions, garlic, and seasonings, all tucked inside a homemade or store-bought dough and baked until golden brown. The result is a crispy, flaky exterior with a juicy and savory filling inside—a true comfort food classic!
Ingredients List for Ground Beef Empanadas
To make these homemade beef empanadas, you’ll need a combination of ingredients for the filling and the dough. While the dough can be made from scratch, you can also use store-bought pie crust or puff pastry to save time. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Ground Beef Filling:
- Ground Beef – 1 pound (85% lean is best for a juicy filling).
- Onion – 1 medium onion, finely chopped.
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced.
- Bell Pepper – 1 small red or green bell pepper, diced (optional but adds great flavor).
- Tomato Paste – 2 tablespoons.
- Ground Cumin – 1 teaspoon.
- Paprika – 1 teaspoon (regular or smoked).
- Oregano – 1 teaspoon.
- Salt & Pepper – To taste.
- Olives – ¼ cup green or black olives, chopped (optional, but traditional in many recipes).
- Hard-Boiled Egg – 1 egg, chopped (optional, for added texture and flavor).
- Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon for sautéing.
- Chili Flakes – ¼ teaspoon (optional for a bit of heat).
For the Empanada Dough:
- All-Purpose Flour – 2 ½ cups.
- Butter – ½ cup (cold, unsalted, and cubed).
- Salt – 1 teaspoon.
- Egg Yolk – 1 large.
- Cold Water – ½ cup (you may need a bit more, depending on the dough's consistency).
For the Egg Wash:
- Egg – 1 large, beaten with a tablespoon of water (for brushing over the empanadas before baking).
Substitutions and Variations
Empanadas are very versatile, so feel free to customize the ingredients to your liking. Here are some easy substitutions and variations you can try:
- Meat Alternatives: Swap the ground beef for ground chicken, turkey, pork, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option.
- Dough Options: Save time by using pre-made pie crust or puff pastry dough. Both will work wonderfully and still give you that flaky crust.
- Add Veggies: You can add diced carrots, peas, or corn to the filling for extra texture and flavor.
- Cheese Empanadas: If you love cheese, add shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or queso fresco to the beef filling.
- Spice It Up: Add more chili flakes or even a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herbs: For added freshness, throw in some chopped cilantro or parsley into the beef filling.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let's walk through how to make these delicious homemade ground beef empanadas.
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
If you’re making your dough from scratch, start with the empanada dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Add the cold cubed butter and work it into the flour with your hands or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the egg yolk and gradually stir in the cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough starts to come together. You may not need all the water.
- Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes while you make the filling.
Step 2: Make the Ground Beef Filling
While the dough is chilling, it’s time to make the filling:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper (if using) and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let everything cook together for 2-3 minutes to develop the flavors.
- Stir in the chopped olives and hard-boiled egg (if using). Cook for another minute, then remove the pan from the heat and let the filling cool slightly.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has chilled, it’s time to roll it out:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ⅛-inch thickness.
- Using a round cutter (or the rim of a glass or bowl), cut out circles that are about 4-6 inches in diameter.
Step 4: Assemble the Empanadas
Now it’s time to fill and shape your empanadas:
- Place about 1-2 tablespoons of the ground beef filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal.
- Crimp the edges with a fork to ensure the empanada is well-sealed and looks decorative.
- Transfer the assembled empanadas to the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake
For a beautiful golden-brown finish:
- Brush the tops of the empanadas with the egg wash (the beaten egg and water mixture).
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once the empanadas are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm, either as a snack, appetizer, or alongside a salad for a complete meal.
How to Cook Ground Beef Empanadas: A Step-by-Step Guide
To summarize, here’s how to cook Ground Beef Empanadas step-by-step:
- Make the Dough: Prepare the dough from scratch or use store-bought pie crust.
- Cook the Filling: Brown the beef, sauté the veggies, and season the mixture with spices and optional add-ins.
- Assemble the Empanadas: Roll out the dough, fill with the beef mixture, and seal the edges.
- Bake: Brush with egg wash and bake until golden brown.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling the Empanadas: Be careful not to overstuff the empanadas, as they may burst open during baking. Stick to about 1-2 tablespoons of filling per empanada.
- Not Sealing Properly: Make sure to press the edges of the dough firmly and crimp them well with a fork to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Skipping the Chill Step for the Dough: If you’re making homemade dough, chilling it is important to ensure it stays firm and flaky while baking.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Empanadas are delicious on their own, but here are a few ideas to take them to the next level:
- With Dipping Sauces: Serve the empanadas with a variety of dipping sauces such as chimichurri, salsa, or sour cream for an added layer of flavor.
- Salad on the Side: Pair your empanadas with a fresh salad or slaw for a light and balanced meal.
- Party-Style: Arrange the empanadas on a large platter for a party or gathering. They make perfect finger food and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
How to Serve Ground Beef Empanadas
Empanadas are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:
- As a Snack: Serve the empanadas as a snack or appetizer at parties or family gatherings.
- For Lunch or Dinner: Pair them with a light salad, rice, or beans for a more filling lunch or dinner option.
- Freezer-Friendly Meal: These empanadas freeze beautifully! Make a batch ahead, freeze them individually, and bake them straight from frozen whenever you’re in need of a quick meal.
Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Empanadas
For an eye-catching presentation, consider these ideas:
- Platter with Sauces: Serve empanadas on a large platter with small bowls of dipping sauces like chimichurri, salsa, or guacamole.
- Decorative Crimping: Use a fork or your fingers to create decorative edges on your empanadas for a professional look.
- Fresh Garnishes: Sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
Ground Beef Empanada Recipe Tips
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the filling and dough in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble the empanadas right before baking.
- Freezer Friendly: Empanadas freeze well. Freeze uncooked empanadas on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
- Add Cheese: For a cheesy twist, add a small amount of shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) to the filling before sealing the empanadas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make the empanada dough ahead of time?
A: Yes! The dough can be made a day in advance and kept in the refrigerator. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months and thaw it in the fridge overnight before using.
Q: Can I fry the empanadas instead of baking them?
A: Absolutely! You can deep-fry the empanadas in hot oil (about 350°F) for 3-5 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Just be sure to seal the edges tightly to prevent any filling from leaking out during frying.
Q: Can I use store-bought dough?
A: Yes, store-bought pie crust or puff pastry works great if you’re short on time. Just roll out the dough and cut it into circles as you would with homemade dough.
Q: How do I store leftover empanadas?
A: Leftover empanadas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to maintain their crispiness.
Q: Can I freeze leftover empanadas?
A: Yes, baked or unbaked empanadas can be frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing baked empanadas, let them cool completely before freezing, and reheat them in the oven from frozen.
Conclusion
This Easy Homemade Ground Beef Empanada Recipe delivers a delicious, flaky, and savory pastry packed with flavorful ground beef filling. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a party, or meal prepping for the week, these empanadas are versatile, easy to make, and sure to please everyone. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy this delicious handheld treat any time. So, grab your dough and get cooking—you’ll have a batch of delicious empanadas in no time!
PrintEasy Homemade Ground Beef Empanada Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 empanadas
Description
This easy homemade ground beef empanada recipe creates savory, flaky hand pies filled with seasoned ground beef, onions, garlic, and spices. A perfect appetizer, snack, or main dish, these baked empanadas are ideal for gatherings, family dinners, or meal prep. Enjoy the flavorful filling and crisp golden crust!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ¼ tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup chopped green olives (optional)
- 1 package empanada dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart while it cooks. Season with cumin, paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in tomato sauce and cook for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. Stir in green olives if using. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Roll out empanada dough and cut into 4-5 inch circles if needed. Place 1-2 tablespoon of beef filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over and crimp the edges with a fork to seal. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden crust.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the empanadas are golden brown. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a shortcut, use store-bought empanada dough or pie crust.
- Customize with different fillings like cheese, vegetables, or chicken.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Latin American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 empanada
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
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