Delicious Beef Empanadas Recipe

Name: Delicious Beef Empanadas Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 2 sheets puff pastry; 1 beaten egg (for egg wash); Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Emily Harrison

Posted:

February 7, 2025

Updated:

February 7, 2025

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Have you ever craved a dish that perfectly balances savory flavors with a delightful crunch? Beef empanadas are the answer! These golden-brown pastries are filled with seasoned ground beef and spices, making them a beloved treat in many cultures. Imagine biting into one of these warm delights, with the aroma of spices wafting through the air and the flaky crust giving way to a juicy filling—it’s simply irresistible.

Beef empanadas shine at any gathering or even as a comforting meal during the week. They can be served as appetizers for parties or enjoyed on family movie nights. What truly makes these empanadas special is not just their taste but also the memories they create. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or savoring them alone, each bite evokes warmth and comfort. Join me in discovering how to make these delectable treats at home!

Why You’ll Love This Beef Empanadas

Flavor Explosion: Each bite offers a burst of flavor from the seasoned ground beef combined with aromatic spices that tantalize your taste buds.
Versatile Meal Option: Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or dinner; these empanadas fit any occasion and can be served with various dips.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious dish without spending all day in the kitchen.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Beef Empanadas

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a flavorful filling while reducing excess fat content.
Onion: A medium onion finely chopped adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
Garlic: Minced garlic enhances the overall flavor profile of the empanada filling.
Olive Oil: A tablespoon of olive oil helps sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant.
Cumin: This spice adds an earthy flavor that’s essential in traditional empanada recipes.
Paprika: Sweet paprika brings color and a mild flavor that complements the beef perfectly.
Puff Pastry Sheets: Store-bought puff pastry makes it easy to create flaky shells without fuss.
Egg Wash: A beaten egg brushed over the pastries gives them a beautiful golden finish after baking.

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

How to Make Beef Empanadas

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped onions until translucent. Then stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned through. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Season the Mixture

Sprinkle cumin and paprika over the cooked beef mixture. Stir well to combine all flavors and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 4: Roll Out Puff Pastry

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out puff pastry sheets to about an eighth-inch thickness. Cut circles using a large cookie cutter.

Step 5: Fill and Seal

Place about a tablespoon of cooled filling on one half of each pastry circle. Fold over to create half-moons and press edges together firmly. Use a fork to crimp edges for extra sealing.

Step 6: Bake

Arrange empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush tops with egg wash for shine. Bake in preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Transfer to plates for serving; enjoy your homemade beef empanadas warm!

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices will elevate your filling’s flavor significantly.
Don’t Overfill: Avoid overfilling your empanadas; otherwise, they may burst during baking.
Freezing Option: You can freeze unbaked empanadas; just bake them from frozen when ready!

Mistakes to avoid

Not Using Fresh Ingredients
Fresh ingredients are key for delicious beef empanadas. Avoid using expired or low-quality meat, as this can impact flavor and texture. Always choose fresh ground beef and vibrant vegetables. If possible, buy your ingredients from local markets where quality is guaranteed. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley add a burst of flavor that dried versions cannot match. Investing in high-quality ingredients will elevate your empanadas significantly.
Overstuffing the Empanadas
While it might be tempting to fill your beef empanadas to the brim with filling, doing so can lead to a messy outcome. Overstuffing can cause the dough to tear, resulting in leaks during cooking. A good rule of thumb is to use about one tablespoon of filling per empanada. This allows the edges to seal properly, ensuring a beautiful presentation and a delightful bite-sized treat.
Ignoring Dough Consistency
The dough consistency is crucial for perfect beef empanadas. If your dough is too dry, it may crack while baking or frying. On the other hand, a wet dough can become sticky and difficult to handle. Make sure to follow the recipe closely and adjust the liquid as needed based on your environment’s humidity. The right consistency will yield a flaky crust that complements the savory filling beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

This Beef Empanadas is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Fresh Salsa: A vibrant, zesty salsa adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the beef. You can use a classic tomato salsa or a mango salsa for a sweet twist.
Guacamole: Creamy guacamole complements the crispiness of the empanadas perfectly. The smooth texture and flavorful avocado enhance each bite.
Green Salad: A light green salad with citrus dressing provides a fresh balance to the hearty beef filling. Consider arugula or mixed greens topped with cherry tomatoes and red onion.

FAQs

What are Beef Empanadas?

Beef Empanadas are savory pastries filled with spiced ground beef, onions, and sometimes vegetables or cheese. Originating from Latin America, these handheld delights are either baked or fried, resulting in a crispy exterior that holds a flavorful filling. They make excellent appetizers or snacks and can be served at parties, gatherings, or as a satisfying meal. Variations exist across regions, so feel free to customize your empanada filling according to your taste preferences.

How do I make the dough for Beef Empanadas?

To create the perfect dough for Beef Empanadas, combine flour, salt, butter, and water into a smooth mixture. Start by mixing flour and salt in a bowl before cutting in cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water until the dough comes together but remains slightly tacky. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes before rolling it out to form circles for your empanada shells. This resting period allows gluten to relax, resulting in tender pastry.

Can I freeze Beef Empanadas?

Yes! Freezing Beef Empanadas is an excellent way to prepare meals ahead of time. To freeze them, assemble the empanadas without cooking them first and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This method retains their delicious flavor while providing convenience.

What can I serve with Beef Empanadas?

When serving Beef Empanadas, consider pairing them with various dips like chimichurri sauce or sour cream for added flavor. A side of rice pilaf or refried beans also makes for a hearty meal. For a lighter option, serve with pickled vegetables or crunchy slaw to balance the richness of the beef filling. Feel free to get creative with your sides based on your preferences!

Conclusion for Beef Empanadas

In conclusion, Beef Empanadas are not only delicious but also highly customizable and easy to prepare. With their flaky crust and savory filling, they appeal to many palates and serve well at any occasion. Remember that you can adjust the spices according to your taste while enjoying various side dishes like salsa or guacamole alongside them. Freezing extra empanadas ensures you have this delightful dish ready whenever cravings strike! Enjoy making these tasty treats that bring warmth and comfort to every meal!