Easy Beef Empanadas Recipe

If you are looking for a delightful, comforting dish that combines savory flavors with a crispy, flaky crust, then this Easy Beef Empanadas Recipe is exactly what you need. These golden, stuffed pastries are perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings with friends. With a rich ground beef filling seasoned just right and a quick assembly process using pre-made pie crusts, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser in no time. Trust me, once you try this Easy Beef Empanadas Recipe, it’s going to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; every ingredient plays a crucial role in building that classic empanada flavor and texture. From the lean ground beef that gives a hearty, savory center, to the vibrant bell pepper adding a splash of color and sweetness, each component is thoughtfully chosen to create a well-balanced bite.

• Pre-made pie crust (2 rolls): Saves time and gives you that perfectly flaky dough without the fuss.
• Lean ground beef (1 pound): Use 90% lean for less fat, but 80% will work if you drain it well to avoid greasy empanadas.
• Yellow onion (1/4 cup, diced): Adds mild sweetness and depth when sautéed with beef.
• Bell pepper (1/2 medium, diced): Any color works; it brightens the filling visually and in flavor.
• Cumin (1 teaspoon): Provides that warm, earthy spice essential in Latin American dishes.
• Minced garlic (1 teaspoon): Fresh garlic offers a punch of savory aroma and flavor.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the natural flavors in the filling.
• Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Just the right amount of heat to balance the spices.
• Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick and complexity without overpowering.
• Mexican blended cheese (1 cup): Melts perfectly inside and adds creamy richness.
• Egg (1): For brushing on top, giving the empanadas a golden, irresistible finish.

How to Make Easy Beef Empanadas Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s hot and ready when your empanadas are assembled. Meanwhile, prepare your cookie sheet with a baking mat, non-stick foil, parchment paper, or a light coating of oil to prevent sticking and promote even browning.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef together with the diced onion and bell pepper until the beef is fully cooked through, the onions turn translucent, and the peppers soften up nicely. This creates a flavorful, tender base secured by perfectly sautéed aromatics. Remember to drain any excess fat after cooking to keep the filling from becoming greasy.

Step 3: Season the Beef Mixture

With the beef mixture still in the skillet but off the heat, stir in your cumin, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and chili powder. The spices will jump to life with mere minutes of simmering heat, infusing the filling with vibrant, nuanced flavors that make each bite sing.

Step 4: Prepare the Dough Circles

Roll out the pie crusts on a clean surface. Using a bowl about the size of a cereal bowl, trace circles onto the dough—three per crust usually works well. Gather leftover dough to re-roll and continue cutting smaller circles until all the dough is used, giving you approximately eight circles in total. This step ensures evenly sized empanadas that cook uniformly.

Step 5: Assemble the Empanadas

Place one dough circle on your prepared baking sheet and spoon about two to three tablespoons of the beef filling into the center. Top with a tablespoon of Mexican blended cheese to add that irresistible gooey layer. Fold the dough over the filling into a semicircle, then press the edges down firmly with a fork to seal them tight so none of that delicious filling escapes during baking.

Step 6: Brush and Bake

After assembling all the empanadas, beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it gently over each empanada’s surface. This egg wash is key to achieving that signature golden glaze. Bake in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until the empanadas are beautifully golden brown on top and cooked through.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove your empanadas from the oven and let them cool just a bit. The filling will be piping hot inside! Serve them with your favorite fresh salads, tangy salsas, or creamy guacamole to elevate this simple meal into something truly special.

How to Serve Easy Beef Empanadas Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or green onions can add a burst of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the warm, hearty empanadas. A dollop of sour cream or crema on the side also complements the richness while adding a creamy texture.

Side Dishes

Pair your empanadas with vibrant sides like a crisp Mexican street corn salad, a zesty avocado salsa, or a simple mixed green salad tossed with lime vinaigrette. These lighter accompaniments balance the savory richness of the beef and cheese filling perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your empanadas as part of a shared tapas-style platter with an assortment of dips like black bean dip, spicy crema, or salsa verde. You can also cut smaller empanadas into bite-sized pieces for a party appetizer or place a few on colorful plates and garnish with edible flowers for a festive touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, making them a fantastic option for quick lunches or snacks later in the week.

Freezing

To freeze, place uncooked assembled empanadas in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your empanadas in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 8 to 10 minutes to revive their crisp crust. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy, losing that perfect flaky texture.

FAQs

Can I make the dough from scratch instead of using pre-made pie crust?

Absolutely! Making your own empanada dough from scratch can be rewarding and allows you to control the texture and flavor. However, pre-made pie crusts offer a quick and convenient alternative that still delivers delicious, flaky empanadas without extra effort.

What other fillings can I use besides ground beef?

Empanadas are wonderfully versatile. You can try shredded chicken, spiced pork, cheese and spinach, or even vegetarian fillings like black beans and roasted vegetables. Each variation offers a unique twist on this classic dish.

How do I prevent empanadas from leaking during baking?

Make sure to seal the edges well by pressing firmly with a fork and avoid overfilling the empanadas. Brushing the edges with a little beaten egg before folding can also help create a stronger seal.

Can I prepare empanadas completely in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the empanadas and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them tightly to prevent the dough from drying out. This makes meal prep easy when entertaining or planning ahead.

What dipping sauces pair best with beef empanadas?

Classic options include tangy salsa roja, creamy guacamole, or a spicy chipotle mayo. You can also enjoy them with chimichurri or a fresh cilantro lime yogurt sauce for an exciting flavor boost.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up this Easy Beef Empanadas Recipe soon—it’s a true crowd-pleaser that’s both simple to make and packed with incredible flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends, these empanadas bring warmth and joy to any table. Give it a try, and prepare for everyone to ask for seconds!

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