These Easy Beef Empanadas are a fun and tasty treat! With a flaky crust filled with seasoned beef, they’re perfect for snacks or meals. You can even customize them with your favorite spices!
Making empanadas is like a mini project in the kitchen. I love baking a batch and freezing some for later. They’re always a hit when friends come over—trust me, they’ll disappear fast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star ingredient, giving the empanadas their hearty flavor. If you prefer, you can swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or a meat-free alternative like lentils or textured vegetable protein for a vegetarian option.
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness and depth. If you’re short on onions, shallots or green onions can work too. I sometimes even use leeks for a slightly different taste.
Bell Pepper: While optional, bell pepper gives a nice crunch and flavor. You can replace it with diced zucchini or mushrooms for a different texture. If you want a kick, try adding jalapeños!
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella are great choices, but feel free to experiment with pepper jack for a spicy twist, or crumbled feta for a tangy flavor. I love using a mix of cheeses for richness.
Egg Wash: This helps the empanadas achieve that lovely golden brown color. If you’re vegan, a splash of plant milk or aquafaba can also give a nice finish.
How Do You Avoid Soggy Empanadas?
Keeping your empanadas crispy is key! Start with a few simple techniques. Make sure to cool the beef mixture before filling your dough; hot filling can make the dough soggy. Also, don’t overfill your empanadas – a little goes a long way.
- Preheat your oven to the right temperature before baking.
- Ensure your egg wash is applied just to the tops; too much can lead to sogginess.
- Using parchment paper helps with even browning and prevents sticking.
By following these tips, you’ll enjoy perfectly crispy empanadas every time!
How to Make Easy Beef Empanadas?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
For the Empanadas:
- 1 package of empanada dough discs (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Olive oil (for cooking)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 25 minutes to bake, making it a total of 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Filling:
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and optionally, the bell pepper. Sauté them until softened, which should take about 3-4 minutes. After that, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells amazing!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the beef until it’s fully browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once done, remove the skillet from heat and let it cool slightly. Stir in the shredded cheese until it melts and the mixture is well combined.
3. Assemble the Empanadas:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a clean surface, take the empanada dough discs and lay them out. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each disc—be careful not to overfill! Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal, and crimp them with a fork for a nice decorative touch.
4. Bake the Empanadas:
Arrange the filled empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush the tops of the empanadas with the egg wash; this gives them a lovely golden color when they bake. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, carefully remove the empanadas from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley, and serve with guacamole or salsa on the side. Enjoy your delicious homemade beef empanadas!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. Just keep in mind that it may require a little extra seasoning to enhance the flavor. You can use the same spices and add a bit of extra salt if desired.
What Can I Use Instead of Empanada Dough Discs?
If you can’t find empanada dough, you can use store-bought pie crust or even puff pastry as a substitute. Roll out the pie crust and cut it into circles, or thaw and cut the puff pastry to the desired size. Just be sure to bake according to the pastry’s instructions for the best results.
Can I Make These Empanadas Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the empanadas ahead of time! Assemble them and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze them raw; just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How to Store Leftover Empanadas?
Store any leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Enjoy them as a quick snack or meal!
