Easy Beef Empanadas Recipe

Easy Beef Empanadas Recipe

by

Easy Beef Empanadas Recipe is a delightful dish that brings a taste of comfort and a touch of adventure to your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing for a cozy night in, or simply craving something delicious, these empanadas are the perfect answer. Crispy, golden-brown pastry enveloping a savory beef filling will have you and your loved ones coming back for more. Let’s whip up this tasty treat together!

What are Empanadas?

Empanadas are pastries that originated in Spain and spread throughout Latin America, each region adding its own twist. They can be baked or fried and are usually filled with a variety of ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and cheeses. Their compact size makes them perfect for snacking or serving at gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Beef Empanadas Recipe

  • Quick to Prepare: With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, you’ll have these empanadas ready in no time.
  • Customizable: Feel free to adjust the filling to your taste. Whether you prefer spicier flavors or a milder version, the choice is yours.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve them as appetizers at a party, pack them in lunch boxes, or enjoy them for dinner.
  • Freezable: Make a large batch and freeze some for later. They reheat beautifully!

Ingredients for Easy Beef Empanadas

Here’s what you’ll need for making about 12 empanadas:

For the Dough

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into small cubes)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup cold water (more if needed)
  • 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)

For the Filling

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/2 bell pepper (finely chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet, based on preference)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup olives (chopped, optional)
  • 1 hard-boiled egg (chopped, optional)
  • Fresh parsley (chopped, for added flavor)
See also  Hatch Chicken Chile Verde

How to Make Easy Beef Empanadas

Preparing the Dough

  1. Mix the Flour and Butter: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and mix until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
  2. Add Water: Gradually add the cold water, mixing until the dough starts to form. It should not be sticky or too dry.
  3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently for a minute or so until it’s smooth.
  4. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to roll out later.

Making the Filling

  1. Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
  2. Add Vegetables: Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until they are softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
  3. Season the Mixture: Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. If you’re using olives or hard-boiled eggs, add them now. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is nicely blended.
  4. Let it Cool: Transfer the filling to a bowl and let it cool while you prepare the dough.

Assembling the Empanadas

  1. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a circle about 5-6 inches in diameter.
  2. Fill the Empanadas: Place a spoonful of the beef filling onto one half of each circle, leaving a little space at the edges.
  3. Seal Them Up: Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges together. You can crimp the edges with a fork for an attractive finish and to ensure they are sealed properly.
See also  Mexican Black Beans Recipe

Cooking the Empanadas

  • Frying Method: Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the empanadas a few at a time, about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown. Allow them to drain on paper towels.
  • Baking Method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush them with the beaten egg for a nice shine. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

How to Serve Easy Beef Empanadas

These empanadas are great on their own, but they can also be served with some delicious dips:

  • Salsa: Create a zesty salsa to add some freshness.
  • Guacamole: A creamy dip that pairs wonderfully with beef empanadas.
  • Chimichurri: A herby sauce that gives an extra kick of flavor.

Tips for the Best Easy Beef Empanadas

  • Avoid Overfilling: Stick to about 1-2 tablespoons of filling per empanada to prevent spilling out during cooking.
  • Taste Your Filling: Make sure your beef filling is flavorful before sealing the empanadas. Adjust seasoning to your liking.
  • Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It makes a huge difference in texture, making the dough easier to work with.
  • Experiment with Ingredients: Feel free to substitute beef with chicken, turkey, or even a vegetarian filling using beans and veggies.

Variations of Easy Beef Empanadas

Try mixing up the filling to keep things exciting:

Cheese Empanadas

Omit the beef, using a mix of cheese such as feta, mozzarella, or cheddar with some herbs and spices.

Chicken Empanadas

Swap out the ground beef for shredded cooked chicken, adding some salsa or a touch of cream cheese for creaminess.

See also  Pizza Rolls: A Deep Dive into the Cheesy Savor

Vegetarian Empanadas

Fill with a mixture of sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini. Add some cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Sweet Empanadas

Go for dessert by filling with sweet ingredients like fruit preserves or chocolate. These can be baked with a dusting of powdered sugar after cooking.

Storage Tips for Beef Empanadas

  • Refrigerating: Cooked empanadas can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Place them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
  • Freezing: Empanadas freeze well. Once assembled, you can freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be cooked from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
  • Reheating: Reheat cooked empanadas in the oven or an air fryer to bring back their crispiness.

Nutritional Benefits of Beef Empanadas

While empanadas are a treat, they also offer some nutritional benefits:

  • Protein: The ground beef filling gives a good dose of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
  • Vitamins: If you add veggies to the filling, you’ll pack in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
  • Energy: The dough provides carbohydrates, giving you energy for the day ahead.