These Easy Beef Empanadas are tasty pockets filled with seasoned beef and veggies, all wrapped in a golden crust. They’re perfect for lunch or a fun snack!
Who doesn’t love a hand-held meal? I find myself making these for parties, and they disappear fast! Just bake them, and you’re all set for a delicious treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives empanadas their hearty flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using ground turkey or chicken. Plant-based ground meat is also a great alternative for a vegetarian version.
Onion: I use sweet onions to add a mild flavor. You can swap in red or green onions for a different taste, or even shallots for a more delicate flavor.
Bell Pepper: I enjoy using red bell pepper for its sweetness, but green bell pepper works well too. If you’re avoiding peppers, finely chopped carrots or zucchini can add bulk and flavor just as nicely.
Cheese: Cheddar brings a strong taste, while mozzarella is mild and melty. Mix them for a balance! If you’re dairy-free, vegan cheese or nutritional yeast can provide that cheesy experience.
Empanada Dough: While store-bought is super convenient, you can make your own or even use pie crust. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free dough available in stores.
How Do I Ensure My Empanada Filling Stays Moist and Flavorful?
Getting the filling right is crucial for tasty empanadas. Here’s how to keep it moist and flavorful:
- Cook the meat in stages: Start by sautéing onions and peppers before adding the beef, which allows flavors to blossom.
- Season generously! The spices really enhance flavor. Don’t forget to taste as you go.
- Mix in cheese off the heat. This keeps it from becoming too oily or separating.
Remember, letting the filling cool slightly before assembling helps prevent dough from getting soggy!
How to Make Easy Beef Empanadas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 bell pepper, finely chopped (red or green)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
For The Empanadas:
- 1 package of pre-made empanada dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Olive oil (for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to bake. In just around 40 minutes, you’ll have delicious beef empanadas ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your empanadas bake evenly and turn golden brown.
2. Cook the Filling:
Grab a large skillet and heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing them until they soften, which should take about 3-4 minutes. After that, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute to release its aroma.
3. Brown the Beef:
Now it’s time to add the ground beef to the skillet. Sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook the beef for about 5-7 minutes or until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spatula as it sizzles. If there’s too much fat in the skillet, don’t forget to drain it!
4. Mix in Cheese:
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheese. Keep mixing until it melts into the beef filling and everything is well combined. Let the filling cool slightly while you prepare the dough.
5. Assemble Empanadas:
Find a clean surface and lay out your empanada dough. Take a tablespoon of the beef filling and place it right in the center of each dough round. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. For an extra touch, use a fork to crimp the edges!
6. Apply Egg Wash:
Brush the tops of your empanadas with the beaten egg. This will make them look shiny and golden when they come out of the oven.
7. Bake:
Place your empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re beautifully golden brown.
8. Serve:
Once out of the oven, let your empanadas cool for a few minutes. Then enjoy them with guacamole, salsa, or your favorite dipping sauce. Happy eating!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great substitute for ground beef in empanadas. Just be aware that these leaner meats may require a little more seasoning, so feel free to add extra spices or herbs to taste.
What If I Don’t Have Empanada Dough?
No problem! You can make your own dough using flour, water, and a bit of fat like butter or shortening. Mix 2 cups of flour with 1/2 cup of cold water and 1/4 cup of melted butter, then roll it out and cut into circles. Alternatively, you can use pie crusts as a substitute.
How to Store Leftover Empanadas?
Store any leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze them before baking; just make sure to wrap them tightly and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Filling?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in some diced veggies like carrots, peas, or corn to the filling for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the onion and bell pepper until they are tender before adding the beef.
