Homemade Beef Empanadas – Crispy & Flavorful Hand Pies
Table of Contents
Introduction
Are you craving something crispy, flavorful, and irresistible? Beef empanadas might just be the answer you’ve been looking for! These golden, hand-held pies are filled with seasoned ground beef, onions, and a blend of spices that create an explosion of savory flavors in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a savory snack, a party appetizer, or a satisfying meal, beef empanadas are sure to please.
The beauty of empanadas lies in their versatility. You can enjoy them as a quick dinner, make them in advance for a weekend gathering, or serve them with a side of salsa for an added kick. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and customizable for every palate. With a crispy crust and a juicy filling, they strike the perfect balance between texture and flavor. If you love dishes like our homemade chicken pot pie or the comforting flavors of stuffed bell peppers, you’re in for a treat with these empanadas. Keep reading to find out how to make these crispy delights yourself—you won’t regret it!
What is Beef Empanada?
The term “empanada” comes from the Spanish word empanar, which means to bread or wrap in bread. So, essentially, these little hand pies are a delicious bundle of seasoned filling wrapped in a golden, flaky dough. Beef empanadas are the perfect comfort food, offering that crispy bite on the outside and a warm, flavorful filling on the inside. But why “beef”? Well, beef is a popular choice for empanada fillings because it’s hearty, juicy, and pairs beautifully with the other spices that make these pies irresistible.
Did you know that empanadas have roots that trace back to Spain? The concept has evolved over centuries, and today, they’re loved all over Latin America and beyond. Whether they’re baked or fried, the hand pie trend is going strong—and for a good reason! They’re filling, flavorful, and satisfy that craving for something both savory and crispy. So, if you’re wondering, “Can I make this at home?”—the answer is yes! With this easy recipe, you’ll be making delicious beef empanadas in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Beef Empanadas Recipe
What makes this Beef Empanada recipe so special? Let’s start with the filling. Ground beef is seasoned with a perfect blend of onions, garlic, spices, and a little kick of heat—resulting in a rich and juicy filling that’s just begging to be wrapped in a flaky, golden crust. When you bite into these empanadas, you’re greeted with that crisp, buttery exterior and a savory, tender filling that’s downright addictive.
Another reason to love this recipe is the ease of making it. You don’t need to be an expert chef to prepare beef empanadas; it’s a simple process that even beginner cooks can master. The dough can be store-bought to save time, or you can try making your own if you’re feeling adventurous. Plus, making these at home saves you money compared to buying pre-made ones, and you have full control over the quality and flavor.
And let’s not forget—empanadas are incredibly versatile! You can tweak the filling to suit your taste. Add vegetables, beans, or cheese to create your own signature empanada. Whether you bake or fry them, these little hand pies are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Want to make a family-friendly dinner or a tasty appetizer for a party? Beef empanadas are the answer!
How to Make Beef Empanadas
Quick Overview
This Beef Empanada recipe is as easy as it is delicious. Start by cooking your seasoned beef filling, then assemble the empanadas by spooning the mixture into circles of dough. Seal them up, and bake or fry them to crispy perfection. In just under an hour, you’ll have a batch of golden, flavorful hand pies ready to devour. The prep time is quick, and the result is simply mouthwatering!
Key Ingredients for Beef Empanadas
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup green olives, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
- 1 package of empanada dough discs (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Vegetable oil (for frying, if frying)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Filling:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a little oil.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook until the beef is browned, about 10 minutes. If you’re using olives and raisins, stir them in at this point.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Prepare the Dough:
- If using store-bought dough discs, lay them out on a clean surface. If you’re making your dough, roll it out into thin circles (about 4-5 inches in diameter).
- Spoon a small amount of the beef mixture onto the center of each dough disc (about 1-2 tablespoons).
- Seal the Empanadas:
- Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together with your fingers, then crimp them with a fork to seal.
- Brush the tops of each empanada with the beaten egg for a golden, shiny finish.
- Cooking the Empanadas:
- To Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.
- To Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Fry the empanadas for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked or fried, serve your empanadas warm with a side of salsa, guacamole, or a simple salad. Enjoy the crispy, savory goodness!
What to Serve Beef Empanadas With
Beef empanadas are delicious on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with other dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Salsa: Whether mild or spicy, a fresh salsa adds a zesty kick that complements the rich beef filling.
- Guacamole: The creamy avocado texture is a perfect contrast to the crispy empanadas.
- Rice or Salad: Serve them with a light side of rice or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Chimichurri Sauce: This tangy, herb-packed sauce is perfect for dipping.
Top Tips for Perfecting Beef Empanadas
- Filling Variations: Want to change it up? Try adding shredded cheese, sautéed bell peppers, or even some hard-boiled eggs for extra flavor.
- Dough Options: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own empanada dough, or for a quicker version, buy pre-made discs from the store.
- Fry or Bake?: While frying gives the empanadas a rich, crispy texture, baking is a healthier option and still yields delicious results.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftovers? No problem! To store, place your cooled empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just make sure to wrap them individually. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
Recipe Schema Markup
- Preparation Time: PT20M
- Cooking Time: PT30M
- Total Time: PT50M
- Type of Recipe: Appetizer, Main Course
- Cuisine: Latin American, Argentinian
- Keywords: Beef Empanadas, Latin food, savory hand pies, crispy empanadas, easy empanada recipe
- Recipe Yield: 12 empanadas
- Calories: 250 per empanada
Pros
- Easy to make and customizable
- Crispy, flavorful, and satisfying
- Great for parties and gatherings
Cons
- Requires frying if you prefer that method (though baking is a healthier option)
- Some ingredients may be hard to find depending on location
Recipe Instructions
- Sauté onions and garlic.
- Brown ground beef with spices and seasonings.
- Assemble empanadas with beef filling.
- Bake or fry until golden brown.
- Serve and enjoy!
Be sure to try these Beef Empanadas—they’re sure to be a hit!