Easy Homemade Ground Beef Empanada Recipe

Empanadas are a popular dish across Latin America, loved for their flaky pastry crust and savory fillings. This Easy Homemade Ground Beef Empanada Recipe is the perfect way to enjoy these delicious hand pies right from your own kitchen. Filled with seasoned ground beef, onions, peppers, and a blend of spices, these empanadas are satisfying, easy to make, and great for any occasion. Whether you're serving them as an appetizer, snack, or a main course, they’re sure to be a hit with the whole family.

What are Ground Beef Empanadas?

Empanadas are a type of pastry filled with savory or sweet ingredients, typically baked or fried. In this recipe, we’ll be making ground beef empanadas, which are filled with a deliciously seasoned beef mixture, encased in a flaky, golden pastry. They’re incredibly versatile, and you can enjoy them hot or cold, making them perfect for meal prep, parties, or even a grab-and-go lunch.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Empanadas

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious homemade empanadas:

For the Empanada Dough (Homemade or Store-Bought):

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 large egg
• ⅓ cup cold water
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar

Note: You can also use store-bought empanada dough or pie crust to save time.

For the Ground Beef Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef (lean beef is ideal, but you can use any type)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
• ¼ cup tomato paste (or ½ cup diced tomatoes)
• ¼ cup beef or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Assembling the Empanadas:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Optional: Sesame seeds or poppy seeds for garnish

Substitutions and Variations

Empanadas are highly versatile, and you can customize them with different ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Alternative Meat Options: Instead of ground beef, you can use ground chicken, turkey, or pork. You can also try a combination of ground beef and pork for extra flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and make a vegetarian version by using black beans, lentils, or sautéed mushrooms as the filling. Add extra vegetables like corn, spinach, or zucchini for variety.
• Cheesy Twist: For a cheesier filling, add ½ to 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or queso fresco) to the beef mixture after it's cooked.
• Spicy Empanadas: If you like a bit of heat, increase the amount of chili powder or add diced jalapeños to the filling.
• Store-Bought Dough: For convenience, you can use store-bought empanada dough, pie crust, or puff pastry instead of making your own dough.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Make Ground Beef Empanadas: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Make the Dough (If Homemade):

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
• Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, cold water, and vinegar.
• Gradually add the wet ingredients to the flour mixture, mixing with a fork until the dough comes together. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of cold water at a time.
• Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. (You can also chill it overnight if you’re preparing ahead.)

2. Prepare the Ground Beef Filling:

• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
• Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat and set the meat aside.
• In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil (if needed), and sauté the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
• Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), and tomato paste. Cook for another minute to allow the flavors to blend.
• Return the ground beef to the skillet and pour in the broth. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, until the liquid has reduced and the filling is thickened.
• Stir in the fresh cilantro (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the filling aside to cool slightly.

3. Assemble the Empanadas:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• If using homemade dough, roll it out on a floured surface to about ⅛-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or the rim of a bowl to cut out 4- to 6-inch circles. If using store-bought dough, follow the package instructions.
• Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the ground beef filling into the center of each dough circle.
• Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together and crimp with a fork to seal. Be sure to seal them tightly to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
• Transfer the empanadas to the prepared baking sheet.

4. Bake the Empanadas:

• Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish. (Optional: Sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top for added texture.)
• Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
• Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overfilling the Empanadas: Be careful not to overfill the empanadas, as this can cause them to burst open during baking. Use about 2 tablespoons of filling for each empanada to ensure they close properly.
• Not Sealing the Edges: Make sure to press the edges firmly and crimp them with a fork to prevent the filling from leaking out. A little bit of water brushed on the edges can help the dough stick together better.
• Undercooking the Filling: Ensure the ground beef filling is fully cooked and the excess liquid has evaporated before stuffing the empanadas. A watery filling can make the dough soggy.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Ground Beef Empanadas

Ground beef empanadas are incredibly versatile and can be served as an appetizer, snack, or main course. Here are some serving ideas:

• With Dipping Sauces: Serve the empanadas with a variety of dipping sauces such as salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or chimichurri. A side of spicy mayo or cilantro-lime crema also works well.
• As Part of a Meal: Pair the empanadas with a side of rice and beans or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Appetizer Platter: Make mini empanadas and serve them on a platter for a party or gathering. They’re great for finger food and can be served with various sauces for dipping.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Empanadas

• Serve with Fresh Garnishes: Garnish the empanadas with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color.
• Empanada Board: For parties or game day, create a board with a variety of empanadas (beef, chicken, veggie) and serve with dipping sauces, sliced avocados, and lime wedges for a fun and interactive presentation.

Ground Beef Empanada Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the filling and dough ahead of time. The dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, and the filling can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing Instructions: Empanadas freeze well. After assembling but before baking, place the empanadas on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, no need to thaw—just bake from frozen for 25-30 minutes.
• Reheat Leftovers: To reheat leftover empanadas, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to crisp them back up.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I fry these empanadas instead of baking them? Yes! To fry the empanadas, heat oil in a deep skillet and fry the empanadas in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy.
2. Can I use store-bought dough? Absolutely. Store-bought empanada dough, pie crust, or puff pastry can all be used for a quicker, more convenient option.
3. Can I freeze the uncooked empanadas? Yes, you can freeze uncooked empanadas. Simply freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
4. Can I make these empanadas gluten-free? Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the dough, or purchase gluten-free empanada wrappers. Be sure to check that your breadcrumbs and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
5. How long can I store leftover empanadas? Leftover baked empanadas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or toaster oven to restore their crispiness.

Conclusion

These Easy Homemade Ground Beef Empanadas are a delicious, handheld meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With a savory ground beef filling and flaky pastry crust, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Whether you bake or fry them, serve them as a main dish or appetizer, these empanadas are packed with flavor and fun to eat. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comforting goodness of homemade empanadas anytime!

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