Are you ready to make the best beef empanadas? These savory treats are packed with flavor and are surprisingly easy to prepare. With a hearty filling of ground beef, fresh veggies, and spices, plus a simple dough, you’ll impress your family and friends. In this article, I’ll share my favorite recipe and tips to help you create golden, flaky empanadas that everyone will love. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Beef Filling
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
To make the beef filling, start with ground beef. This is the heart of the empanada. I use onion and garlic for a robust flavor. Red bell pepper adds a sweet crunch. Don’t forget the peas and hard-boiled eggs; they give texture and extra taste.
Dough Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt (for dough)
– ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– 5-6 tablespoons cold water
For the dough, all-purpose flour is key for a good structure. Chilled butter creates a flaky texture. A touch of salt brings out the flavors. Cold water helps bind it all together.
Optional Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
– Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water, for sealing)
I like to use cilantro for a fresh look and taste. An egg wash seals the empanadas and gives them a nice, shiny finish. You can choose to skip these if you prefer.
For the full recipe, check out the complete guide above.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Filling
– Sauté onion and bell pepper
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and 1 chopped red bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until they soften. Then, add 2 minced garlic cloves. Stir for 1 more minute until fragrant.
– Cook the ground beef
Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon. Stir often until it turns brown. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Season the Mixture
– Add spices and peas
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix well. Add 1 cup of frozen peas and cook for 3-4 minutes until heated.
– Fold in eggs and cilantro
Take the skillet off the heat and add 2 chopped hard-boiled eggs. If you like, add 1 tablespoon of chopped cilantro. Let the filling cool to room temperature.
Make the Dough
– Combine flour and salt
In a bowl, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of salt.
– Cut in butter and add water
Cut in ½ cup of chilled butter until it looks like crumbs. Gradually stir in 5-6 tablespoons of cold water. Form it into a ball and wrap it in plastic. Chill for 30 minutes.
Assemble the Empanadas
– Roll out dough and cut circles
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface until it is about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter to cut 5-6 inch circles.
– Fill and seal each empanada
Place a heaping tablespoon of the beef filling on each dough circle. Brush the edges with egg wash. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges to seal and crimp with a fork.
Bake
– Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet
Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with egg wash.
– Timing for baking and checking readiness
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Check them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Serve
– Cooling and presentation tips
Let the empanadas cool for a few minutes on a wire rack. Serve them warm on a platter, garnished with cilantro and your favorite dipping sauce, like salsa or guacamole. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Filling
To make great beef empanadas, keep the filling from being greasy. After cooking the beef, drain any extra fat. This keeps the filling light and tasty. Next, balance the flavors with spices. Use ground cumin and paprika to give it depth. A pinch of salt and black pepper brings everything together. These spices add warmth and flavor to your filling.
Dough Tips
The dough is key for nice empanadas. You want a smooth, soft texture. When mixing flour and butter, make sure to cut them well. This helps create a flaky crust. After forming the dough, let it rest in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This step allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out later.
Baking Tips
For a golden brown color, watch the baking time closely. Bake the empanadas at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them towards the end. If they look too pale, give them a few more minutes. Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving. To store baked empanadas, keep them in an airtight container. They stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days.
Variations
Vegetarian Empanadas
For a meatless option, you can swap beef with many tasty ingredients. Try using:
– Black beans
– Lentils
– Mushrooms
– Spinach
– Sweet potatoes
Popular vegetable combinations include sautéed onions, peppers, and corn. You can mix and match based on what you like. Just ensure the filling is not too watery. This way, your empanadas stay crisp.
Spicy Beef Empanadas
If you love heat, add jalapeños to your beef filling. Chop them finely and mix them in with the beef while cooking. This brings a nice kick! You can also use spices like cayenne or chili powder for extra flavor. Try adding smoked paprika for a smoky twist, too.
Different Dough Options
You can change the dough to fit your needs. For gluten-free dough, use rice flour or almond flour. Mix it well with a binder like xanthan gum. This keeps the dough from falling apart.
To add flavor, try mixing in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough. This small change makes a big difference in taste.
Check out the Full Recipe for the classic beef empanadas and feel free to experiment!
Storage Info
Refrigerating Leftovers
To store baked empanadas, first let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container. You can also wrap them in plastic wrap. This keeps them fresh and tasty. In the fridge, they last about 3 to 4 days.
Freezing Uncooked Empanadas
For freezing, shape the empanadas but don’t bake them yet. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they don’t touch each other. Freeze them for about 1 to 2 hours. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating Tips
To reheat empanadas, the best method is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the empanadas on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes. This keeps them crispy. Avoid microwaving them as it can make them soggy. Enjoy your tasty beef empanadas warm!
FAQs
What is the best way to reheat empanadas?
To reheat empanadas, use an oven or air fryer. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the empanadas on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps them crispy and warm. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make them soggy.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. Prepare the dough and wrap it in plastic wrap. Store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. This allows for easy assembly when you’re ready to fill and bake.
What is the origin of beef empanadas?
Beef empanadas trace their roots to Spain. They spread to Latin America with explorers. Each region adds its twist. In Argentina, they are a staple, often made with spices and olives. In other areas, you might find different meats or veggies inside.
How do I know when the empanadas are done?
Look for a golden-brown color on the outside. The edges should be firm and slightly crisp. You can also tap them; they should sound hollow. If they meet these signs, they’re ready to enjoy!
Can I use other meats besides beef?
Absolutely! You can use chicken, pork, or turkey. For a vegetarian option, try cheese, mushrooms, or black beans. The filling can be as diverse as your taste. Get creative and mix in your favorite flavors!
Making beef empanadas is fun and easy. We covered all the key steps, from choosing the right filling ingredients to making perfect dough. Remember to season well for tasty bites. Don’t forget to try variations like vegetarian or spicy options. Proper storage also helps enjoy them longer. With these tips, you can create delicious empanadas that impress friends and family. Try these methods and enjoy your cooking adventure!
