Ground Beef Empanadas

If you’re craving a dish that’s crispy on the outside, bursting with juicy, savory flavor inside, and irresistibly easy to make, these Ground Beef Empanadas are going to become your new favorite. Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner, a comforting snack, or even a party appetizer, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of rich seasoned ground beef wrapped in a flaky, golden pastry. Once you try making these Ground Beef Empanadas, you’ll love how simple ingredients combine to create something truly special that everyone will ask for again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick: Ready in under an hour, perfect for busy days or last-minute cravings.
• Flavor-Packed: Robust spices and seasonings bring the ground beef filling to life.
• Versatile Snack or Meal: Great as a handheld snack or paired as part of a bigger meal.
• Kid-Friendly: Mild but tasty, these empanadas are loved by all ages.
• Freezable and Make-Ahead: Prep in advance and freeze for effortless future meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Ground Beef Empanadas recipe plays a crucial role in creating a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying. From the seasoned beef to the flaky dough, these essentials are easy to find and combine perfectly to give you that authentic flavor and texture.

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a juicy yet healthy filling.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
• Garlic: Boosts the savory aroma and flavor intensity.
• Ground Cumin: Provides a warm, earthy spice that defines the filling.
• Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky kick for extra flavor complexity.
• Chopped Green Olives: Offer a salty tang that balances the richness.
• Raisins: A touch of natural sweetness to contrast the savory notes.
• Empanada Dough or Refrigerated Pie Crust: The buttery shell that crisps up perfectly during baking.
• Egg Wash: For a beautiful golden finish on the pastry.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.

Variations for Ground Beef Empanadas

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, making it easy to adapt to what you have on hand or your personal dietary preferences. Feel free to experiment with these variations to keep things interesting every time you make Ground Beef Empanadas.

• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for heat lovers.
• Cheesy Filling: Mix in shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a gooey surprise inside.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap ground beef for seasoned lentils or chopped mushrooms.
• Herb Boost: Fresh cilantro or parsley adds brightness to the filling.
• Different Proteins: Try ground chicken or turkey for a lighter twist.

How to Make Ground Beef Empanadas

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and browning the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Stir in finely chopped onions and minced garlic, letting them soften until fragrant. Add cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, olives, and raisins. Cook for a few minutes until everything is well combined and the flavors meld together. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.

Step 2: Roll and Cut the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out your empanada dough or refrigerated pie crust to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter or a bowl roughly 4-5 inches in diameter to cut out circles. These will become the perfect size for folding and filling.

Step 3: Fill and Seal

Place a generous spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each dough circle. Moisten the edges with water, fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, and press edges firmly to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative and tight seal that prevents leaks.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each one lightly with beaten egg wash to give them a lovely golden browning. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until beautifully crisp and golden.

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef Empanadas

• Drain Excess Fat: After browning the beef, drain off any fat to keep the filling from becoming greasy.
• Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can cause the dough to burst open during baking.
• Chill Before Baking: Refrigerate assembled empanadas for 15 minutes to help them hold their shape in the oven.
• Test One First: Bake a single empanada initially to check seasoning and adjust before baking the whole batch.
• Double Up: Make a large batch and freeze extras for quick, tasty meals anytime.

How to Serve Ground Beef Empanadas

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or parsley on top just before serving to add a fresh, herbaceous aroma. A wedge of lime on the side provides a bright citrus contrast that elevates the overall flavor.

Side Dishes

Serve Ground Beef Empanadas alongside a simple green salad or a fresh tomato salsa for a light accompaniment. For a heartier meal, Mexican rice or refried beans complement the flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange empanadas on a wooden board with small bowls of chimichurri, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping. This makes for a lively, interactive eating experience perfect for gatherings and parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and tasty.

Freezing

Place unbaked empanadas on a lined baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be baked straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

Reheat baked empanadas in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to preserve the crispy texture—avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use homemade dough for Ground Beef Empanadas?

Absolutely! Homemade dough can provide an even more delicious and flaky crust, and it’s a fun option if you want to control every element of your empanadas.

Are Ground Beef Empanadas spicy?

Not necessarily, but you can easily adjust the spice level by adding chili powder, jalapeños, or cayenne pepper to the filling if you prefer a bit of heat.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, baking Ground Beef Empanadas is a healthier alternative that still produces a crispy, golden result without the mess of frying.

How do I prevent the dough from becoming soggy?

Make sure to drain the cooked beef filling well and chill the filled empanadas before baking to help the dough stay crisp.

Can I prepare Ground Beef Empanadas in advance?

Definitely, these empanadas freeze very well and bake beautifully straight from the freezer, making them ideal for meal prepping and quick meals.

Final Thoughts

Once you try these Ground Beef Empanadas, you’ll be hooked on their crispy texture and deliciously seasoned filling. They are incredibly satisfying and versatile, perfect for sharing or enjoying any time you want a flavorful, homemade treat. Go ahead and give this recipe a whirl—you’ll love every bite and the smiles it brings to your table!

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