Savory Ground Beef Empanadas: A Foolproof Homemade Recipe

Crafting a delightful ground beef empanada brings joy to any kitchen adventure.

Flaky pastry wraps around seasoned meat, creating a handheld delight that sparks conversation.

Argentinian and Chilean culinary traditions inspire this simple yet satisfying dish.

Crispy edges and rich filling promise a meal that feels like a warm embrace.

Home cooks can master these savory pockets with just a few basic ingredients.

Spices dance through the meat, adding depth and excitement to every bite.

You’ll find this recipe becomes an instant favorite that connects people through shared flavor.

Prepare to experience a culinary journey that transforms an ordinary meal into something truly memorable.

Tips For Flaky Homemade Ground Beef Empanada

• Drain excess fat completely to prevent soggy empanadas and ensure a crispy texture.
• Experiment with spice levels by adjusting chili powder or adding red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Cool beef filling thoroughly before assembling to prevent dough from becoming soggy and maintain structural integrity.
• For gluten-free option, use alternative dough made from corn or almond flour to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Freeze uncooked empanadas on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags for quick future meals, adding 5-7 minutes to baking time when cooking from frozen.

Fun Twists On Ground Beef Empanada

• Vegetarian Empanada Swap: Replace ground beef with black beans, lentils, or crumbled tofu for a plant-based protein alternative that maintains the classic empanada texture and flavor profile.
• Spicy Chorizo Kick: Substitute ground beef with spicy chorizo sausage, adding a bold, smoky flavor and extra heat to the traditional empanada filling.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free empanada dough made from corn flour or almond flour, ensuring those with wheat sensitivities can enjoy this delicious pastry without compromising taste or texture.
• Chicken Mediterranean Remix: Swap ground beef for ground chicken mixed with feta cheese, spinach, and oregano, creating a lighter Mediterranean-inspired empanada variation with fresh, bright flavors.

What To Serve With Ground Beef Empanada

• Party Platter Paradise: Arrange empanadas on a large wooden board with small dipping sauce bowls, creating an interactive and colorful spread that invites guests to grab and enjoy.
• Picnic Perfect Pocket: Pack cooled empanadas in a portable container for outdoor adventures, making them an ideal handheld meal that travels well and stays delicious.
• Game Day Crowd-Pleaser: Slice empanadas into smaller bite-sized pieces, serving them as appetizers with toothpicks for easy munching during sports events or casual gatherings.
• Family Fiesta Feast: Pair empanadas with a fresh side salad and rice, transforming them from a simple snack into a complete, satisfying meal that everyone will love.

How To Store Ground Beef Empanada

• Refrigerate leftover empanadas in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Wrap individual empanadas in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before storing to keep them from drying out and preserve their texture.
• Freeze uncooked or cooked empanadas for long-term storage, placing them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag with parchment paper between layers.

FAQs

• Are empanadas traditionally from a specific country?

Empanadas originated in Galicia, Spain, but they are now popular across Latin America, especially in Argentina, Chile, and Colombia. Each region has its own unique filling and style.

• Can I make empanadas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the empanadas in advance. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking or freezing. If freezing, place them on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.

• What type of dough works best for empanadas?

Traditional empanada dough is a simple pastry made with flour, water, salt, and sometimes butter or lard. You can use premade dough discs from the grocery store or make your own from scratch for a more authentic experience.

Why Homemade Ground Beef Empanada Rocks

Savor Hearty Home Cooking: Ground beef empanadas offer a delightful culinary adventure for food lovers.

• Create Comfort Quickly: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for cooks of all skill levels, allowing anyone to master delicious Latin American cuisine without stress.
• Customize Your Flavor: Flexible recipe lets you swap ingredients, add personal touches like different spices or vegetables, and adapt to dietary preferences while maintaining the classic empanada essence.
• Crowd-Pleasing Meal: These handheld delights work wonderfully for family dinners, potlucks, game nights, or casual gatherings, satisfying both kids and adults with their tasty, portable format and rich, savory filling.

Ingredients For Homemade Ground Beef Empanada

• Ground Beef: A classic protein that provides rich flavor and hearty texture for the empanada filling.

• Onion, Bell Pepper, Garlic: These vegetables create a flavorful foundation and add depth to the ground beef mixture.

• Cumin, Paprika, Chili Powder, Oregano, Salt, Pepper: A blend of spices that enhances the savory profile of the beef filling.

• Tomato Sauce, Olives: These ingredients add moisture and a tangy complexity to the empanada filling.

• Empanada Dough Discs: A soft pastry that wraps and holds the flavorful beef mixture.
• Egg, Water: Creates a golden, crispy exterior when brushed on the empanadas before baking or frying.

• Salsa, Sour Cream, Chimichurri: Delicious dipping sauces that complement the empanadas.

How To Make Homemade Ground Beef Empanada

Step 1: Sizzle the Aromatics

• Diced onions
• Chopped bell peppers
• Minced garlic

Saute until vegetables become soft and fragrant, creating a delicious base for your filling.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until completely browned. Break the meat into small crumbles while cooking.

Drain excess fat to keep the filling light and flavorful.

Step 3: Spice It Up

• Cumin
• Paprika
• Chili powder
• Oregano
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir thoroughly to coat the beef with aromatic seasonings.

Step 4: Create Flavor Depth

Pour in tomato sauce and mix in chopped olives. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing all flavors to meld together beautifully.

Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 5: Shape the Empanadas

Preheat oven to 375°F.

Place empanada dough discs on a clean surface. Spoon beef mixture into the center of each disc.

Fold dough over to create a half-moon shape. Crimp edges with a fork to seal completely.

Step 6: Golden Finish

Whisk an egg with water. Brush egg wash over each empanada to create a gorgeous golden crust.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Arrange empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown and become crispy.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Plate your hot empanadas with favorite dipping sauces.

Delicious Homemade Ground Beef Empanada Recipe

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4.6 from 29 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Delicious ground beef empanadas blend Argentine culinary traditions with hearty flavors. Home cooks discover a simple yet satisfying pastry packed with seasoned meat and classic spices that create an irresistible meal you’ll crave again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat Filling:

• 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) diced bell pepper

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup (60 ml) tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) green olives, chopped
• 1 package empanada dough discs
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

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Instructions

1. Craft the flavor-packed filling by sautéing diced onions and garlic in a skillet over medium heat until translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
2. Incorporate ground beef, cooking until thoroughly browned and crumbled, ensuring no pink remains visible.
3. Infuse the meat with aromatic spices including cumin, paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper, creating a robust flavor profile.
4. Pour in tomato sauce and fold in chopped olives, allowing the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes to meld the seasonings.
5. Remove filling from heat and let it cool slightly to prevent dough from becoming soggy.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) while preparing the empanada assembly station.
7. Position each dough disc on a clean surface, carefully spooning the seasoned beef mixture into the center.
8. Fold the dough over the filling, creating a distinctive half-moon shape, and secure edges by pressing firmly with a fork.
9. Prepare an egg wash by whisking an egg with water, then delicately brush the surface of each empanada for a golden, glossy finish.
10. Arrange empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the exterior turns a rich, crispy golden brown.
12. Alternatively, for a crisp fried version, submerge in hot oil for 2-3 minutes per side until deep golden.
13. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil and maintain crispiness.
14. Serve immediately alongside complementary dipping sauces like zesty salsa, creamy sour cream, or tangy chimichurri.

Notes

• Customize the filling by adding diced potatoes or corn for extra texture and flavor complexity.
• Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for lighter or vegetarian versions.
• Prepare empanada dough from scratch or use store-bought pastry to save time, ensuring consistent results.
• Freeze uncooked empanadas for future quick meals by placing them on a baking sheet, freezing until solid, then storing in freezer bags for up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Latin American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 280 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 420 mg
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 15 g
• Cholesterol: 65 mg