If you're looking for a simple yet delicious snack or meal to make at home, you can’t go wrong with homemade ground beef empanadas! These crispy, golden pockets of flavor are packed with seasoned beef and are perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a gathering, need a quick weeknight meal, or just craving something savory, this easy-to-follow recipe will help you make mouthwatering empanadas that everyone will love. Keep reading for all the details on how to make these delightful treats, along with tips and tricks to make the process even smoother.

What Are Empanadas?

Empanadas are a type of pastry that originated in Spain but have since become popular in many countries, especially in Latin America. They consist of dough that is filled with a variety of ingredients, such as meats, vegetables, and cheese, before being baked or fried. Ground beef empanadas are one of the most common versions, with a savory filling of seasoned beef, onions, and spices, wrapped in a flaky, golden crust.

Empanadas are incredibly versatile and can be made with different fillings and even doughs, depending on personal preferences or regional traditions. The beauty of ground beef empanadas lies in their simplicity and the fact that you can easily modify them to suit your taste.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Empanadas

Before we dive into the cooking process, let's make sure we have all the necessary ingredients for making ground beef empanadas. Here's a comprehensive list:

For the Dough:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1 egg
⅓ cup cold water
1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider)

For the Filling:

1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
½ teaspoon oregano
½ teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons tomato paste
¼ cup green olives, chopped (optional)
1 hard-boiled egg, chopped (optional)
¼ cup raisins (optional, for a sweet-savory twist)

For Assembly:

1 egg (for egg wash)
Flour for dusting

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about empanadas is how adaptable they are. Whether you’re trying to make the recipe healthier, cater to dietary restrictions, or just experiment with flavors, here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

Meat Substitutes: If you don’t eat beef or want to try something different, ground chicken, turkey, or pork can be used instead. You could even make vegetarian empanadas by swapping the meat for beans, lentils, or mushrooms.
Dough Options: If you're short on time or prefer convenience, you can use store-bought puff pastry or pie dough instead of making the dough from scratch. It may not be as authentic, but it still delivers delicious results.
Cheese Add-Ins: Feel free to add shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar to the filling for an extra gooey surprise.
Spices and Herbs: For a different flavor profile, try adding chopped fresh cilantro, cayenne pepper for heat, or smoked paprika for a deeper smoky taste.
Sweet or Savory: Some people enjoy adding a touch of sweetness by incorporating raisins, which complement the savory flavors of the beef. You can leave these out if you prefer a purely savory filling.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
Add the chilled butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
In a separate small bowl, whisk the egg, water, and vinegar together.
Slowly add the wet ingredients to the flour mixture, stirring until the dough comes together.
Knead the dough gently on a floured surface until smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to rest.

2. Make the Filling:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, paprika, oregano, chili powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
If you’re using optional ingredients like olives, chopped hard-boiled eggs, or raisins, stir them in now.
Let the filling cool slightly before assembling the empanadas.

3. Assemble the Empanadas:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ⅛-inch thickness.
Using a round cutter or a glass, cut out circles from the dough (about 4-5 inches in diameter).
Place a tablespoon of the beef filling in the center of each dough circle.
Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, pressing the edges together to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork or twist them to create a decorative edge.
Transfer the empanadas to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Brush each empanada with the egg wash (whisk one egg with a tablespoon of water).

4. Bake the Empanadas:

Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While empanadas are relatively easy to make, there are a few common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Avoid these pitfalls for the best empanadas:

Overfilling: Be careful not to add too much filling to the dough, as it can cause the empanadas to burst open during baking.
Dough Too Thick/Thin: Rolling out the dough too thick can make the empanadas heavy and doughy, while too thin can lead to tearing. Aim for about ⅛-inch thickness.
Skipping the Chill Time: Letting the dough rest in the refrigerator is crucial for a tender, flaky crust. Don’t skip this step!
Undercooking the Filling: Make sure your filling ingredients, especially the onions and beef, are fully cooked and seasoned before assembling the empanadas.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Empanadas are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but their versatility makes them suitable for any meal or occasion. You can serve them as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course with a side salad or dipping sauce. Here are some tips on how to serve and present your homemade ground beef empanadas:

How to Serve Ground Beef Empanadas:

On Their Own: Serve the empanadas as-is for a quick snack or meal. They’re flavorful enough to stand alone!
With Dipping Sauces: Offer an array of dipping sauces to complement the empanadas, such as chimichurri, salsa, or a garlic aioli.
As Part of a Larger Meal: Pair the empanadas with a side of rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a more filling meal.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Empanadas:

Arrange the empanadas on a large platter, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
For a casual gathering, serve them in a basket lined with a colorful napkin.
You can also drizzle them with a bit of chimichurri sauce for a restaurant-style presentation.

Ground Beef Empanada Recipe Tips

Freezing Instructions: Empanadas freeze beautifully! You can freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, pop them in the oven directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Make Ahead: The filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to two days, making assembly quick and easy.
Egg Wash for Shine: Don’t forget to brush the empanadas with egg wash before baking for a beautiful golden sheen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Fry Empanadas Instead of Baking Them?

Yes! If you prefer fried empanadas, heat oil in a deep skillet and fry them until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.

How Do I Store Leftover Empanadas?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain crispness.

Can I Make the Dough in Advance?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Homemade ground beef empanadas are a delicious and satisfying treat that can be enjoyed by everyone. With a flaky, buttery crust and a flavorful beef filling, these empanadas are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a party, the recipe is simple, versatile, and easily adaptable to suit your tastes. Try this easy recipe, and you’ll soon have a batch of golden, crispy empanadas that will disappear in no time! Don’t forget to experiment with fillings and variations to create your own signature empanada recipe.