Easy Beef Empanada Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion, look no further than these Easy Beef Empanadas. Empanadas are a popular comfort food in many cultures, known for their flaky crust and savory filling. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or need a fun appetizer for a party, these empanadas are sure to impress. This recipe is easy to follow, requires minimal prep work, and delivers delicious results every time. Let’s dive into the details so you can start making these at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Beef Empanada Recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights or special gatherings because it’s:

• Quick and Convenient: Using pre-made pie crust saves time without sacrificing flavor.
• Customizable: You can adjust the filling with different vegetables, spices, or cheeses to suit your tastes.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love these hand-held treats, making them perfect for everyone.

Whether you’re new to making empanadas or a seasoned pro, this recipe will give you delicious results in no time.

Ingredients for Easy Beef Empanadas

To make these tasty empanadas, here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 package of pre-made pie crust (2 rolls)
• 1 pound of lean ground beef – I recommend using 90% lean, but 80% will work; just be sure to drain the fat.
• 1/4 cup diced yellow onion
• 1/2 medium bell pepper, diced – Any color works, but red or green adds a nice pop of color.
• 1 teaspoon cumin – For a warm, earthy flavor.
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic – Fresh or jarred will work.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon chili powder – Adds a bit of mild heat.
• 1 cup Mexican blended cheese – A mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and other cheeses works great.
• 1 egg – For brushing the tops to get a golden finish.

This ingredient list is simple yet flavorful, and most of the items are likely already in your kitchen.

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Prepare a cookie sheet with a baking mat, parchment paper, or non-stick foil to prevent sticking.

2. Cook the Ground Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, diced onions, and bell pepper together. Stir occasionally until the beef is browned and fully cooked, the onions are translucent, and the peppers are soft. This should take about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

3. Season the Filling

Once the beef is cooked, add cumin, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and chili powder to the mixture. Stir well and let the spices cook into the beef for an additional 2 minutes. This step helps intensify the flavors.

4. Prepare the Pie Crust Circles

Roll out your pre-made pie crusts on a clean surface. Using a bowl that’s about the size of a cereal bowl, cut out circles. You should be able to get about three circles from each crust. Gather the leftover dough, roll it out, and cut additional circles until all the dough is used—this usually makes around 8 empanadas.

5. Assemble the Empanadas

Lay each pie crust circle on the prepared cookie sheet. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the beef mixture into the center of each circle, then sprinkle 1 tablespoon of cheese on top.

6. Seal the Empanadas

Fold the pie crust in half over the filling, forming a half-moon shape. Use a fork to press down the edges, sealing the empanada tightly to ensure no filling escapes during baking.

7. Brush with Egg Wash

Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the top of each empanada. This will help them turn golden brown while baking.

8. Bake and Serve

Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Pair with your favorite salsa, guacamole, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfect Empanadas

• Don’t overfill: It can be tempting to add more filling, but overstuffing can cause the empanadas to burst open while baking.
• Seal properly: Press the edges down firmly with a fork to avoid leaks.
• Brush with egg: This ensures a golden, crispy exterior.

Flavor Variations and Ingredient Swaps

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas to change things up:

• Swap the beef: Try using ground chicken, turkey, or even a vegetarian option like black beans.
• Add veggies: Diced potatoes, corn, or peas can give the filling more texture and flavor.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chipotle powder for a bit more heat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the beef: Cook the beef until just browned to avoid drying it out.
• Skipping the egg wash: This is essential for giving the empanadas a nice, golden crust.
• Not draining the fat: If using a higher fat content beef, make sure to drain off the excess fat to prevent soggy empanadas.

How to Serve Beef Empanadas

These empanadas are perfect on their own, but you can elevate your meal with a few side dishes:

• Guacamole: The creamy texture pairs wonderfully with the crispy empanada crust.
• Fresh salsa: A zesty salsa adds a burst of freshness.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy dressing complements the savory filling.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe:

• Large skillet: For cooking the beef mixture.
• Rolling pin: To roll out the pie crust.
• Baking sheet: To bake the empanadas.
• Pastry brush: For applying the egg wash.
• Fork: To seal the empanadas.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

• Refrigerate: Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Place baked empanadas in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Reheat empanadas in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.

FAQ: Your Empanada Questions Answered

Can I make these empanadas ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the empanadas and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze them unbaked and pop them in the oven directly from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I use a different type of dough?

Absolutely! While pie crust is easy and convenient, you can also use homemade empanada dough, puff pastry, or even crescent roll dough for a different texture.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making these delicious and easy beef empanadas! If you try this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family, and let us know how it turned out in the comments. Be sure to subscribe to our blog for more mouthwatering recipes like this one!

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