The aroma of freshly baked beef empanadas wafts through the air, teasing your senses with a promise of flaky pastry and savory filling. Each bite reveals a melody of flavors that dance on your palate, making it impossible to resist reaching for just one more.
Imagine gathering around the dinner table, laughter ringing out as you sink your teeth into these golden pockets of joy, transporting you to a cozy kitchen filled with warmth and love. These beef empanadas are not just food; they are memories waiting to be created.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This beef empanadas recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for special occasions
- The golden crust offers a satisfying crunch that complements the rich, flavorful filling
- You can easily customize the filling with your favorite ingredients or leftovers
- Perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a family meal
Sharing these delightful morsels at our family gatherings always brings smiles and compliments from everyone around the table.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a juicy filling without excess grease. Feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken if preferred.
- Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth; choose yellow onions for best results.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves minced finely will elevate the flavor profile dramatically; don’t skimp on this one!
- Cumin: Ground cumin imparts a warm, earthy tone that’s essential in Latin American cuisine—trust me; it’s a must-have!
- Paprika: Sweet or smoked paprika enhances the color and adds a subtle depth—use whichever you prefer.
- Empanada Dough: You can make this from scratch or buy pre-made dough to save time—both options work beautifully.
- Egg Wash: A mixture of beaten egg and water helps achieve that golden-brown shine on the pastry.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Filling: Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks until no pink remains. The aroma will begin to fill your kitchen.
Add Aromatics and Spices: Stir in chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until softened—about 5 minutes—and fragrant. Add cumin and paprika, blending well for an additional minute until everything is coated in deliciousness.
Cool Down the Filling: Once everything is cooked through, remove from heat and let it cool slightly. This prevents soggy dough when we assemble our empanadas—no one wants that!
Roll Out Your Dough: If using homemade dough, roll it out on a floured surface until about 1/8-inch thick. For store-bought dough, simply unroll it carefully to avoid cracks.
Fill and Fold Empanadas: Place about 1 tablespoon of filling onto one side of each dough circle. Fold over the other side to create a half-moon shape and press edges firmly with fingers to seal.
Brush with Egg Wash & Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush tops with egg wash before popping them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Enjoy the aroma filling your home as you eagerly await those delicious bites!
With every step taken together in this culinary journey, you’re not just making food; you’re crafting memories filled with laughter, love, and maybe even a little bit of flour on your cheek!
You Must Know
- The beef empanadas recipe brings together crispy dough and hearty filling, creating a symphony of flavors
- With the right spices, you can elevate your dish into a comforting experience that warms the heart and soul
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the filling while the dough chills. Once the filling is ready, roll out the dough, cut circles, fill them, and seal. Fry or bake until golden brown for the best texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or chicken. Add jalapeños for a spicy kick or cheese for extra creaminess. Personalizing your empanadas can make each batch uniquely delicious.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in an oven at 350°F until heated through for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use cold ingredients for flaky dough; this makes a world of difference in texture
- Don’t overfill your empanadas; otherwise, they’ll burst during cooking
- Lastly, let them cool slightly before serving to avoid molten lava filling incidents
The first time I made these beef empanadas, my friends devoured them faster than I could keep up! They begged me for the recipe, claiming it was better than any takeout.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought dough for this beef empanadas recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought dough saves time and still yields delicious results.
What can I serve with beef empanadas?
Serve them with chimichurri sauce or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How do I know when my empanadas are done?
Look for a golden-brown color and a crispy texture indicating they’re perfectly cooked.
