If you have a craving for something savory, warm, and simply irresistible, this Beef Empanadas Recipe is exactly what you need. These delightful pastries bring together a rich, spiced ground beef filling wrapped in a beautifully flaky dough that bakes up golden and crisp every time. Whether you’re entertaining friends, preparing a family dinner, or looking for a snack with a Latin flair, these empanadas are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The blend of tender beef, aromatic spices, and optional olives makes for a complex flavor profile that’s as comforting as it is exciting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this dish lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, from the robust ground beef to the fragrant garlic and paprika, culminating in a symphony of flavors and textures that make these empanadas unforgettable.

Olive oil: Used to gently sauté the onions and garlic, adding a subtle richness.
Ground beef (1/2 pound): The hearty filling base, providing protein and savory depth.
Small onion (finely chopped): Adds sweetness and moisture, balancing the spices.
Garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the filling with a warm, aromatic punch.
Tomato sauce (1/4 cup): Brings a slight acidity and moist texture to the beef mixture.
Ground cumin (1/2 teaspoon): Offers a smoky earthiness that complements the meat.
Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances depth and adds a gentle smoky note.
Chili powder (1/4 teaspoon): Provides subtle heat without overpowering the other flavors.
Ground black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just a hint of spice and complexity.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for balancing and enhancing all flavors in the filling.
Green olives (1/4 cup, chopped, optional): Lend a briny, tangy accent that brightens each bite.
Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Gives a fresh, herbaceous finish.
Empanada dough discs: The golden, flaky crust that encases the filling, or make your own for a personal touch.
Egg (beaten, for egg wash): Ensures a beautiful golden sheen on your baked empanadas.

How to Make Beef Empanadas Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Having your mise en place ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and turn translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, filling your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.

Step 3: Brown the Beef and Build Flavor

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Let it brown evenly, which intensifies the flavor and adds a slight caramelization. Once browned, stir in the tomato sauce along with cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and ground black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 3 to 5 minutes to marry all the flavors.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches to the Filling

Once the meat mixture has thickened slightly, fold in the chopped green olives and fresh parsley. These ingredients add bursts of briny brightness and fresh herb notes, elevating the filling to new heights. Let the mixture cool slightly before assembling to make handling easier.

Step 5: Assemble the Empanadas

Place a spoonful of the cooled filling onto the center of each empanada dough disc. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, then press the edges firmly with a fork to seal them perfectly, ensuring all that delicious filling stays inside during baking.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Arrange the empanadas on your prepared baking sheet and brush their tops with the beaten egg. This step is a game changer for that beautiful golden color. Bake them in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until they are perfectly golden brown and irresistibly flaky.

How to Serve Beef Empanadas Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of tangy sour cream can enhance the presentation and flavor. Alternatively, a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the empanadas right before serving adds a delightful zest that complements the savory meat filling beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve your baked delights alongside a crisp green salad or a vibrant tomato and avocado salsa for balance and freshness. A side of black beans or Spanish rice also makes a wonderful pairing, turning this snack into a fulfilling meal with authentic Latin American vibes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, create a dipping station featuring sauces like chimichurri, spicy chipotle mayo, or a classic guacamole. Serve the empanadas on a wooden board with colorful napkins and fresh herbs scattered around—it’s sure to impress your guests and invite them to dig right in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover empanadas keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them cold preserves their savory flavor and ensures the dough doesn’t become soggy.

Freezing

You can prepare these empanadas ahead of time by assembling them and freezing them unbaked on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time—perfect for busy days or unexpected guests.

Reheating

To restore their crispness, reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes rather than using a microwave. This method keeps the crust flaky and the filling warm and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well with the spices in this recipe. Just be mindful that it cooks faster and tends to be a bit drier, so you might want to add a touch more tomato sauce or olive oil to keep the filling moist.

Do I have to use empanada dough discs?

Not at all! You can use homemade dough, store-bought pie crust, or even puff pastry if you want to experiment. Each will give a slightly different texture but still taste fantastic. Just make sure to seal the edges well to avoid leaks.

Are these empanadas suitable for freezing after baking?

They freeze best before baking. If you freeze them after baking, the crust might lose some of its crispness when thawed. If you do freeze baked empanadas, reheat them in the oven to help crisp the crust.

Can I add cheese to the filling?

Definitely! A little shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar mixed in with the beef can add a lovely melty texture. Just add it after you remove the filling from heat and let it melt gradually.

How spicy are these empanadas?

The chili powder here is mild and used sparingly to add just a hint of warmth, not overpowering heat. Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste, adding more chili or even hot sauce if you want it spicier.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about homemade empanadas, and this Beef Empanadas Recipe brings that charm right into your kitchen. Its perfect balance of savory, spice, and flaky dough makes it a dish to return to again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the satisfying hands-on experience of crafting these delicious Latin treats. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a beloved staple in your meal rotation!