Ground Beef Empanadas are golden, crispy pastries filled with a savory ground beef mixture, often seasoned with a mix of spices and vegetables. These hand-held treats are perfect for a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. They’re flavorful and satisfying, with the perfect balance of crunchy dough and savory filling. 🌮🥩✨
🕒 Time: 30 minutes prep + 15–20 minutes baking
🍽 Serves: 4–6
🌟 Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 500g (1 lb) ground beef
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 bell pepper (chopped)
- 1/2 cup green olives (pitted and chopped)
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional, for a sweet twist)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)
For the Dough:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1/4 cup cold water (adjust as needed)
🔪 Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Cut the cold butter into the flour using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the cold water, mixing until a dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time.
- Once the dough is smooth, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 20-30 minutes.
- Make the Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking for 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through.
- Stir in the chopped green olives, raisins (if using), cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the beef broth and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Stir in the chopped cilantro or parsley (if using).
- Assemble the Empanadas:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick.
- Use a round cutter (such as a drinking glass) to cut out circles of dough, about 4-5 inches in diameter.
- Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the beef filling onto the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and press the edges together tightly to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative look.
- Bake the Empanadas:
- Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the empanadas for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve:
- Let the empanadas cool slightly before serving.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce like salsa, sour cream, or a chimichurri sauce.
🍽️ Perfect Pairings:
- Salsa or guacamole 🥑
- A fresh side salad 🥗
- Pickled vegetables 🥒
- A cold drink like iced tea or lemonade 🍹
💡 Tips:
- For a twist: Add diced potatoes or carrots to the beef filling for extra texture and flavor.
- Make ahead: You can freeze the unbaked empanadas for later. Simply arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and transfer to a bag. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- For the dough: If you prefer, you can use store-bought empanada dough for a quicker option.
Ground Beef Empanadas = crispy, golden, and bursting with savory flavors. Perfect for any occasion! 🥟🥩✨
Would you like to try a vegetarian filling with lentils or cheese instead of beef? 🍄
