Easy Homemade Ground Beef Empanada Recipe
You've probably tasted empanadas at a restaurant or event, but have you ever thought about making them yourself? Creating a batch of easy homemade ground beef empanadas isn't as intimidating as it might seem. You'll start by browning ground beef with onions and garlic, and then bring it all together with spices and a touch of tomato paste. The twist comes with adding olives, giving the filling an unexpected depth. Once you've wrapped this savory mix in dough, the magic happens in the oven. Curious about how to achieve that perfect golden crust? Let's explore the final steps.
Recipe
Making homemade ground beef empanadas is a delightful culinary experience that brings the flavors of Spanish and Latin American cuisines right to your kitchen. These savory pastries are perfect for any occasion, whether you're looking to serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main course. The key to a delicious empanada lies in its filling and dough. This recipe will guide you step-by-step to prepare a flavorful ground beef filling and a tender dough that encases it perfectly.
The filling for these empanadas consists of ground beef, aromatic spices, and a touch of olives for a unique flavor twist. The combination of cumin, paprika, and garlic provides a rich and satisfying taste that complements the beef beautifully. To achieve the perfect texture, make certain to simmer the filling until it thickens slightly. Once your filling is ready, all that's left is to encase it in the empanada dough and bake until golden brown. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup olives, chopped
- 1 package refrigerated empanada dough
- 1 egg, beaten
To prepare your ground beef empanadas, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, continuing to sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper, guaranteeing the spices coat the beef evenly. Add the tomato paste and beef broth, stirring to combine, and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Fold in the chopped olives and remove from heat, allowing the filling to cool a bit.
Roll out the empanada dough and cut into circles. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture onto each circle, fold over to form a half-moon shape, and seal the edges with a fork. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet, brush the tops with the beaten egg, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
For best results, confirm that your filling is completely cooled before using it to fill the dough. This prevents the dough from becoming too moist and breaking. Feel free to personalize the filling with additional ingredients like cheese or bell peppers to suit your taste.
If you have leftover filling, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days and used in other dishes like tacos or stuffed peppers. Serve your empanadas with a side of chimichurri sauce or salsa for an added burst of flavor. Enjoy!
Cooking Steps
Let's jump right into the cooking steps, starting with preheating your oven to 375°F—don't forget, it's like giving the oven a warm hug before the empanadas arrive!
Next, grab a large skillet and brown the ground beef with onions until they're a delightful golden duo.
Once that's done, sprinkle in your spices, let the beef soak up the flavors, add tomato paste, simmer with a splash of beef broth, and toss in those olives for a little extra tang before letting it cool off for its grand empanada entrance.
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 375°F
Preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) is your first step towards baking perfectly golden empanadas. Setting the temperature right is like giving your empanadas a warm hug, ensuring they bake evenly and achieve that delightful crispiness.
So, go ahead, twist that dial, and let your oven work its magic. While it warms up, you can take a deep breath and imagine the delicious aroma that will soon fill your kitchen.
A little tip: checking your oven's actual temperature with an oven thermometer can save you from any underbaked surprises. It's an easy way to make sure your empanadas turn out just right.
Plus, it's a great excuse to show off your fancy kitchen gadgets. Ready? Let's get those empanadas baking!
Step 2. Brown Beef With Onions
As you heat your skillet over medium heat, the anticipation builds for the savory filling to come. Toss in the ground beef and let the sizzle serenade you—it's music to any cook's ears.
Break it up with a spoon, ensuring it cooks evenly and doesn't resemble a beef boulder. Once the beef starts browning, add your chopped onion.
Watch as it transforms from a humble vegetable into a golden, aromatic delight, mingling with the meat. Stir occasionally, letting the onions soften and the flavors meld.
If you're feeling fancy, give the pan a little shake—just don't send beef flying! This step sets the stage for a delicious filling, making your empanadas truly irresistible.
Step 3. Add Spices to Beef Mixture
With the beef and onions perfectly browned, it's time to elevate your filling with some aromatic spices.
Grab your cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper, and sprinkle them over the sizzling beef. Stir them in like you're mixing a magic potion, making sure every morsel is well-coated.
These spices don't just add flavor—they take your beef to the next level of deliciousness. Don't rush; let the spices work their charm for a minute or two.
As the aroma fills your kitchen, you might feel like a culinary wizard. Remember, this step is essential for infusing the beef with depth and warmth.
It's like giving your beef mixture a personality makeover, turning it from plain to absolutely irresistible.
Step 4. Simmer With Tomato Paste
Now that your spices have mingled with the beef, it's time to introduce the tomato paste and beef broth into the mix. Stir them in, watching the rich red color coat everything beautifully.
Let it simmer on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together like a perfect dance team. You'll want to keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking—unless you're aiming for a beefy sculpture at the bottom of your pan!
As it simmers, the mixture will thicken slightly, creating a robust base for your empanadas. This step is essential for locking in flavor, so resist the urge to rush.
Step 5. Add Olives and Cool Mixture
Next, toss in the chopped olives and stir them into the mixture, ensuring they're evenly distributed throughout.
You'll notice they add a delightful pop of color and flavor, enhancing the beef filling.
Once the olives are mixed in, it's time to let the concoction cool a bit. This step is essential, so don't rush it—nobody wants a soggy empanada!
Letting the mixture cool prevents the dough from becoming too moist and fragile. A good tip is to spread the beef mixture on a baking sheet or use a shallow dish to speed up the cooling process.
While waiting, you can take a quick break or start prepping the empanada dough. Your patience will pay off when you bite into that perfect pastry!
Final Thoughts
Crafting your own ground beef empanadas at home can be a truly rewarding experience.
You've tackled the filling, nailed the dough, and now you're ready to enjoy these golden treats.
The aroma of spices and beef wafting through your kitchen is a promise of deliciousness to come.
Embrace the process and don't stress about perfection—it's all about having fun and enjoying the flavors.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Freeze the Empanadas Before Baking Them?
Yes, you can freeze the empanadas before baking them. Just place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding extra time.
What Type of Olives Work Best for the Filling?
You'll want to use green olives for the filling. They add a nice briny flavor that complements the beef perfectly. Chop them finely to distribute the taste evenly throughout the empanadas. Kalamata olives work well too if preferred.
Can I Use Whole Wheat Dough Instead of Regular Dough?
Yes, you can definitely use whole wheat dough instead of regular dough. It'll give the empanadas a nuttier flavor and a slightly denser texture. Just make sure to roll it thin so it cooks evenly. Enjoy!
How Can I Make the Empanadas Spicier?
To spice up your empanadas, add chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers to the filling. You can also mix in some cayenne pepper or chili powder. Adjust the spice level to your liking for a fiery kick.
Are There Any Vegetarian Alternatives for the Ground Beef Filling?
Consider using mushrooms, lentils, or black beans as a vegetarian alternative for the filling. Sauté them with onions, garlic, and spices for flavor. Add veggies like bell peppers or spinach to enhance texture and taste.
