Easy Homemade Ground Beef Empanada Recipe

There’s something truly magical about biting into a perfectly golden empanada – that satisfying crunch giving way to a savory, spiced filling that warms you from the inside out. These Easy Homemade Ground Beef Empanadas bring the authentic flavors of Latin America right to your kitchen, using simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.

I’ve perfected this recipe through countless batches, and I’m excited to share it with you. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner, or simply craving comfort food, these empanadas deliver every time. Let’s dive into creating these delicious hand pies that will have everyone asking for seconds!

What are Ground Beef Empanadas?

Ground beef empanadas are traditional Latin American pastries consisting of a tender, flaky pastry dough wrapped around a seasoned ground beef filling. These half-moon shaped pockets are typically baked or fried until golden brown, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

The beauty of empanadas lies in their versatility and portability. They originated in Spain but have become beloved throughout Latin America, with each region adding its own unique twist to the filling and preparation method. The ground beef version is particularly popular because it’s hearty, affordable, and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients List for Easy Ground Beef Empanadas

For the Empanada Dough:

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ cup cold butter, cut into small cubes
• 1 large egg
• ⅓ cup cold water
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar

For the Ground Beef Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend works best)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• ¼ cup beef broth
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• ¼ cup green olives, chopped (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

For Assembly:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon water

How to Make Easy Ground Beef Empanadas: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating perfect empanadas is easier than you might think. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your empanadas turn out beautifully every time:

1. Prepare the Empanada Dough:

Start by making the dough, as it needs time to rest. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Create a well in the center and add the egg, cold water, and vinegar. Mix everything together until a dough forms. Don’t overwork it – you want the dough to be smooth but not tough. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Make the Ground Beef Filling:

While the dough chills, prepare your filling. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.

Add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.

3. Season the Filling:

Add the cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, chili powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to develop the flavors.

Pour in the beef broth and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped hard-boiled eggs, olives (if using), and fresh cilantro. Let the filling cool completely before assembling the empanadas.

4. Roll and Cut the Dough:

Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into 12-15 equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a circle about 5-6 inches in diameter. You can also use a large round cookie cutter or small plate as a guide.

5. Assemble the Empanadas:

Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the cooled filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the empanadas to burst during baking.

Brush the edges of the dough with water, then fold the circle in half to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together, then crimp with a fork to seal completely. This step is crucial for preventing the filling from leaking out.

6. Bake the Empanadas:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the assembled empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Mix the beaten egg with 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash, then brush each empanada with this mixture for a beautiful golden color.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy. Let them cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about empanadas is how adaptable they are. Here are some variations you can try:

• Meat Alternatives: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, pork, or chicken for different flavors. You can also use a combination of meats.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or seasoned black beans.
• Cheese Addition: Add ½ cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco) to the filling for extra richness.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing the cayenne pepper and chili powder. Add jalapeños for extra kick.
• Dough Alternatives: Use store-bought empanada discs or pie crust if you’re short on time, though homemade dough tastes much better.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your empanadas turn out perfectly:

• Overfilling: Too much filling will cause the empanadas to burst open during baking. Stick to 2-3 tablespoons per empanada.
• Hot Filling: Never assemble empanadas with hot filling, as it will make the dough soggy and difficult to work with.
• Poor Sealing: Make sure to press and crimp the edges firmly. Loose seals will result in filling leaking out during baking.
• Skipping the Egg Wash: The egg wash gives empanadas their beautiful golden color and helps them look professional.
• Overworking the Dough: Handle the dough gently to keep it tender and flaky.

How to Serve Ground Beef Empanadas

These empanadas are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with various accompaniments. Serve them with chimichurri sauce, salsa verde, or a simple avocado crema for dipping.

A fresh salad with lime vinaigrette makes an excellent side dish, cutting through the richness of the empanadas. For a heartier meal, serve alongside black beans and rice, or a warm quinoa salad with roasted vegetables.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Empanadas

Make your empanadas look restaurant-worthy with these presentation tips:

• Garnish Thoughtfully: Sprinkle fresh cilantro and a lime wedge on each plate for color and freshness.
• Sauce Drizzles: Create artistic drizzles of chimichurri or hot sauce around the plate.
• Colorful Sides: Serve with colorful pickled vegetables or a bright corn and tomato salad.
• Rustic Charm: Present them on wooden boards or rustic plates for an authentic, homestyle feel.

Ground Beef Empanada Recipe Tips

Here are my best tips for empanada success:

• Make Ahead: You can assemble empanadas and freeze them unbaked. When ready to eat, brush with egg wash and bake directly from frozen, adding 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Double Batch: Since you’re already making the effort, consider doubling the recipe and freezing half for later.
• Perfect Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your filling reaches 160°F when reheating leftovers.
• Dough Consistency: The dough should be pliable but not sticky. Add flour or water as needed to achieve the right texture.
• Even Cooking: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking for even browning.

How to Store Ground Beef Empanadas

Fresh empanadas are best enjoyed within 2 hours of baking. For storage, allow them to cool completely, then place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To freeze, arrange unbaked empanadas on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Baked empanadas can also be frozen for up to 1 month – just reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I fry these empanadas instead of baking them?
A: Absolutely! Heat oil to 350°F and fry the empanadas for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels before serving.

Q: Can I make the filling ahead of time?
A: Yes, the filling can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Make sure it’s completely cool before assembling the empanadas.

Q: Why did my empanadas open up during baking?
A: This usually happens when the empanadas are overfilled or not sealed properly. Make sure to crimp the edges firmly with a fork and avoid overstuffing.

Q: Can I use different fillings?
A: Definitely! This dough works with chicken, pork, cheese, or vegetable fillings. Just ensure any filling is cooked and cooled before assembling.

Q: How do I know when the empanadas are done?
A: They should be golden brown all over and feel firm to the touch. The internal temperature should reach 165°F if you’re checking with a thermometer.

Conclusion

These Easy Homemade Ground Beef Empanadas represent the perfect blend of comfort food and culinary adventure. With their flaky, golden crust and savory, well-seasoned filling, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and flexibility. Once you master the basic technique, you can experiment with different fillings and spice levels to suit your family’s preferences. Whether you’re making them for a casual weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or meal prep for the week ahead, these empanadas deliver satisfaction in every bite.

Remember, cooking is about bringing joy to yourself and others. Don’t worry if your first batch isn’t perfect – each attempt will teach you something new and bring you closer to empanada mastery. The most important ingredient is the love you put into making them. Happy cooking, and enjoy sharing these delicious empanadas with the people you care about!