There’s something undeniably enchanting about biting into a perfectly baked beef empanada-a golden, flaky pocket that unleashes a burst of savory richness with every mouthful. Irresistible savory beef empanadas are more than just a snack; they are a cultural emblem, a tasty nod to centuries-old culinary traditions that have traveled across continents. whether enjoyed as a comforting street food or a centerpiece at a festive gathering,these flavorful delights captivate with their harmonious blend of seasoned ground beef,aromatic spices,and tender dough. Join us as we explore the art and allure behind crafting these delectable treats that promise to satisfy both the hunger and the soul.
Irresistible savory beef empanadas bring together a symphony of flaky pastry and rich, seasoned beef filling that captures hearts around the world. Originating from Latin American culinary tradition,these handheld delights embody comfort and party in every crisp bite. Crafting these empanadas at home transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible savory beef empanadas experience that invites you to dive into layers of buttery dough and robust flavors-a journey that is as rewarding as it is delicious.
Prep and Cook time
Preparation: 30 minutes
Cooking: 25 minutes
Total: 55 minutes
Yield
Makes 12 medium-sized empanadas
Difficulty level
Medium – perfect for home cooks ready to elevate their baking skills
Ingredients
- For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup cold water
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb lean ground beef (preferably 80/20 for flavor and moisture)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ cup beef broth, low sodium
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped (optional, for authentic richness)
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish
- For Assembly and Finishing:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Using a pastry cutter or yoru fingers, cut in cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces.
- Add the egg, cold water, and vinegar. Mix gently with a fork until the dough just comes together-avoid overworking to keep it flaky.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, knead briefly into a smooth ball, wrap in plastic, and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Beef Filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 8 minutes. Sprinkle in cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine well.
- Pour in the beef broth, reduce heat to low, and simmer until liquid reduces by half, about 5 minutes.remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Fold in chopped hard-boiled egg if using.
- Roll and Cut Dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough out to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a 5-6 inch round cutter, cut out circles for the empanadas. Keep dough scraps refrigerated for later use.
- Assemble the Empanadas: Place a heaping tablespoon of the beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Brush edges with beaten egg, then fold the dough over to form a half-moon.Press edges together gently.
- Seal Crisply: Use a fork to crimp the edges tightly, ensuring no gaps. This step seals in juices and creates a decorative edge that crisps beautifully in the oven.
- Place empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush tops generously with beaten egg wash and sprinkle sesame seeds if desired.
- Bake: preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake empanadas for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. rotate pan halfway through for even baking.
- Once out of the oven, allow empanadas to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let flavors settle and prevent burns.
Tips for Success
- Butter is key: Using cold, high-quality butter ensures the dough achieves maximum flakiness and rich flavor.
- For extra tender dough, handle as little as possible to avoid gluten development.
- To keep empanada edges sealed perfectly, don’t skip the egg wash-this acts like edible glue.
- The beef filling can be prepared a day ahead; refrigerate and bring to room temperature before filling the dough.
- For a spicier twist, add finely chopped jalapeños to the filling or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the beef with sautéed mushrooms,black beans,or lentils with the same seasoning blend.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these irresistible savory beef empanadas warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a side of chimichurri or a tangy cilantro-lime crema. Pair with a crisp green salad or pickled vegetables to balance the richness. A refreshing, cold beverage like iced hibiscus tea or sparkling water with citrus elevates the meal further. These empanadas are perfect for sharing as appetizers or enjoyed as satisfying lunch or dinner bites.
| nutrition per Empanada | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 24 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
Internal Inspiration: For a delightful twist on savory pastries, check out our Spiced Chicken pastelillos recipe for another crowd-pleasing hand-held favorite.
Further Reading: Learn more about the rich history and cultural variations of empanadas on Britannica’s Empanada Overview.
Q&A
Q&A: Irresistible Savory Beef Empanadas – A Flavorful Delight
Q1: What makes beef empanadas such a beloved dish around the world?
A1: Beef empanadas captivate taste buds with their perfect balance of a flaky, golden crust and a rich, savory filling. Their portability and versatility allow them to be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main course across diverse cultures, making them a universal comfort food wrapped in a delightful pastry.
Q2: How do you achieve the perfect texture for empanada dough?
A2: The secret lies in using cold fat-usually butter or oil-and minimal handling of the dough to keep it tender and flaky. Chilling the dough before rolling it out helps prevent toughness, while baking at the right temperature ensures a golden crust that’s crisp but not dry.
Q3: What key ingredients enhance the beef filling’s flavor without overpowering it?
A3: Aromatics like onions, garlic, and bell peppers create a flavorful base. Adding spices such as cumin, smoked paprika, and a touch of chili powder introduces warmth and depth. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten the filling, delivering complex yet balanced layers of taste.
Q4: Can empanadas be made ahead of time and still taste fresh?
A4: Absolutely! Empanadas can be prepared in batches, then frozen before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This makes them perfect for entertaining or fast weekday meals without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Q5: What are some creative serving suggestions for beef empanadas?
A5: Serve them alongside a vibrant chimichurri sauce or a tangy tomato salsa for dipping, wich complements the savory beef beautifully. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Q6: How can I customize beef empanadas for different dietary preferences?
A6: For a lighter option, swap regular flour for whole wheat or gluten-free alternatives in the dough. Incorporate vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or carrots into the beef filling for added texture and nutrition.These tweaks allow everyone to enjoy empanadas without compromising on flavor.
Q7: What’s a common mistake to avoid when making beef empanadas?
A7: Overfilling the empanadas can lead to difficulty sealing them properly and potential leakage during baking. It’s best to use a modest amount of filling, ensuring the edges can be crimped tightly to maintain that iconic, neat crescent shape and keep all the deliciousness locked inside.
Q8: How do beef empanadas reflect cultural diversity in cuisine?
A8: While the concept of stuffed pastries exists worldwide,beef empanadas showcase a unique blend of indigenous flavors and culinary influences from Spanish and Latin American traditions. each region adds its own twist through spices,preparation methods,and accompaniments,telling a flavorful story of cultural fusion.
The Conclusion
From the frist flaky bite to the last savory morsel, these irresistible beef empanadas capture the essence of comfort and culinary tradition wrapped in a golden, handheld package. Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main course, their rich, flavorful filling and perfectly crisp crust make every mouthful a delightful experience. So next time you crave a taste that’s both familiar and exciting, remember that these savory beef empanadas are more than just food-they’re a celebration of flavor, culture, and the simple joy of sharing a lovingly crafted dish.
