As the sun sets and the kitchen fills with the tantalizing aroma of sizzling beef and spices, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement wash over me. This is the moment when I decide to whip up a batch of easy homemade ground beef empanadas—a dish that turns any evening into a vibrant culinary fiesta! With their crispy, golden crust and savory filling, these empanadas are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile.
I love that they can be prepared in three different ways: deep-fried for that delightful crunch, baked for a lighter twist, or air-fried for a quick and easy option. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply desire a comforting meal after a long day, this ground beef empanada recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience the joy of crafting these flavorful bites that bring a taste of Latin America right to your dinner table!
Why Choose This Ground Beef Empanada Recipe?
Easy to Prepare: The steps are simple enough to delight both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Customizable Fillings: Personalize with your favorite ingredients—try chicken, turkey, or even a vegetarian mix for variety!
Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you deep fry, bake, or air fry, these empanadas deliver delicious results every time.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Their golden, flaky exterior encases a savory beef filling that everyone will love, making them ideal for gatherings.
Quick to Reheat: Leftovers can be easily stored and reheated, ensuring you can enjoy these tasty bites again! Enhance your meal experience by pairing them with fresh salsa or guacamole for added zest.
Ground Beef Empanada Recipe Ingredients
For the Filling
• Ground Beef – Provides the main protein and flavor; lean ground beef can make these empanadas a healthier option.
• Yellow Onion – Contributes sweetness and depth of flavor; shallots or white onion can serve as alternatives.
• Red Bell Pepper – Adds sweetness and vibrant color; you can substitute with green or yellow bell peppers if desired.
• Green Bell Pepper – Offers a slight bitterness to balance the filling; replace with more red bell pepper for a sweeter taste.
• Chili Powder – Provides spice and warmth; adjust the quantity for a milder or spicier filling depending on your preference.
• Cumin – Adds an earthy, warm flavor that perfectly complements the beef; you can omit for a lighter taste.
• Black Pepper – Enhances overall seasoning; replace with white pepper for a milder flavor.
• Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; consider using sea salt or kosher salt for a different texture.
For the Dough
• Empanada Dough – Acts as the outer shell encasing the filling; ready-made Goya Empanada dough is a common and convenient option.
Optional Add-ins
• Cheese – Try adding shredded cheese for a melty interior that elevates the flavor.
With these ingredients at your fingertips, you’re ready to create a delicious ground beef empanada recipe that will impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!
How to Make Ground Beef Empanadas
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Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the ground beef, yellow onion, and both bell peppers. Cook until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender, about 6-8 minutes. Remember to drain any excess fat for a less greasy filling.
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Season the Mixture: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, black pepper, and salt, then continue cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant. This step is essential for infusing the beef with flavor.
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Assemble Empanadas: On a clean surface or parchment paper, lay out an empanada dough disk. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the beef filling onto one half. If desired, sprinkle cheese on top before folding over the dough to seal it. Use a fork to crimp the edges tightly.
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Cook Empanadas: For deep frying, heat oil to 350°F and fry the empanadas for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. For baking, place them onto a parchment-lined sheet and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, until they achieve a delightful golden hue.
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Serve Warm: Enjoy your freshly made empanadas with vibrant salsa, creamy guacamole, or a fresh salad for an irresistible meal.
Optional: Garnish with chopped cilantro for an extra burst of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef Empanadas
Room Temperature: Store cooked empanadas at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to ensure freshness and prevent spoilage.
Fridge: Keep cooked empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked or cooked empanadas in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat frozen empanadas directly from the freezer in an oven at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes until heated through and crispy. Enjoy these delicious ground beef empanadas any time!
Ground Beef Empanada Recipe Variations
There are endless ways to make this dish your own, inviting you to explore flavors and textures that excite your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Swap shredded cheese with a non-dairy alternative to keep it plant-based. Enjoy the same great taste without the dairy!
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Vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with a mix of black beans and corn for a hearty filling. This twist is not only satisfying but also loaded with flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra layer of heat. Perfect for those who crave a little passion in every bite!
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Savory Herbs: Incorporate fresh cilantro or parsley into the filling for an aromatic boost. These herbs elevate flavor and add a refreshing touch.
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Different Proteins: Use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter version. These swaps maintain the essence of empanadas while offering new flavors.
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Sweet & Savory: Mix in some sautéed apples or raisins for a delightful sweetness that balances the savory filling. This unexpected combination will surprise your palate!
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Gourmet Touch: Add crumbled feta or goat cheese to your filling for a rich, creamy interior. This addition creates a deliciously unique flavor profile.
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Mixed Veggies: Toss in some chopped spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture. Not only do these veggies complement the beef, but they also enhance the overall filling experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Ground Beef Empanadas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the filling (cooked ground beef with vegetables and spices) up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook and cool your filling thoroughly before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating. Additionally, you can assemble the empanadas (filled and sealed) and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. To maintain their freshness, cover them tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to enjoy, just fry, bake, or air-fry them as instructed, and you’ll have a delicious meal with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Ground Beef Empanadas
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Sauté First: Always cook the onions and peppers until soft before adding the beef. This deepens the flavor of your ground beef empanada recipe.
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Seal Tight: Use a fork to crimp edges firmly. This helps prevent filling from leaking out during cooking, ensuring perfect empanadas.
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Customize Spices: Adjust the chili powder and cumin to match your heat preference. Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices for a unique twist!
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Baking Brilliance: If baking, brush the empanadas with an egg wash for a shiny, golden crust and an added layer of flavor, helping them look as good as they taste.
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Storage Savvy: Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze for a quick meal later. Reheat in the oven for that crispy texture.
What to Serve with Ground Beef Empanadas?
Looking to create a feast that dances on the taste buds alongside your empanadas?
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Fresh Salsa:
A zesty homemade salsa brings vibrant flavors that perfectly cut through the rich filling of the empanadas. -
Creamy Guacamole:
This smooth and creamy dip adds a luscious texture, balancing the savory notes in each bite. -
Crispy Green Salad:
A light, crunchy salad with fresh greens and a citrus vinaigrette adds brightness, making the meal feel fresh and invigorating. -
Spicy Pickled Vegetables:
Sharply tangy and slightly spicy pickled veggies offer a delightful crunch, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal. -
Flavored Rice:
Serve with cilantro lime rice or saffron rice; both provide a fragrant base that complements the spices in the empanadas. -
Chilled Sangria:
This fruity and refreshing beverage pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the empanadas, making it a perfect addition for gatherings.
Elevate your dinner table by mixing and matching these sides with your delightful ground beef empanadas!
Ground Beef Empanada Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ground beef for empanadas?
I recommend choosing lean ground beef to avoid greasy empanadas. Look for a meat that has 80% lean to 20% fat for the best flavor and texture. Freshly ground beef will have a bright red color, and avoid any packages with discoloration or a sour smell.
How should I store leftover empanadas?
Leftover cooked empanadas should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispy texture when reheating, pop them in the oven or air fryer at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, and they’ll be just as delightful as when you first made them.
Can I freeze empanadas, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! For freezing, you can tackle this in two ways: freeze uncooked or cooked empanadas. If you’re freezing uncooked empanadas, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer until solid. Transfer them to a freezer bag, and they can last up to 3 months. For cooked empanadas, follow the same method and reheat directly from the freezer at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes.
What if my empanada filling leaks during cooking?
To prevent any leaks, ensure that the edges of the dough are sealed tightly. You can use a fork to crimp the edges securely. If leaks occur, it often means the filling was overstuffed. Make sure to stick to 2-3 tablespoons of filling per empanada. If a leak happens despite this, don’t worry! Just enjoy it as a crispy treat; flavor will still shine through.
Are these empanadas safe for those with allergies?
While this ground beef empanada recipe is generally safe, you should always account for specific allergies. For instance, if someone is gluten-sensitive, consider using gluten-free empanada dough. Also, take note of any individual sensitivities to specific seasonings like cumin or chili powder. Always read ingredient labels for any processed items like your empanada dough.
Ground Beef Empanada Recipe: Simple, Satisfying, and Scrumptious
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the ground beef, yellow onion, and both bell peppers until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Season the Mixture: Stir in chili powder, cumin, black pepper, and salt, continuing to cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Assemble Empanadas: Lay out an empanada dough disk. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of beef filling onto one half. Sprinkle cheese if desired, fold over and crimp the edges with a fork.
- Cook Empanadas: For deep frying, heat oil to 350°F and fry for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. For baking, place on a parchment-lined sheet and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.
- Serve Warm: Enjoy empanadas with salsa, guacamole, or a salad. Optionally, garnish with cilantro.