Easy Beef Empanadas

These Easy Beef Empanadas are a delightful treat that combine flaky pie crust with savory ground beef. Perfect for a quick dinner or a fun appetizer, these empanadas are ready in just about 30 minutes. Their versatility makes them suitable for family meals, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, these empanadas fit perfectly into your busy weeknight schedule.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with accessible ingredients, you can whip them up without a trip to specialty stores.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of spices and cheese ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as a main dish or as party appetizers; they are great for any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly: Both kids and adults will enjoy these tasty bites, making them a hit at family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Easy Beef Empanadas, you’ll need some essential tools to aid in the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Cookie sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A large skillet allows for even cooking of the beef and vegetables, ensuring all flavors meld together perfectly.
• Cookie Sheet: A cookie sheet is essential for baking the empanadas evenly without sticking.
• Mixing Bowl: This tool helps combine ingredients easily before filling your empanadas.
• Rolling Pin: A rolling pin is key for flattening your pie crust to the perfect thickness.

Ingredients

These Easy Beef Empanadas use flaky pie crust and ground beef to create the perfect dinner. Ready in about 30 minutes, they make a great weeknight meal!

Main Ingredients

• 1 package of pre-made pie crust (2 rolls)
• 1 pound of lean ground beef – I use 90% lean; however, 80% or less will work – just drain off the excess fat before continuing.
• 1/4 cup diced yellow onion
• 1/2 medium diced bell pepper, any color
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 cup Mexican blended cheese
• 1 egg

How to Make Easy Beef Empanadas

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your empanadas bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Cookie Sheet

Prepare a cookie sheet by lining it with a baking mat, non-stick foil, parchment paper, or a light coating of oil. Set it aside for later use.

Step 3: Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef along with the diced onions and bell pepper over medium heat until the beef is cooked through. The onions should be translucent and peppers soft.

Step 4: Season the Mixture

Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add cumin, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and chili powder to the beef mixture. Stir well and cook for an additional 2 minutes to let the flavors develop.

Step 5: Roll Out Pie Crusts

Roll out your pie crusts on a clean surface. Use a bowl similar to a cereal bowl to trace circles onto each pie crust. You should get about three circles per crust. If you use a smaller bowl, you can create more circles.

Step 6: Cut Additional Circles

With any leftover pie crust scraps, mix them together and roll out again. Continue cutting circles until all dough is used. You should have around eight total circles.

Step 7: Fill Each Empanada

Place one pie crust circle on your prepared cookie sheet. Add about 2–3 tablespoons of the beef filling in the center of each circle. Top it with one tablespoon of cheese.

Step 8: Seal Each Empanada

Fold each circle in half carefully while keeping all filling inside. Press down on the edges using a fork to seal them shut securely.

Step 9: Brush with Egg Wash

Arrange all filled empanadas on your cookie sheet. Beat one egg in a small bowl and brush it generously over the tops of each empanada for that golden finish.

Step 10: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 12–15 minutes or until they are golden brown on top.

Step 11: Serve

Once baked, remove from oven and serve warm with salads, salsas, or guacamole on the side for dipping!

How to Serve Easy Beef Empanadas

Easy Beef Empanadas are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. You can serve them as a main dish or as an appetizer, making them perfect for any occasion. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Salads

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the richness of empanadas.
• Cucumber Tomato Salad: This refreshing salad adds a crisp contrast and is easy to prepare with diced cucumbers and tomatoes drizzled with olive oil.

Dipping Sauces

• Salsa Verde: A zesty green sauce that adds a tangy flavor profile to complement the beef filling.
• Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip enhances the taste and provides a rich texture that balances the flaky crust.

Toppings and Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for added freshness and flavor.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream offers creaminess that pairs well with the spices in the empanadas.

How to Perfect Easy Beef Empanadas

To ensure your Easy Beef Empanadas turn out just right, follow these tips. They will help you achieve the perfect flaky crust and flavorful filling.

• Use Cold Ingredients: Keeping your pie crust cold helps maintain its flakiness during baking.
• Don’t Overfill: Use only 2-3 tablespoons of filling. Overfilling can cause leaks while baking.
• Seal Properly: Press edges firmly with a fork to avoid opening during baking.
• Brush with Egg Wash: Applying an egg wash before baking gives your empanadas a beautiful golden color.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Beef Empanadas

Pairing side dishes with Easy Beef Empanadas can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that complement their flavors well.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices makes for a hearty side that absorbs any sauces.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and pair well with the savory beef.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and crunch, balancing the flavors.
4. Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro brings brightness to your plate.
5. Fried Plantains: Sweet plantains add a delightful contrast in flavor while providing a tropical touch.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled lightly can add color and healthiness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Beef Empanadas can be simple, but some common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Using the wrong type of beef: Choosing fatty ground beef can lead to greasy empanadas. Opt for lean ground beef (90% lean is ideal) for better results.
• Overfilling the empanadas: Adding too much filling can cause them to burst while baking. Stick to 2-3 tablespoons of filling per empanada for a perfect seal.
• Neglecting to pre-bake the crust: If you’re using homemade crust, pre-baking it slightly can prevent sogginess. This step ensures a flaky and crisp texture.
• Skipping egg wash: Not brushing the tops with egg wash may result in dull-looking empanadas. An egg wash gives them a beautiful golden color and shine.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning the filling can make your empanadas bland. Be sure to taste and adjust seasonings as needed before sealing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Beef Empanadas

• Allow cooked empanadas to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers; they will last up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Beef Empanadas

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but this may result in a softer crust.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat in a skillet for about 5 minutes, turning frequently for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Easy Beef Empanadas, we have answers!

What are Easy Beef Empanadas?

Easy Beef Empanadas are savory pastries filled with seasoned ground beef, cheese, and vegetables, all encased in flaky pie crust.

Can I make these empanadas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble them ahead of time. Refrigerate or freeze them before baking.

What dipping sauces go well with Easy Beef Empanadas?

They pair wonderfully with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. Choose your favorite for added flavor.

How do I customize my Easy Beef Empanadas?

Feel free to add different vegetables or spices based on your preferences. You can also use shredded chicken or beans as alternatives.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Beef Empanadas are not just quick to make but also incredibly versatile! Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, you can customize fillings according to your taste. Don’t hesitate to try different ingredients and enjoy this delightful dish!