Easy Beef Empanadas

These Easy Beef Empanadas are perfect for a quick and delicious dinner. With flaky pie crust and flavorful ground beef, they come together in just about 30 minutes. These empanadas are suitable for anyone looking for a weeknight meal, party appetizers, or a fun family dinner. Their unique combination of spices and cheese makes every bite delightful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, these empanadas are ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Filling: The blend of spices with ground beef creates a savory filling that everyone will love.
• Versatile Option: Customize the filling with different veggies or cheeses to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: Kids enjoy folding the empanadas, making it a fun cooking activity for the whole family.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, these empanadas fit right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Easy Beef Empanadas, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cookie sheet
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowl
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for cooking the ground beef evenly and mixing in the vegetables.
• Cookie sheet: Holds the empanadas while they bake, ensuring they cook evenly.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the pie crust to create the perfect size circles for filling.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 1 package of pre-made pie crust (2 rolls)

For the Filling

• 1 pound of lean ground beef
• 1/4 cup diced yellow onion
• 1/2 medium diced bell pepper, any color
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 cup Mexican blended cheese

For Egg Wash

• 1 egg

How to Make Easy Beef Empanadas

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Prepare a cookie sheet by lining it with a baking mat, non-stick foil, parchment paper, or oil. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Add ground beef, onions, and bell pepper.
2. Cook until the beef is browned, onions are translucent, and peppers are soft.
3. Drain any excess fat.

Step 4: Season the Mixture

Add cumin, garlic, salt, pepper, and chili powder to the cooked beef mixture:
1. Stir well and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
2. Remove from heat.

Step 5: Roll Out Pie Crusts

Roll out both pie crusts:
1. Use a bowl similar in size to a cereal bowl to trace circles onto each pie crust; you should get about three circles per crust.
2. Combine leftover dough to cut more circles until all dough is used (you can make around eight total).

Step 6: Fill and Fold Empanadas

On each pie crust circle:
1. Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling in the center.
2. Top with one tablespoon of cheese.
3. Fold the circle in half over the filling and press edges down with a fork to seal.

Step 7: Arrange on Cookie Sheet

Arrange all filled empanadas on your prepared cookie sheet.

Step 8: Brush with Egg Wash

In a small bowl:
1. Beat one egg.
2. Brush on top of each empanada for that golden finish.

Step 9: Bake

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

Step 10: Serve

Remove from oven and serve warm with your favorite salads, salsas, or guacamole! Enjoy your Easy Beef Empanadas!

How to Serve Easy Beef Empanadas

Easy Beef Empanadas are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. These empanadas pair wonderfully with sides that complement their rich flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Fresh Salads

• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness.
• Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado slices with lime juice offer a refreshing contrast to the savory empanadas.

Accompanied by Salsas

• Pico de Gallo: This fresh tomato salsa provides a zesty kick that pairs perfectly with the beef filling.
• Mango Salsa: The sweetness of mango salsa balances the savory flavors of the empanadas.

Alongside Dips

• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole enhances the texture and flavor of each bite.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds richness and tanginess, making every empanada even more enjoyable.

How to Perfect Easy Beef Empanadas

To ensure your Easy Beef Empanadas turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Cold Pie Crust: Keeping your pie crust cold will result in flakier empanadas once baked.
• Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill your empanadas; too much filling can cause them to burst during baking.
• Seal Edges Well: Pressing the edges firmly with a fork helps prevent leaking and ensures a secure closure.
• Brush with Egg Wash: An egg wash on top gives your empanadas a beautiful golden color and glossy finish.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Beef Empanadas

Pairing side dishes with Easy Beef Empanadas can enhance your meal. Here’s a list of perfect accompaniments.

1. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the flavors of the beef beautifully.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and richness, making for a hearty meal.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and crunch to balance the savory empanadas.
4. Fried Plantains: Sweet fried plantains provide a lovely contrast to the spicy filling.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness that contrasts nicely with the warm empanadas.
6. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips paired with salsa offer an easy appetizer or snack option alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Beef Empanadas is simple, but common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the Wrong Meat: Choosing fatty ground beef can make your filling too greasy. Opt for lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) for the best texture.
• Overfilling Empanadas: Adding too much filling can cause the empanadas to burst open while baking. Stick to 2-3 tablespoons of filling per empanada for perfect results.
• Neglecting Edge Sealing: Not properly sealing the edges can lead to leaks during baking. Use a fork to press down on the edges, ensuring they are tightly closed.
• Skipping the Egg Wash: Omitting the egg wash means missing out on a golden, crispy finish. Brush each empanada with beaten egg before baking for an appealing color and shine.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven affects cooking time and texture. Always preheat your oven to 350°F before placing your empanadas inside.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow empanadas to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Easy Beef Empanadas

• Freeze uncooked empanadas on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Beef Empanadas

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individually on high for about 1 minute, but expect a softer crust.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warm and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Easy Beef Empanadas, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use homemade dough instead of pre-made?

Yes, you can absolutely use homemade dough if you prefer! Just ensure it is rolled thinly enough.

How do I customize my empanada filling?

Feel free to add vegetables like corn or zucchini or swap ground beef for chicken or turkey for variation.

Are Easy Beef Empanadas suitable for freezing?

Yes, these empanadas freeze well! Just follow the freezing instructions above for best results.

What dips pair well with Easy Beef Empanadas?

Serve them with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for delightful flavor combinations.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Beef Empanadas are not only quick to prepare but also versatile in flavor. Customize them with your favorite ingredients and enjoy them as a cozy weeknight meal or a delightful appetizer. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; you’ll love how easy it is!