Crispy Homemade Beef Empanadas Recipe: Golden Pockets of Joy

Crispy, golden beef empanadas have been my ultimate comfort food since childhood.

Memories of my grandmother’s kitchen inspire this delectable recipe.

Flaky pastry pockets filled with seasoned ground beef create a mouthwatering meal everyone craves.

Rich spices and tender meat combine perfectly inside these delightful turnovers.

Each bite promises a burst of savory flavors that dance across your palate.

Cultural traditions shine through in this simple yet remarkable dish.

The magic happens when you fold these irresistible parcels and bake them to golden perfection.

Let’s unlock the secret to making the most incredible empanadas you’ve ever tasted.

Beef Empanadas (Turnovers) Ingredients

• Flour: Foundation for crispy, golden empanada shell, all-purpose works best.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor and helps control dough texture.
• Butter: Creates flaky, rich layers in the pastry, cold butter is key.
• Egg: Binds dough together and adds richness.
• Cold Water: Helps form smooth, cohesive dough.

• Ground Beef: Primary protein, provides hearty and savory base.
• Onion, Garlic: Foundational aromatics for deep flavor profile.
• Paprika, Cumin, Oregano: Spices that create traditional Latin American seasoning.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential for balanced seasoning.
• Olives, Raisins: Optional ingredients adding sweet and tangy complexity.

• Egg: Used for egg wash to create golden, shiny exterior.
• Vegetable Oil: Necessary for frying method, provides crispy texture.
• Chimichurri, Salsa, Lime Wedges: Optional accompaniments for serving.

Empanadas Beef Filling & Dough Steps

Step 1: Create Flaky Pastry Dough

Grab a mixing bowl and combine flour with a pinch of salt.

Gently work cold butter into the flour until it looks like coarse breadcrumbs.

Crack an egg and pour in chilled water, blending until a smooth dough forms.

Pop the dough into the refrigerator to rest and chill for half an hour.

Step 2: Craft Savory Beef Filling

Heat a skillet over medium flame.

Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until they become translucent and fragrant.

Introduce ground beef to the pan, breaking it into small pieces as it browns beautifully.

• Paprika
• Cumin
• Oregano
• Salt
• Black pepper

Fold in briny olives and sweet raisins for an extra flavor punch.

Let the mixture cool completely.

Step 3: Shape Delicious Pastry Pockets

Dust your work surface with flour.

Roll out the chilled dough and cut into perfect circular discs.

If you’re short on time, store-bought empanada discs work wonderfully too.

Step 4: Assemble Tasty Turnovers

Spoon the rich beef mixture onto one half of each dough circle.

Fold the pastry over to create a half-moon shape.

Crimp the edges tightly with a fork’s tines.

Brush the exterior with beaten egg for a golden, glossy finish.

Step 5: Cook to Crispy Perfection

Baking Method:

Warm the oven to 375°F.

Arrange empanadas on a baking sheet and bake until they turn a stunning golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.

Frying Method:

Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F.

Carefully lower empanadas into the hot oil, frying until they become crisp and beautiful, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let the empanadas cool briefly.

Serve alongside zesty chimichurri, fresh salsa, or tangy lime wedges for an incredible flavor experience.

Folding Tips for Beef Empanadas

• Swap half the butter with cold shortening for an extra flaky, tender crust that melts in your mouth.
• Chill the beef mixture completely before filling to reduce moisture and create a tighter seal when folding empanadas.
• Experiment with different meat options like ground chicken, pork, or vegetarian alternatives such as black beans and corn for diverse taste profiles.
• Choose between baking (healthier option) or frying (crispier result) based on personal preference and dietary needs, ensuring golden exterior and fully cooked filling.
• Prepare uncooked empanadas in advance, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags for quick, convenient meals within 2-3 months.

Beef Empanadas Storage Guide

• Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Place a paper towel underneath to absorb excess moisture and prevent sogginess.
• Wrap individual empanadas tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They'll keep well for 2-3 months. Label the bag with the date to track freshness.
• Restore crispiness by baking frozen or refrigerated empanadas at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain the crisp pastry texture.
• Warm refrigerated empanadas in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side. Add a touch of oil to help crisp up the exterior and restore the golden-brown crust.

Side Picks for Beef Turnover Empanadas

• Savory Wine Selection: Pair these hearty beef empanadas with a bold Malbec from Argentina, whose robust red fruit notes and spicy undertones perfectly complement the rich, savory meat filling.
• Zesty Dipping Companion: Create a vibrant chimichurri sauce using fresh parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil, which cuts through the empanadas' richness with bright, herbal flavors.
• Cool Contrast Sauce: Whip up a tangy yogurt-lime dip blended with cilantro and a pinch of cumin, offering a creamy, refreshing counterpoint to the crispy, spiced empanada exterior.
• Fresh Salad Partner: Serve a light Argentine-style salad with mixed greens, sliced tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette to balance the empanadas' richness and add a fresh, crisp element to the meal.

Beef Turnovers With Spice And Sauce Ideas

• Vegetarian Empanadas: Replace ground beef with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, black beans, and roasted bell peppers. Season with the same spices for a rich, hearty filling.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the dough. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Chicken Empanadas: Swap ground beef for finely chopped cooked chicken mixed with sofrito and traditional spices. Add a touch of cream cheese for extra moisture.
• Baked Light Option: Skip deep-frying and opt for baking on a parchment-lined sheet. Spray with olive oil for a crispy exterior without excess oil.

FAQs

• What are the key ingredients for the empanada filling?

The key ingredients include ground beef, onions, garlic, paprika, cumin, oregano, olives, and optional raisins. These create a rich, flavorful mixture that gives empanadas their signature taste.

• Can I use pre-made dough for this recipe?

Yes, you can use store-bought empanada discs or pie dough as a time-saving alternative. This makes the recipe more convenient for home cooks who want a quicker preparation method.

• How do I prevent empanadas from leaking while cooking?

To prevent leaks, ensure the edges are tightly sealed by crimping with a fork and avoid overfilling the dough. Press the edges firmly and create a good seal before baking or frying.

• Is there a healthier cooking method for empanadas?

Baking is a healthier alternative to frying. When baked at 375°F, empanadas become golden and crispy with less oil, reducing overall calorie content while maintaining a delicious texture.

Beef Empanadas That Always Steal the Show

• Quick Kitchen Magic: Craft Homemade Flavor Bombs
• Customize Your Cooking Adventure: Swap between baking and frying based on your mood or kitchen setup. Both methods deliver crispy, golden exterior with a delicious beef filling that guarantees crowd-pleasing results.
• Prep-Ahead Party Trick: Make empanadas in advance and freeze uncooked. When unexpected guests arrive, pop them directly into the oven or fryer for instant gourmet appetizers that look like you spent hours preparing.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Fusion: Combine sweet raisins and salty olives for a surprising taste profile that transforms ordinary ground beef into an exciting culinary experience. Kids and adults will love these handheld delights that pack complex flavors in every bite.
• Versatile Meal Solution: Perfect for casual gatherings, game days, packed lunches, or quick dinners. Portable and easy to eat, these beef turnovers provide a complete meal in one convenient package that satisfies hunger and delights taste buds.

Empanadas (Beef Turnovers) Recipe

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4.7 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Argentinian Empanadas bring savory beef wrapped in golden pastry, promising a delightful culinary journey through South American flavors. Crisp edges and rich filling invite you to savor each delectable bite of this classic street food treasure.

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Ingredients

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Empanada Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup butter, chilled and cubed
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup cold water

Meat Filling:

• 1 pound (1 lb) ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/4 cup green olives, chopped
• 2 tablespoons raisins
• 1 egg (for sealing and egg wash)
• Oil (for frying)

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Instructions

1. Craft a rustic dough by blending flour and salt in a mixing bowl. Incorporate cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Introduce a beaten egg and chilled water, kneading gently until a cohesive dough emerges. Refrigerate the dough for half an hour to enhance its texture and elasticity.
2. Sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic in a skillet until translucent and fragrant. Add ground beef, methodically breaking it into small crumbles while browning evenly. Sprinkle in aromatic spices including paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper, creating a robust flavor profile. Fold in briny olives and sweet raisins, allowing the mixture to develop complexity. Remove from heat and permit the filling to cool completely.
3. Dust a clean work surface with flour. Roll out the chilled dough to a uniform thickness, using circular cutters or a knife to create perfectly sized discs. Alternatively, utilize pre-made empanada pastry rounds for convenience.
4. Position a generous spoonful of the seasoned beef mixture onto one half of each dough circle. Carefully fold the pastry over, creating a half-moon shape. Crimp the edges meticulously using a fork to ensure a tight seal. Gently brush the exterior with a beaten egg wash to promote a golden, glossy finish.
5. For baking, preheat the oven to 375°F. Arrange empanadas on a lined baking sheet, allowing space between each pastry. Bake until the exterior transforms into a rich, amber-brown color, approximately 20-25 minutes.
6. Alternatively, for a traditional crispy texture, heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F. Carefully submerge empanadas and fry until they achieve a crackling, golden-brown exterior, roughly 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to absorbent paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Serve the empanadas warm, accompanied by vibrant chimichurri sauce, zesty salsa, or fresh lime wedges for an authentic South American dining experience.

Notes

• Select high-quality ground beef with moderate fat content for juicier, more flavorful filling that doesn’t dry out during cooking.
• Chill dough thoroughly to prevent shrinking and ensure a crisp, flaky texture when baking or frying empanadas.
• Experiment with filling variations like shredded chicken, vegetarian black beans, or spicy chorizo to suit different dietary preferences.
• Use an egg wash generously for a beautiful golden-brown exterior that adds appetizing color and creates a glossy finish on the empanadas.

• Prep Time: 20minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Latin American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 15 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg