Easy Beef Empanadas

These Easy Beef Empanadas are not just quick to make, but they are also bursting with flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, these empanadas combine flaky pie crust with a savory beef filling. You’ll love how versatile they are and how they can be enjoyed as a snack or a main course. With just about 30 minutes of prep and cook time, you’ll have delicious homemade empanadas ready to impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These empanadas can be made in just about 30 minutes, making them ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of spices and cheese creates a mouthwatering filling that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as a main dish or serve with salads, salsas, or guacamole for a fun appetizer.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids enjoy the handheld nature of the empanadas, making them perfect for lunchboxes or family meals.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can easily modify the filling to include your favorite vegetables or spices.

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Tools and Preparation

To make these Easy Beef Empanadas, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cookie sheet
• Baking mat or parchment paper
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowl
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: This is essential for cooking the ground beef evenly and ensuring all ingredients blend well together.
• Cookie sheet: A sturdy cookie sheet provides a flat surface for baking your empanadas to perfection.
• Rolling pin: It helps roll out the pie crusts evenly, which is key to achieving the perfect thickness for your empanadas.

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!

For the Crust

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

For the Filling

• 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 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 cup Mexican blended cheese

For Topping

• 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 lightly oiling it. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Filling

In a large skillet:
1. Cook lean ground beef, diced onions, and bell peppers. Stir until the beef is cooked through and onions are translucent.
2. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Add cumin, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Roll Out Pie Crusts

Roll out both pie crusts on a floured surface:
1. Using a bowl similar in size to a cereal bowl, trace circles onto each pie crust (you should get about three circles per crust).
2. Mix leftover dough together and roll out again to make more circles until all dough is used (aim for eight total).

Step 5: Assemble Empanadas

On each pie crust circle:
1. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of filling in the center.
2. Top each with approximately 1 tablespoon of cheese.
3. Fold over the crust circle, keeping filling inside, and press edges down with a fork to seal.

Step 6: Bake Your Empanadas

Arrange filled empanadas on your prepared cookie sheet:
1. Beat one egg in a small bowl and brush it over each empanada for a golden finish.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until tops are golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

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

How to Serve Easy Beef Empanadas

Serving Easy Beef Empanadas can elevate your meal to a new level. These tasty treats are versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides and toppings that enhance their flavor.

With Fresh Salads

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers tossed with a light vinaigrette.
• Corn Salad: Sweet corn, lime juice, and cilantro create a refreshing side.
• Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado slices mixed with cherry tomatoes and onion for added texture.

With Dipping Sauces

• Salsa Verde: A tangy green salsa made from tomatillos that adds brightness.
• Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that pairs perfectly with the savory beef filling.
• Chipotle Sauce: Smoky and spicy sauce that brings heat to each bite.

With Sides of Rice or Beans

• Spanish Rice: Flavored rice cooked with tomatoes and spices for a hearty addition.
• Refried Beans: Creamy beans seasoned with spices enhance the protein in your meal.

How to Perfect Easy Beef Empanadas

To make your Easy Beef Empanadas even more delicious, consider these helpful tips. They will guide you in perfecting the flavors and textures of your empanadas.

• Choose the Right Meat: Using lean ground beef ensures a flavorful filling without excess fat.
• Season Generously: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices according to your taste preference for a bolder flavor.
• Seal Well: Press edges firmly with a fork to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
• Brush with Egg Wash: This step gives empanadas a golden brown finish that’s visually appealing.
• Experiment with Fillings: Try adding different vegetables or cheeses for unique variations on this classic recipe.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Beef Empanadas

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Beef Empanadas can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob topped with mayo, cheese, and chili powder for a zesty flavor.
2. Black Bean Salad: A mix of black beans, bell peppers, and onions tossed in lime dressing adds freshness.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice sprinkled with fresh cilantro and lime juice complements the empanadas beautifully.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served alongside salsa for added crunch and flavor contrast.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a healthy balance to your meal.
6. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage and carrots offers great texture against the empanadas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Beef Empanadas, certain common mistakes can lead to less than perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong type of meat: Selecting a fatty ground beef can result in greasy empanadas. Opt for lean ground beef and drain any excess fat after cooking.

• Skipping seasoning: Bland filling can ruin the dish. Always season your mixture with spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic to enhance flavor.

• Overfilling the empanadas: Stuffing too much filling can cause them to burst while baking. Stick to 2-3 tablespoons of filling for each empanada.

• Neglecting to seal properly: Failing to seal the edges well may lead to leaks during baking. Use a fork to press down on the edges firmly.

• Not preheating the oven: Baking in a non-preheated oven may result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven before placing your empanadas inside.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Easy Beef Empanadas in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Beef Empanadas

• Wrap each empanada individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Easy Beef Empanadas

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-12 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, but note that this may make them soggy.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat in a skillet for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making Easy Beef Empanadas or have questions, check out these FAQs!

How do I make Easy Beef Empanadas from scratch?

You can prepare your own pie crust using flour, butter, and water instead of store-bought crust for a homemade touch!

Can I use other meats for Easy Beef Empanadas?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.

What should I serve with my Easy Beef Empanadas?

These empanadas pair well with fresh salsas, guacamole, or a light salad for a complete meal.

How long do Easy Beef Empanadas last in the fridge?

They will stay good for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

Easy Beef Empanadas are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize the fillings based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether it’s adding vegetables or trying different cheeses, these empanadas make a fantastic weeknight meal that is sure to impress. Give this recipe a try and enjoy every bite!