Easy Beef Empanadas

These Easy Beef Empanadas are the perfect blend of flaky pie crust and seasoned ground beef, making them an ideal dinner option for busy weeknights. Ready in about 30 minutes, these empanadas are not only delicious but also versatile enough for parties, family meals, or a cozy night in. Their unique flavor and easy preparation will make them a favorite at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total cooking time of just 30 minutes, these empanadas fit perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of spices and cheese creates a savory filling that pleases every palate.
• Versatile Meal Option: Serve them as appetizers, main dishes, or snacks—perfect for any occasion!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these tasty bites, making dinner a breeze.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the essential tools needed for this recipe. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cookie sheet
• Baking mat or parchment paper
• Rolling pin
• Small bowl (for egg wash)
• Fork (for sealing empanadas)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for cooking the beef mixture evenly and thoroughly.
• Cookie sheet: Provides a stable surface for baking your empanadas.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the pie crust easily to create uniform circles for filling.

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 Filling

• 1 pound of lean ground beef – I use 90% lean; however, 80% or less will work—just drain off 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

For the Crust

• 1 package of pre-made pie crust (2 rolls)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

How to Make Easy Beef Empanadas

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures it’s ready when you need to bake your empanadas.

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 for later use.

Step 3: Cook the Filling

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

Step 4: Add Spices

Add cumin, garlic, salt, pepper, and chili powder to the cooked beef mixture:
– Stir well and allow it to cook for an additional 2 minutes before removing from heat.

Step 5: Roll Out Pie Crusts

Roll out both pie crusts:
– Using a bowl similar in size to a cereal bowl, trace circles onto each pie crust. You can get about three circles per crust.
– Combine leftover pie crust scraps to continue cutting until all dough is used; you should aim for about eight total circles.

Step 6: Fill Empanadas

Lay one dough circle on your prepared cookie sheet:
– Add 2–3 tablespoons of filling into the center of each circle.
– Top with 1 tablespoon of cheese.

Step 7: Fold and Seal

Fold each dough circle in half while keeping the filling inside:
– Press down edges with a fork to seal securely.
– Repeat this process until all empanadas are assembled.

Step 8: Brush with Egg Wash

Arrange all filled empanadas on the cookie sheet:
– Beat an egg in a small bowl and brush it over each empanada for that golden-brown 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 alongside your favorite salads, salsas, or guacamole. Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Beef Empanadas

Easy Beef Empanadas are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Pairing them with the right sides or condiments can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious serving suggestions.

With Fresh Salads

• Garden Salad – A refreshing mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with a light vinaigrette complements the savory empanadas.
• Coleslaw – The crunchiness of coleslaw provides a nice texture contrast and adds brightness to the meal.

Dipping Sauces

• Salsa – A classic choice, fresh salsa adds a zesty kick that pairs well with the beef filling.
• Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip enhances the flavors and adds richness to each bite.

Topped with Sautéed Vegetables

• Sautéed Peppers and Onions – Cooked until soft, they add extra flavor and complement the beef nicely.
• Corn Salsa – Sweet corn mixed with lime juice and cilantro offers a delightful sweetness that balances the dish.

How to Perfect Easy Beef Empanadas

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

• Use chilled pie crust – Keeping your pie crust cold helps achieve flaky layers during baking.
• Don’t overfill – Use just 2-3 tablespoons of filling to prevent leaks while baking.
• Seal edges well – Press down firmly with a fork to keep the filling secure and avoid any spills.
• Brush with egg wash – This gives a beautiful golden-brown finish that makes your empanadas visually appealing.
• Experiment with spices – Feel free to add your favorite spices for a unique flavor twist.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Beef Empanadas

Complementing your Easy Beef Empanadas with side dishes can create a full meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with herbs and spices enhances the overall flavor profile.
2. Refried Beans – Creamy beans add protein and richness, making them an ideal pairing.
3. Guacamole Salad – A mix of lettuce, guacamole, and tomatoes creates a refreshing side dish.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with butter is a delightful addition that brings summer vibes.
5. Cilantro Lime Rice – Zesty rice infused with lime juice and cilantro brightens up your plate.
6. Chips and Salsa – Crispy tortilla chips paired with salsa make for an irresistible starter before enjoying empanadas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Beef Empanadas, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Using stale pie crust: Ensure your pie crust is fresh for optimal flakiness. Check the expiration date before using.
• Overfilling empanadas: Adding too much filling can cause them to burst during baking. Stick to 2-3 tablespoons of filling.
• Not sealing edges properly: If the edges aren’t sealed well, the filling may leak out. Use a fork to press down and seal securely.
• Skipping egg wash: An egg wash gives empanadas a beautiful golden color. Don’t forget to brush them before baking!
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated to 350°F for even baking and crisp crust.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking.

Freezing Easy Beef Empanadas

• Freeze unfrosted empanadas individually on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Beef Empanadas

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Easy Beef Empanadas, here are some common ones answered.

Can I use different meats in Easy Beef Empanadas?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer.

How do I customize my Easy Beef Empanadas?

Feel free to add vegetables like corn or zucchini, or switch up the spices based on your taste.

What sides go well with Easy Beef Empanadas?

These empanadas pair beautifully with salads, salsas, or guacamole for dipping.

Can I make Easy Beef Empanadas ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare and freeze them before baking, then simply bake when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Easy Beef Empanadas are not only delicious but also versatile. They can be customized with various fillings and spices according to your preferences. Try them today for a warm, comforting meal that’s perfect any night of the week!