Easy Beef Empanadas

These Easy Beef Empanadas are the perfect solution for a quick and delicious meal. With a flaky pie crust and savory ground beef, they come together in just about 30 minutes. Ideal for weeknight dinners, parties, or even as a tasty snack, these empanadas are versatile enough to please any crowd. The combination of spices and cheese elevates the flavor, making them a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These empanadas are ready in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Filling: The blend of spices, beef, and cheese creates a mouthwatering taste that will satisfy your cravings.
• Versatile Meal Options: Serve these empanadas as an appetizer, main course, or snack at your next gathering.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy these tasty bites filled with flavorful ingredients.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare and freeze these empanadas for an easy meal later.

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Tools and Preparation

To make these Easy Beef Empanadas successfully, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A large skillet is essential for cooking the beef and vegetables evenly.
• Cookie Sheet: This ensures your empanadas bake evenly without sticking.
• Rolling Pin: Use this to roll out the pie crusts to the perfect thickness for filling.
• Fork: A fork is handy for sealing the edges of each empanada securely.

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 Dough

• 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 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 (175°C) so it’s ready for baking once your empanadas are assembled.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

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

Step 3: Cook the Filling

In a large skillet:
1. Cook ground beef with onions and bell pepper until the beef is browned.
2. Ensure onions are translucent and peppers are soft.
3. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 4: Season the Mixture

Add cumin, garlic, salt, pepper, and chili powder to your ground 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. Using a bowl similar to a cereal bowl, trace circles onto each pie crust (you can get about three per crust).
2. If you have leftover dough, mix it together to cut more circles until all dough is used (aim for about eight total).

Step 6: Assemble Empanadas

Lay one pie crust circle on your prepared cookie sheet:
1. Add 2-3 tablespoons of filling in the center of each circle.
2. Top with 1 tablespoon of cheese.
3. Fold each circle in half to enclose the filling; press edges down with a fork to seal.

Step 7: Bake

Arrange all assembled empanadas on your cookie sheet:
1. Beat an egg in a small bowl and brush it over each empanada’s top.
2. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until tops are golden brown.

Step 8: 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 enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or looking for a quick meal, these empanadas can be paired with different sides and toppings that elevate their flavor.

Fresh Salads

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness to the meal.
• Cabbage Slaw: A tangy cabbage slaw provides a crunch that complements the tender empanadas beautifully.

Salsas

• Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro brings a burst of flavor.
• Mango Salsa: Sweet mango salsa offers a delightful contrast to the savory beef filling.

Dips

• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is a classic choice that pairs well with the spices in the empanadas.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds richness and balances the flavors perfectly.

Drinks

• Mexican Beer: A cold Mexican lager complements the flavors of the empanadas.
• Horchata: This sweet rice drink is refreshing and offers a nice balance to the savory dish.

How to Perfect Easy Beef Empanadas

To make your Easy Beef Empanadas truly exceptional, consider these important tips. Each step can enhance your cooking experience and ensure delicious results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and spices significantly improve flavor. Opt for fresh garlic instead of pre-minced for added zest.
• Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to add more filling, overstuffing can lead to messy empanadas. Stick to 2-3 tablespoons per circle.
• Seal Properly: Ensure you press down on the edges firmly with a fork. This prevents the filling from leaking out during baking.
• Preheat Your Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that golden crust you desire.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to mix different cheeses or add veggies like corn or black beans for variety.
• Brush with Egg Wash: Brushing each empanada with egg gives them a beautiful golden color when baked.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Beef Empanadas

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Beef Empanadas can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that go well with this savory treat.

1. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices complements the beef empanadas perfectly.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and are a traditional side in Mexican cuisine.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter and lime adds a fun summer vibe to your meal.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa offer a great appetizer option before digging into your empanadas.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrients to your plate.
6. Stuffed Avocados: Halved avocados filled with chicken salad or shrimp make for an elegant side that pairs nicely with beef empanadas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Beef Empanadas can be fun, but there are common pitfalls to keep in mind. Avoiding these mistakes will help you create delicious empanadas every time.

• Using the wrong pie crust: Ensure you use a flaky, pre-made pie crust for the best texture. Homemade crusts may not yield the same results without proper technique.
• Overfilling the empanadas: Too much filling can lead to bursting during baking. Stick to 2-3 tablespoons of filling per empanada for perfect results.
• Not sealing properly: Be sure to press down the edges firmly with a fork. This helps prevent filling from leaking out while baking.
• Skipping the egg wash: Brushing the tops with beaten egg gives your empanadas a beautiful golden color. Don’t skip this step for presentation!
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Always preheat your oven to 350°F. Baking at a lower temperature may result in undercooked empanadas.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Easy Beef Empanadas in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy Beef Empanadas

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

Reheating Easy Beef Empanadas

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but note that they may become soggy.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Easy Beef Empanadas?

Easy Beef Empanadas are savory pastries filled with seasoned ground beef and cheese, wrapped in flaky pie crust. They are quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights.

Can I make Easy Beef Empanadas ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them and refrigerate or freeze them before baking. Just be sure to follow storage guidelines.

What other fillings can I use in Easy Beef Empanadas?

Feel free to customize your empanadas with different fillings like chicken, cheese, or vegetables based on your preferences.

Are Easy Beef Empanadas healthy?

These empanadas can be made healthier by using leaner meat and adding more vegetables. Adjusting portion sizes also helps manage calorie intake.

Final Thoughts

Easy Beef Empanadas are not only quick and simple but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various fillings or serve them alongside salads and salsas for a complete meal. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comfort of homemade empanadas!