Easy Beef Empanadas

These Easy Beef Empanadas are a delightful treat that can elevate any meal. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, these empanadas are quick to whip up and bursting with flavor. With a flaky crust and a savory beef filling, they are sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, they can be served with your favorite dips and sides, making them an excellent choice for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: These empanadas can be ready in just 30 minutes, making them ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of lean ground beef, spices, and cheese creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them as a main course or as appetizers; they’re perfect for any gathering.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add extra veggies or switch up the cheese to suit your family’s preferences.
• Easy Cleanup: Using pre-made pie crust means less mess and hassle in the kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

To make these easy beef empanadas, you will need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Cookie sheet
• Baking mat or parchment paper
• Rolling pin
• Bowl for tracing circles

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet helps cook the beef evenly and allows you to sauté vegetables perfectly.
• Cookie sheet: This is essential for baking the empanadas evenly without sticking.
• Rolling pin: A rolling pin is crucial for achieving the desired thickness of the pie crust.

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

For Topping

• 1 egg

How to Make Easy Beef Empanadas

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your empanadas bake evenly.

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 Beef Mixture

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

Step 4: Season the Filling

Add cumin, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and chili powder to the cooked beef mixture. Cook for an additional 2 minutes while stirring well.

Step 5: Roll Out Pie Crusts

Roll out your pie crusts on a clean surface:
1. Using a bowl similar in size to a cereal bowl, trace circles onto each pie crust.
2. You should get about three circles per crust; adjust size for more circles if desired.
3. Combine leftover dough and repeat until all dough is used—aiming for about eight circles total.

Step 6: Fill & Shape 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 over to form a half-moon shape.
4. Press edges down with a fork to seal.

Step 7: Bake Empanadas

Arrange filled empanadas on your prepared cookie sheet:
1. Beat one egg in a small bowl and brush it over each empanada’s top.
2. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove from oven once baked and serve warm alongside your favorite salads, salsas, or guacamole for dipping!

How to Serve Easy Beef Empanadas

Serving Easy Beef Empanadas can elevate your meal and impress your guests. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Salads

• Garden Salad – A light mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness to each bite.
• Caesar Salad – The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons complement the savory empanadas perfectly.
• Corn Salad – A sweet and tangy corn salad brings a burst of flavor that pairs well with the beef.

Accompanied by Dips

• Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip adds a rich texture that balances the spices in the empanadas.
• Salsa Verde – This zesty green salsa brings a refreshing kick that enhances the flavors.
• Chipotle Sauce – A smoky dip that provides a delightful contrast to the mild beef.

With a Side of Rice or Beans

• Spanish Rice – Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices is a hearty addition to your plate.
• Refried Beans – Creamy beans add protein and a traditional element to your meal.

How to Perfect Easy Beef Empanadas

Perfecting Easy Beef Empanadas ensures they are delicious every time you make them. Here are some tips for success.

• Use Cold Pie Crust – Keeping the crust cold helps it stay flaky while baking for better texture.
• Drain Excess Fat – After cooking the beef, draining excess fat prevents soggy empanadas.
• Seal Edges Well – Pressing edges firmly with a fork or fingers keeps filling from leaking during baking.
• Experiment with Fillings – Try adding vegetables or different cheeses for unique flavors in your empanadas.
• Brush with Egg Wash – Egg wash gives your empanadas a beautiful golden color when baked for an appealing look.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Beef Empanadas

Pairing side dishes with Easy Beef Empanadas can turn your meal into a culinary delight. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Street Corn – Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, and spices offers a tasty companion.
2. Black Bean Salad – A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and lime juice complements the empanadas well.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice – Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime makes for a zesty pairing that enhances flavors.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until crispy provide nutrition and balance to your meal.
5. Chips and Salsa – Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make for an easy appetizer before enjoying the main dish.
6. Pickled Red Onions – Tangy pickled onions add acidity and brightness that cut through the richness of the beef.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Beef Empanadas, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using stale crust – Always check the expiration date on your pre-made pie crust. Fresh dough ensures a flaky, delicious empanada.
• Overfilling – While it’s tempting to add more filling, too much can cause the empanadas to burst during baking. Stick to 2-3 tablespoons of filling for each.
• Skipping egg wash – Brushing the top with egg makes for a golden and shiny finish. Don’t skip this step for that perfect look!
• Not seasoning enough – Ground beef can be bland without proper seasoning. Make sure you use the right amounts of cumin and chili powder.
• Ignoring cooking times – Overbaking can lead to tough empanadas. Keep an eye on them; they should be golden in 12-15 minutes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Beef Empanadas

• Place uncooked empanadas on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer them to a freezer bag; they can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Beef Empanadas

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat individual empanadas on high for 30-60 seconds but expect a softer crust.
• Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Easy Beef Empanadas.

Can I make Easy Beef Empanadas ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and assemble the empanadas in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

What type of cheese works best for Easy Beef Empanadas?

Mexican blended cheese is ideal, but feel free to experiment with cheddar or Monterey Jack for different flavors.

How can I customize Easy Beef Empanadas?

You can add vegetables like corn or black beans, or spice it up with jalapeños. The filling is versatile!

Are Easy Beef Empanadas gluten-free?

To make gluten-free empanadas, use a gluten-free pie crust instead of regular pie crust.

Final Thoughts

Easy Beef Empanadas are a delightful meal option that combines flavor with convenience. They’re perfect for weeknight dinners or as snacks at gatherings. Feel free to customize the fillings based on your preferences—this recipe is all about making it your own!