Easy Beef Empanadas

These Easy Beef Empanadas are a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. With a flaky pie crust and a savory ground beef filling, they are not only simple to prepare but also incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a quick weeknight meal, these empanadas will surely impress everyone at the table. Ready in just 30 minutes, they stand out with their rich taste and satisfying texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of spices and cheese creates a mouthwatering filling that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for dinner, parties, or as an appetizer, these empanadas fit any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly: The handheld nature of empanadas makes them fun for kids and easy to eat!
• Make Ahead: You can prepare them in advance and freeze for later use without losing flavor.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Large skillet
• Rolling pin
• Fork (for sealing empanadas)
• Brush (for egg wash)

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick baking sheet: Ensures your empanadas don’t stick while baking, making cleanup easier.
• Rolling pin: Helps you flatten the pie crust evenly for consistent empanada sizes.
• Fork: Perfect for sealing the edges of the empanadas securely, preventing filling from leaking out.

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!

Pie Crust

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

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

Egg Wash

• 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 when your empanadas are assembled.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Prepare a cookie sheet with a baking mat, non-stick foil, parchment paper, or oil to prevent sticking. Set it aside for later.

Step 3: Cook the Filling

In a large skillet:
1. Cook the ground beef, onions, and bell pepper over medium heat until the beef is browned, onions are translucent, and peppers are soft.
2. Drain any excess fat from the mixture.
3. Add cumin, garlic, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Stir well and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 4: Roll Out Pie Crusts

Roll out each pie crust on a lightly floured surface. Using a bowl similar in size to a cereal bowl:
– Trace circles onto each pie crust. Typically, you can get three circles per crust. A smaller bowl will yield more circles.
– Combine leftover pie crusts to cut out additional circles until all dough is used (about eight total).

Step 5: Assemble Empanadas

Place one pie crust circle down on your prepared cookie sheet:
1. Add 2-3 tablespoons of the filling in the center.
2. Top with 1 tablespoon of cheese.
3. Fold the crust over to form a half-moon shape ensuring the filling stays inside.
4. Press down on the edges with a fork to seal them tightly.

Step 6: Bake Empanadas

Arrange all sealed empanadas on your cookie sheet:
– Beat an egg in a small bowl and brush it over each empanada for a golden finish.
– Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until tops are golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

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

How to Serve Easy Beef Empanadas

These Easy Beef Empanadas are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with various sides and dips. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your meal!

Fresh Salads

• Garden Salad – A crisp mix of lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette makes a refreshing contrast.
• Avocado Salad – Creamy avocados mixed with lime juice and diced onions create a zesty side.
• Coleslaw – Crunchy coleslaw adds a nice texture and tangy flavor that complements the empanadas.

Salsas

• Pico de Gallo – This fresh tomato salsa adds brightness and is perfect for dipping.
• Mango Salsa – Sweet and spicy mango salsa brings a tropical twist that pairs well with beef.
• Corn Salsa – A blend of sweet corn, bell peppers, and lime juice offers a crunchy side.

Dips

• Guacamole – Smooth and creamy guacamole is a classic pairing that enhances each bite.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream provides a cool contrast to the warmth of the empanadas.

How to Perfect Easy Beef Empanadas

To ensure your Easy Beef Empanadas turn out perfectly every time, consider these tips. They help enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Use quality beef – Opt for lean ground beef to keep your empanadas tasty without excess fat.
• Season generously – Don’t skip on spices; they are key to bringing out the flavors in your filling.
• Seal tightly – Press the edges firmly when folding to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
• Brush with egg wash – This gives your empanadas a beautiful golden color when baked.
• Bake until golden – Keep an eye on them in the oven; they should be nicely browned for the best flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Beef Empanadas

Complement your Easy Beef Empanadas with delightful side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Spanish Rice – Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices is a classic accompaniment that adds heartiness.
2. Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans offer protein and balance out the meal; serve them warm.
3. Grilled Vegetables – Zucchini, bell peppers, and onions grilled until tender add color and flavor.
4. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with butter makes for a simple yet satisfying side.
5. Chips and Salsa – Crispy tortilla chips paired with salsa provide crunch before or after the main dish.
6. Mexican Street Corn (Elote) – Grilled corn topped with cheese, lime, and spices brings bold flavors to the table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Beef Empanadas, it’s important to avoid common mistakes to ensure your dish is perfect. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong crust: Always opt for a pre-made pie crust for the best texture. Homemade dough can be more challenging and time-consuming.
• Overfilling the empanadas: Adding too much filling can cause them to burst during baking. Stick to 2-3 tablespoons of filling per empanada.
• Skipping the egg wash: An egg wash gives empanadas a beautiful golden color. Don’t skip this step; it adds that delicious finishing touch.
• Not sealing properly: Ensure you press the edges firmly with a fork to prevent any leaks. A good seal keeps the flavors inside and enhances the overall experience.
• Ignoring cooking times: Keep an eye on your empanadas while they bake. Overcooking can lead to dryness, so check them at the lower end of the baking time.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Easy Beef Empanadas

• Place uncooked empanadas in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze for about 1 hour, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container.
• Frozen empanadas can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Beef Empanadas

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Beef Empanadas:

Can I use different fillings for Easy Beef Empanadas?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other proteins like chicken or vegetables for variety.

How do I know when my empanadas are done?

Empanadas are done when they are golden brown on top, typically after 12-15 minutes at 350°F.

What can I serve with Easy Beef Empanadas?

Serve them with fresh salads, salsas, or guacamole for a delightful meal!

Can I make Easy Beef Empanadas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance and freeze them before baking. Just add extra time if baking from frozen.

Final Thoughts

Easy Beef Empanadas are not only quick and delicious but also highly versatile. You can customize them with various fillings or spices according to your taste. Try this recipe today, and enjoy these comforting treats with friends and family!