Delicious Beef Empanadas Recipe

Beef empanadas are a delightful treat that brings together the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef encased in a perfectly flaky crust. This dish is popular across many cultures but is particularly loved in Latin American countries. Making beef empanadas at home allows you to customize the filling to your taste while enjoying the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch. In this recipe, I’ll share my secrets for achieving a golden-brown crust and a savory filling that will have you craving more. Whether you’re serving them as appetizers at a party or as a main dish for family dinner, these empanadas are sure to impress. With simple ingredients and clear instructions, you’ll find that making these tasty treats is easier than you might think. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

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Why You’ll Love This Beef Empanadas

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for Beef Empanadas

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use high-quality lean ground beef for a flavorful filling without too much grease.
• Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth to the savory filling.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves offer robust flavor; aim for about two cloves minced.
• Pimento Peppers: These add color and a slight tang; use either jarred or fresh pimentos.
• Egg Yolk: For brushing on the empanada tops before baking, giving them a beautiful golden color.
• Empanada Dough Discs: You can purchase pre-made dough or make your own from scratch using flour, butter, salt, and water.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

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How to Make Beef Empanadas

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef along with chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and onions are soft.

Step 2: Add Additional Ingredients

Stir in pimento peppers along with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional five minutes until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Cool the Mixture

Remove the skillet from heat and let your meat mixture cool slightly while you prepare the dough.

Step 4: Assemble Empanadas

Take an empanada disc and place about one tablespoon of filling in the center. Fold over to create a half-moon shape, pressing edges with a fork to seal.

Step 5: Brush with Egg Yolk

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place assembled empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each one with egg yolk for a shiny finish.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown.

Transfer to plates and enjoy warm!

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
• Dough Handling: Keep dough discs covered with plastic wrap while assembling to prevent drying out
• Spice It Up: Feel free to add spices like cumin or paprika to enhance flavor just before cooking the meat

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How to Serve Beef Empanadas

This Beef Empanadas is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling for Beef Empanadas up to two days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also assemble the empanadas and freeze them before baking. Just wrap each uncooked empanada tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
• Storing: Leftover cooked Beef Empanadas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Place them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Ensure they are cooled completely before placing them in containers or bags.
• Reheating: To reheat Beef Empanadas, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the empanadas on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about one minute on high, but this may make the pastry less crispy.

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Suggestions for Beef Empanadas

Choose the Right Meat

Selecting the right type of beef is crucial for delicious Beef Empanadas. Ground beef is commonly used, but don’t overlook options like flank steak or chuck roast. These cuts provide richer flavors and a more satisfying texture. When grinding your meat, aim for an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio to ensure juiciness without excess grease. Overcooking the meat can lead to dryness, so cook it just until browned and fully seasoned. Seasoning is also key; include ingredients like garlic, onions, and spices to enhance the flavor profile. This careful selection will elevate your empanadas from good to unforgettable.

Avoid Overfilling

When making Beef Empanadas, it’s tempting to load them up with filling, but this can lead to a messy outcome. Overfilling may cause the dough to tear during baking or frying, resulting in leakage and loss of flavor. Aim for about one tablespoon of filling per empanada. This amount allows enough room for the dough to be sealed properly while still delivering a hearty bite. Gently press down on the edges after adding the filling to ensure a tight seal. Remember, it’s better to underfill than overfill; you can always serve extra filling on the side.

Perfect Your Dough

The dough is just as important as the filling in Beef Empanadas. A common mistake is using store-bought dough that lacks freshness and quality. Instead, try making your own dough using flour, butter, and water for a flaky texture that complements your beef filling perfectly. Ensure you knead it well but avoid overworking it; this keeps the dough tender. Additionally, let the dough rest in the refrigerator before rolling it out; this helps in achieving a better consistency and prevents shrinking when baked or fried.

Master Sealing Techniques

Sealing your Beef Empanadas properly is essential for keeping all that flavorful filling inside during cooking. Many people neglect this step or don’t seal their empanadas securely enough. Use a fork or your fingers to crimp the edges tightly after folding them over. If necessary, brush some water along the edges before sealing; this helps create a better bond between the dough layers. Consider trying different sealing techniques like braiding or twisting for visual appeal while ensuring they stay intact during cooking.

FAQs

What are traditional spices used in Beef Empanadas?

When preparing Beef Empanadas, various spices enhance their flavor significantly. Commonly used spices include cumin, paprika, and black pepper, which add warmth and depth to the beef mixture. Some recipes also incorporate oregano or bay leaves for additional aroma and taste complexity. Fresh ingredients like garlic and onions are essential as they create a base flavor that complements the spices well. Adjust these seasonings based on personal preference; some may prefer spicier versions by adding chili powder or even diced jalapeños.

Can I make Beef Empanadas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Beef Empanadas ahead of time! This makes them an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining guests without last-minute stress. After assembling them, you have two choices: refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours or freeze them for longer storage periods (up to three months). When freezing, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid before transferring them to airtight containers or freezer bags. Cooking straight from frozen might require additional time, so keep an eye on them while they bake.

What types of cheese pair well with Beef Empanadas?

Cheese can elevate your Beef Empanadas’ flavor profile wonderfully. Popular choices include mozzarella for its mildness and gooey texture when melted inside the empanada. Another great option is cheddar cheese; its sharpness adds depth that pairs nicely with seasoned beef filling. For something more exotic, try adding crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese for a tangy contrast that complements savory flavors beautifully. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses based on your taste preferences.

How do I know when my empanadas are cooked perfectly?

Knowing when your Beef Empanadas are perfectly cooked involves observing both color and texture indicators during baking or frying. If you’re baking them at 375°F (190°C), expect about 25-30 minutes until they turn golden brown on top; this indicates proper cooking inside as well as out. In frying scenarios, aim for a crispy exterior that achieves a rich golden hue within about 3-5 minutes per side on medium heat; maintain vigilance as frying times can vary based on oil temperature.

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Conclusion for Beef Empanadas

Beef Empanadas are not only delicious but also versatile treats perfect for various occasions from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. By avoiding common mistakes such as overfilling and under-sealing your empanadas while mastering your dough-making technique enhances overall results significantly. Remember to choose quality meat and season it well with traditional spices for maximum flavor impact! Preparing these delightful snacks ahead of time allows flexibility when hosting guests or enjoying meal prep days at home! Following these guidelines ensures you’ll impress everyone who takes a bite of your homemade Beef Empanadas!

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