Easy Beef Empanadas Recipe That’s Crispy, Juicy, and Simple to Make

Why This Easy Beef Empanadas Recipe Became a Family Staple

A bite of tradition with a personal twist

Easy beef empanadas recipe—those four words changed the way I approached quick comfort food. I wasn’t looking for something fancy, just a reliable dish that felt special without hours in the kitchen. The first time I made beef empanadas from scratch, I was chasing a memory: the savory hand pies my grandmother used to make during family weekends. Hers were always fried and stuffed with perfectly spiced meat that clung to every flake of pastry.

I didn’t have her exact recipe, but after testing a few variations, I landed on my own twist that’s just as comforting—and a lot easier. This homemade beef empanada version keeps things simple with ground beef, bell peppers, onion, and a quick spice blend that brings out every flavor. Whether I bake or fry them depends on the day, but either way, they come out golden, crisp, and delicious.

They’ve since become my go-to dish when I need something crowd-pleasing and freezer-friendly. I even keep a few batches on hand for after-school snacks or last-minute guests.

Family comfort wrapped in golden pastry

Beyond the flaky crust and savory filling, what I love most about this easy beef empanadas recipe is the nostalgia it carries. It’s the kind of dish that turns ordinary moments into something memorable. From mixing the filling to folding the dough, there’s something joyful in the process—especially when the kids get involved.

Pair it with a warm side like this hearty pinto bean chili or a twist like garlic bread grilled cheese and you’ve got a meal that hits every note: crispy, savory, and straight-up satisfying.

Simple enough for weeknights, special enough for weekends—this recipe is here to stay.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

What You Need for the Perfect Easy Beef Empanadas Recipe

Classic beef empanada filling ingredients

A truly easy beef empanadas recipe starts with bold flavors and balanced textures. The filling is the soul of the empanada—rich, savory, and aromatic. The best part? You don’t need anything complicated. This recipe uses simple pantry staples to create a deeply flavorful mix that rivals your favorite takeout.

Here’s what goes into a great beef empanada filling:

• Ground beef – 85% lean is ideal for richness without too much grease
• Onion and garlic – for aromatic depth
• Bell pepper – red or green for sweetness and crunch
• Tomato paste – adds a touch of acidity and thickness
• Paprika, cumin, oregano – the core of a bold empanada seasoning blend
• Salt and black pepper – to balance it all out

For extra flavor, a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of smoked paprika works wonders. And if you like heat? Toss in chili flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

This ground beef empanada base also works beautifully in other meals—think stuffed peppers or a layered casserole like this French onion hashbrown bake for a comfort-loaded combo.

Easy empanada dough recipe for flaky results

Don’t let dough intimidate you. You don’t need a culinary degree to nail this part of the easy beef empanadas recipe. In fact, the dough comes together with just a few ingredients:

• All-purpose flour
• Cold butter or shortening
• Ice water
• Salt
• Optional: egg yolk for richness

Mix until crumbly, add water gradually, and knead just enough to form a smooth dough. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes—this makes it easier to roll and helps it crisp up in the oven or fryer.

No time for homemade? Store-bought pie dough or pastry sheets work in a pinch, but nothing beats the flakiness of empanada dough from scratch. And if you want to round out your meal, try pairing your empanadas with a veggie-forward dish like these honey-roasted carrots with cranberries for the perfect sweet-savory balance.

How to Make Beef Empanadas Like a Pro (Baked or Fried)

From stovetop to pastry: prepping your filling

Making this easy beef empanadas recipe from scratch is easier than you think. The process starts with building a deeply savory filling. That’s where all the magic happens. You want bold flavors that pop—nothing bland allowed.

Start by sautéing chopped onion and garlic in a bit of olive oil until soft and golden. Add your ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned. Then toss in diced bell pepper, a spoonful of tomato paste, and your seasoning mix—paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer until thickened. Taste and adjust the spices if needed.

Let the mixture cool before using it in your dough. This helps prevent soggy pockets and gives the filling time to develop even more flavor. If you’re making a batch ahead of time, this filling stores well in the fridge for 2–3 days.

If you love bold beef recipes, this same seasoned mixture works perfectly in other dishes like these mongolian ground beef noodles—a fun twist when you’re not in the mood for pastry.

Folding, sealing & choosing how to cook

Roll out your empanada dough from scratch (or store-bought dough) into 5-inch circles. Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling in the center. Don’t overfill! Fold the dough over into a half-moon shape and seal the edges. Use a fork to crimp or try a braided twist for a traditional look.

Now it’s decision time: bake or fry?

• To bake: Preheat to 400°F. Brush each empanada with an egg wash for that golden shine. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until crisp and golden.
• To fry: Heat a neutral oil (like canola or vegetable) to 350°F. Fry in batches until deeply golden—about 3 minutes per side.

Either way, the results are crispy on the outside and juicy inside. That’s what makes this easy beef empanadas recipe a keeper: no matter your method, it always delivers.

Want a bonus snack idea while these bake? Prep a quick batch of air fryer cheeseburger bombs to keep hungry hands busy.

Should You Bake or Fry Empanadas? Let’s Compare

Benefits of baking empanadas at home

When it comes to making the perfect easy beef empanadas recipe, the most common question I get is: Is it better to fry or bake empanadas? The answer depends on what you’re looking for—both methods have their strengths.

Baking empanadas is my go-to method for several reasons:

• Healthier: No added oil or deep-frying needed
• Less mess: No splattering or greasy cleanup
• Meal prep-friendly: You can bake a big batch all at once
• Even texture: Golden, crisp crust with a tender bite

To get that iconic golden shine, brush each empanada with egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water). Then bake at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and flaky.

Baking works especially well if you’re making larger batches for events or freezing for future meals. I often prep two trays: one to eat, and one to freeze after baking—just like I do with stuffed peppers for grab-and-go dinners.

Frying tips and the best oils to use

But let’s be honest: nothing beats that extra-crispy finish you get from frying. If you’re going for indulgent and crave-worthy, frying is a fantastic option for this easy beef empanadas recipe.

Here’s how to get it right:

• Use a neutral oil with high smoke point—canola, vegetable, or peanut oil work best.
• Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep skillet or fryer.
• Fry 2–3 empanadas at a time to avoid overcrowding.
• Cook each side for 2–3 minutes, flipping once, until golden.

Drain them on paper towels and serve warm. The crust turns shatteringly crisp, and the beef inside stays juicy and full of flavor.

If you’re making a full-on comfort food night, pair them with creamy lemon garlic butter beans or a tangy side like Hawaiian macaroni salad for the ultimate balance.

How to Store and Reheat Your Beef Empanadas

Freezing and reheating tips

One of the best things about this easy beef empanadas recipe is how perfectly it fits into a make-ahead meal strategy. Whether you’re prepping for busy weekdays, a holiday gathering, or game day, beef empanadas are freezer gold.

Here’s how to freeze before baking:

1. Assemble and seal your empanadas fully.
2. Place them on a parchment-lined tray and freeze flat for 1–2 hours.
3. Once frozen solid, transfer to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container.
4. Label with the date and type—your future self will thank you!

To bake from frozen, add 5–8 extra minutes to the normal bake time. So instead of 25 minutes at 400°F, plan for 30–33 minutes. Always check that the internal filling is hot and the crust is golden brown.

Already baked? No problem! Cool completely before freezing. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 10–12 minutes, or air fry at 350°F for 6–8 minutes. Avoid the microwave unless you’re okay with soggy results.

These freeze-and-bake instructions also apply to similar recipes like air fryer cheeseburger bombs, which follow the same crispy-dough, savory-filling concept.

Making ahead for meal prep or parties

Want to make a party platter of these ahead of time? Prep everything up to a day in advance. Store the filling separately in an airtight container and roll out your dough just before assembling. This keeps the crust from getting too soft before baking or frying.

For longer prep cycles—like weekend meal prep—I’ll bake a batch, freeze half, and reheat during the week. They make incredible lunchbox additions or pair beautifully with a bold side like detox southwest chicken soup for a lighter contrast.

Because these empanadas hold up so well, they’ve become one of my most reliable recipes—not just for flavor, but for flexibility. Whether you’re planning ahead or using leftovers, this easy beef empanadas recipe keeps delivering long after the first batch is gone.

Empanada Filling Ideas and What to Serve With Them

Beef empanada seasoning twists

The beauty of this easy beef empanadas recipe is how effortlessly you can make it your own. The base filling—seasoned ground beef, onion, and pepper—is perfect as is, but small adjustments give it a global flair that keeps things exciting.

Want to try some empanada filling ideas? Here are a few variations I love:

• Mexican-inspired: Add black beans, corn, jalapeños, and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese. A dash of taco seasoning brings extra heat.
• Argentinian-style: Stir in green olives and chopped hard-boiled eggs for authentic texture and bold flavor.
• Smoky chipotle: Add adobo sauce or chipotle powder for a smoky kick and deep richness.
• Cheesy twist: Mix in mozzarella or queso fresco just before filling the dough for gooey centers.
• Bold BBQ: Combine cooked beef with BBQ sauce and red onion—think pulled beef in pastry.

These subtle changes transform your homemade beef empanadas into something completely new—without changing the dough or cooking process. It’s a simple way to avoid flavor fatigue, especially if you make them often for weeknight meals.

Want a flavor-packed side to go with your spiced-up empanadas? Pair them with a bold veggie dish like smoked chuck roast or a tangy balance like cranberry orange bread with glaze.

Easy side dishes for a complete meal

Empanadas are perfect hand-held meals, but adding a few simple sides takes them from snack to full-on feast. If you’re entertaining or meal-prepping, round things out with:

• Fresh slaw with lime vinaigrette for brightness
• Mexican rice or cilantro-lime quinoa
• Black bean salad with corn and avocado
• Roasted sweet potatoes or plantains for a sweet-savory combo
• Simple green salad with a spicy dressing for balance

On chillier days, I love pairing my easy beef empanadas recipe with a cozy bowl of creamy lemon garlic butter beans or even a hearty soup like French onion hashbrown casserole to turn it into serious comfort food.

From classic to creative, the pairing possibilities are endless—and no matter how you serve them, empanadas always steal the show.

Beef Empanadas – Questions People Ask

Wrap It Up With a Golden Bite

If there’s one recipe that never fails me—whether I’m feeding guests, prepping for the week, or simply craving something warm and filling—it’s this easy beef empanadas recipe. From the buttery, golden crust to the savory spiced filling, every bite is packed with flavor and comfort.

What makes this recipe so special isn’t just how it tastes—it’s how flexible it is. Whether you bake or fry, use classic ground beef or experiment with fillings, this dish always delivers. You can serve it fresh, freeze it for later, or pair it with flavorful sides like stuffed peppers or a simple salad.

More than a meal, this recipe is a moment. One that brings people together around the table, wrapped in flaky pastry and shared with love.

If you want to explore even more variations and inspiration, check out this authentic beef empanadas recipe from AllRecipes—a classic take that’s worth bookmarking too.

Now it’s your turn: roll the dough, spice the beef, and create a tray full of golden, crispy goodness. This easy beef empanadas recipe isn’t just easy—it’s unforgettable.

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