What to put in beef empanadas?

The most common ingredients in an easy beef empanadas recipe include ground beef, onion, garlic, bell pepper, and a mix of spices like paprika, cumin, and oregano. Some versions add hard-boiled eggs, olives, or cheese for more flavor. You can even customize the filling with seasonal vegetables or spiced beans to add variety.

What is the secret to a good empanada?

The secret to a great easy beef empanadas recipe lies in two things: flaky dough and a well-seasoned filling. Use cold butter or shortening in the dough and let it chill before rolling. For the filling, cook your beef with bold spices and let it cool completely before sealing. Always avoid overfilling—this ensures they stay sealed and cook evenly.

What is empanada filling made of?

Empanada filling can vary, but a traditional beef empanada filling usually includes ground beef, onions, garlic, peppers, and spices. In this easy beef empanadas recipe, we keep it simple yet flavorful with a homemade seasoning blend and optional add-ins like olives or cheese. It’s a balance of texture, moisture, and savory depth.

Is it better to fry or bake empanadas?

Both frying and baking work for this easy beef empanadas recipe, and the choice depends on your preferences. Baking is healthier, easier, and less messy. Frying delivers an ultra-crispy crust and deeper color. No matter which you choose, the filling stays juicy, and the flavor stays big. Just make sure your dough is sealed well before cooking.

How many minutes do you bake empanadas?

In this easy beef empanadas recipe, the ideal baking time is 20 to 25 minutes at 400°F. For frozen empanadas, increase the time to 30 to 33 minutes. Use egg wash on top for that signature golden-brown finish. Check for a crisp outer crust and hot filling to ensure they’re fully baked.

Which oil is best for frying empanadas?

The best oil for frying this easy beef empanadas recipe is one with a high smoke point and neutral flavor—like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil. Heat it to 350°F and fry your empanadas for about 2–3 minutes per side. Always drain them on paper towels to keep the crust light and crispy.

Easy Beef Empanadas Recipe – 5 Irresistible Twists

Name: Easy Beef Empanadas Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lb ground beef (85% lean); 1 small bell pepper, diced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional); ½ cup shredded cheese (optional); 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); 2½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 egg yolk; ½ cup ice water (add gradually)

Description

This easy beef empanadas recipe features a savory, spiced ground beef filling wrapped in flaky, golden pastry. Bake or fry for the perfect handheld comfort food—ideal for meal prep, parties, or a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
1 small bell pepper, diced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
½ cup shredded cheese (optional)
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

For the Dough:

2½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
1 teaspoon salt
1 egg yolk
½ cup ice water (add gradually)

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Instructions

In a skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté onion and garlic until soft.
Add ground beef and brown evenly. Stir in bell pepper and tomato paste.
Season with paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add Worcestershire if using. Cook until thickened. Let cool.
In a bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly. Add egg yolk and water until dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 400°F (if baking). Roll dough and cut into 5-inch rounds.
Add 2–3 tbsp filling to each circle. Top with cheese if using. Fold and crimp edges.
Brush with egg wash. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden.
For frying: Heat oil to 350°F. Fry 2–3 empanadas at a time for 2–3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

Notes

Freeze unbaked empanadas for up to 2 months.

Add olives or boiled egg for a traditional twist.

Pair with salsa, chimichurri, or garlic yogurt dip.

Baked version is great for meal prep.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner, Appetizer
Method: Baked or Fried
Cuisine: Latin American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 empanada
Calories: 260 kcal
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 290mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 21g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 40mg