– **Title**: Easy Beef Empanadas
– **Ingredients**:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 package of refrigerated empanada dough (usually contains about 10-12 discs)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– **Instructions**:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet, breaking the meat apart with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and remove from heat. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
4. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. On a clean surface, lay out the empanada dough discs. Place about 1 tablespoon of the beef mixture in the center of each disc.
6. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal, and pinch or crimp the edges with a fork to ensure they are well sealed.
7. Place the filled empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to achieve a golden color while baking.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and serve warm. Enjoy your Easy Beef Empanadas!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main filling for your empanadas. If you want a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. For a vegetarian version, use seasoned lentils or black beans instead!
Onion: A small onion adds a great flavor base. You could swap it with shallots for a milder taste, or use green onions for a fresh twist. Just chop them finely, so they blend well.
Bell Pepper: Red or green works! If you don’t have bell peppers, you could use diced zucchini or carrots to add some color and sweetness.
Spices: Cumin and paprika add warmth. A dash of chili powder is a good substitute for a bit of heat. You can also play with smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
Empanada Dough: Pre-made dough is so convenient! If you’re feeling adventurous, make your own with flour, water, and butter. Just keep it cold for the right texture.
How Do I Make Sure My Empanadas Are Sealed Properly?
Securing the filling inside the empanadas is crucial to prevent leaks while baking! Here’s how to do it:
- After adding the filling, fold the dough over neatly. Make sure not to overfill, or it will be hard to seal.
- Press the edges together with your fingers first to create a tight seal.
- For the decorative crimp, use a fork to press down along the edges. This not only looks nice but also helps to secure the contents inside.
Feel free to practice! It’s a fun step, and you’ll get the hang of it quickly. Happy cooking!
How to Make Easy Beef Empanadas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely chopped (red or green)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Empanadas:
- 1 package of pre-made empanada dough (about 10-12 discs)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Queso fresco
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and an additional 25-30 minutes for cooking. You’ll spend a little time sautéing the filling, filling the empanadas, and baking them until they’re golden and flaky. In no time, you’ll have delicious empanadas to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it’ll be ready when you are to bake those empanadas to a perfect golden brown.
2. Cook the Filling:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they become soft and fragrant.
3. Add Beef and Spices:
Now it’s time to add the ground beef to the pan. Sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper, stirring it all together. Cook the beef for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked. Remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
4. Fill the Empanadas:
Take one disc of empanada dough and place about 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture in the center. Carefully fold the dough in half to cover the filling and pinch the edges closed. For a decorative touch, crimp the edges with a fork. Repeat this process with all the dough discs and filling.
5. Egg Wash:
Place the filled empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg; this will help them turn golden and shine when they bake.
6. Bake:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the empanadas for 20-25 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown and flaky.
7. Serve:
Once baked, take the empanadas out of the oven and let them cool for a few moments. Serve them warm with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, a wedge of lime, and some delicious queso fresco for a tasty garnish. Enjoy your homemade beef empanadas!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef. Just be aware that turkey and chicken may have a milder flavor, so you might want to add a touch more seasoning or spices to enhance the taste.
How Can I Make These Empanadas Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the empanadas up to the baking stage. After filling and sealing them, place the uncooked empanadas in an airtight container or a zip-top bag, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply brush with egg wash and bake as directed!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Empanadas?
Store any leftover baked empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months! To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Can I Use Homemade Dough Instead of Pre-Made?
Yes, you can! If you prefer to make your own empanada dough, simply prepare your favorite recipe, roll it out into discs, and proceed with the filling as directed. Homemade dough may yield a slightly different texture but will be just as delicious!
