Description
These golden, flaky beef empanadas are crispy on the outside and packed with a savory, spiced beef filling inside. Whether baked or fried, they make the perfect appetizer, snack, or meal. Customize them with your favorite add-ins like cheese, olives, or even a spicy kick.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or store-bought empanada discs)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, chilled and cubed
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup green olives, chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons raisins (optional)
- 1 egg (for sealing and egg wash)
- Oil (for frying, if applicable)
Instructions
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Make the Dough (If Homemade): In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly. Add egg and cold water, mixing until dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes.
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Prepare the Filling: In a pan over medium heat, cook onion and garlic until soft. Add ground beef, breaking it up as it browns. Stir in paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix in olives and raisins (if using). Let cool.
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Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll dough and cut into 5-inch circles (or use store-bought discs).
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Fill & Seal: Place a spoonful of beef filling on one side of each dough circle. Fold over and seal edges with a fork, brushing with a beaten egg.
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Bake or Fry:
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Baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush empanadas with egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.
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Frying: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry empanadas for 2-3 minutes per side until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
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Serve: Let cool slightly and serve with chimichurri, salsa, or lime wedges.
Notes
- Chill the filling before assembling to prevent soggy dough.
- Do not overfill—this helps seal the edges properly.
- For extra crispiness, brush with melted butter before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 empanada
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg