When the weekend rolls around, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly cooked Beef Empanadas filling the kitchen. As I prepare the savory filling, the blend of seasoned ground beef, sweet raisins, and bright green peas creates a tantalizing fusion that reminds me of cherished family gatherings. These traditional Filipino empanadas are more than just a meal; they embody warmth, nostalgia, and a sense of home.
Whether you’re hosting a fun gathering or simply enjoying a cozy dinner with loved ones, this Beef Empanadas recipe is your ticket to homemade perfection. With a flaky crust that’s golden and crisp on the outside and a deliciously hearty filling within, these empanadas are both easy to make and absolutely crowd-pleasing. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and bring a taste of Filipino culinary tradition to your table!
Why are Beef Empanadas a must-try?
Homemade Goodness: Nothing beats the satisfaction of creating these crispy, flaky delights from scratch.
Flavor Explosion: The blend of savory beef and sweet raisins provides an irresistible flavor contrast that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Time-Friendly: You can whip these up quickly, making them the perfect choice for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
Family Bonding: Cooking together is a fantastic way to bond; let everyone help with shaping and sealing the empanadas!
Versatile Snack: Serve them as a party appetizer or as a delicious main course, paired with your choice of dipping sauce for added flair!
Beef Empanadas Recipe Ingredients
• Delight in the simplicity of homemade Beef Empanadas with these essential ingredients!
For the Filling
- Ground Beef (1 lb, 85% lean) – Choose a good quality beef for optimal flavor in your empanadas.
- Raisins (1/2 cup) – Adds a hint of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory meat; consider a swap with chopped dried apricots for variety.
- Green Peas (1/2 cup) – Provides color and nutrition; feel free to use frozen peas for convenience.
- Yellow Onion (1, minced) – Enhances the overall flavor when sautéed; shallots are a great substitute for a milder taste.
- Beef Broth (1/2 cup) – Moistens the filling and enhances flavor; homemade broth will take it to the next level.
- Salt (1 tsp) – Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
- Paprika (1/2 tsp) – Adds subtle warmth and color; try smoked paprika for an extra flavor dimension.
- Ground Black Pepper (1/2 tsp) – A crucial seasoning that balances the overall taste.
- Granulated White Sugar (1 tsp) – Helps to balance out the savory elements in the filling.
- Cooking Oil (2 tbsp) – Necessary for sautéing the filling perfectly.
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour (3 cups) – Forms the structure of the empanada crust; the backbone of your recipe.
- Unsalted Butter (1 cup, cold, cut into 8 parts) – Ensures a flaky texture; avoid margarine for best results.
- Baking Powder (1/2 tsp) – Contributes to the lightness of the empanada dough.
- Salt (1/2 tsp) – Enhances the flavor of the dough.
- Granulated White Sugar (3 tbsp) – Adds a slight sweetness and aids in browning.
- Ice Cold Water (6 tbsp) – Helps to bring the dough together without melting the butter for a flaky crust.
For Frying
- Cooking Oil (3 cups) – Essential for frying; a high smoke point oil like canola or vegetable oil is ideal for this task.
How to Make Beef Empanadas
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Prepare the Filling: Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the minced onion until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the ground beef, cooking until well browned, which should take approximately 5 minutes. Stir in the raisins, paprika, sugar, and salt, then pour in the beef broth. Cover and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the flavors meld. Uncover to let the liquid reduce, then fold in the green peas, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. Set aside to cool.
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Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually stir in 6 tablespoons of ice-cold water until it comes together into a dough. Shape the dough into balls and refrigerate for 20-25 minutes.
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Assemble the Empanadas: Roll each dough ball into a circle about 4-5 inches wide. Place 4-5 tablespoons of the cooled filling into the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to enclose the filling and seal the edges using a fork or by crimping with fingers to ensure a secure closure.
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Fry the Empanadas: Heat 3 cups of cooking oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the empanadas in batches, frying for 3-5 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels. Transfer to a serving plate, and enjoy!
Optional: Serve with a tangy dipping sauce for extra flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Beef Empanadas
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Chill the Dough: Keep your dough cold to ensure extra flakiness. If it warms up, it can become tough when fried or baked.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature; overcrowding can lead to greasy empanadas that don’t crisp properly.
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Use High-Quality Oil: For the best frying results, choose oil with a high smoke point, like canola or vegetable oil, to avoid off-flavors.
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Seal Well: Make sure to crimp or press the edges of the empanadas securely to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.
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Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to personalize your Beef Empanadas recipe by adding herbs or spices to the filling, enhancing the traditional flavors even further.
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Perfect Serving Temperature: Allow the empanadas to drain on paper towels for a minute before serving. This will help maintain their crunch and prevent sogginess.
What to Serve with Beef Empanadas?
Elevate your mealtime experience by pairing these delightful bites with complementary sides and drinks that will make every bite a celebration.
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Spicy Dipping Sauce: A zesty salsa or a creamy garlic dip adds an exciting kick, enhancing the savory flavor of the empanadas.
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Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the rich filling, balancing the meal beautifully.
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Garlic Rice: Flavorful rice cooked with garlic makes for a delightful side that ties the meal together and soaks up every last bit of sauce.
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Mango Chutney: This sweet and tangy condiment brings an exotic touch, adding complexity while complementing the sweetness of the raisins in the empanadas.
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Pickled Vegetables: A tangy mix of pickled carrots and radishes creates a crunchy side that cuts through the richness of the beef, offering a vibrant flavor punch.
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Chilled Coconut Drink: Refreshing coconut juice or a coconut smoothie makes for a luscious pairing that brings a tropical flair to your dining experience.
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Cheesy Corn Casserole: Creamy and cheesy, this decadent dish adds a comforting element to your meal, making it feel extra special for family gatherings.
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Fruit Salad: A light, seasonal fruit salad is perfect for cleansing the palate and providing a burst of sweetness after indulging in flavorful empanadas.
Make Ahead Options
These Beef Empanadas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time in the kitchen! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance by cooking it as directed, allowing it to cool, then transferring it to an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can assemble the empanadas and place them on a baking sheet, covered tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying. To maintain their flaky texture, ensure the filling is completely cool before sealing. When ready to enjoy, simply fry them straight from the fridge or allow them to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes for even cooking. Enjoy the convenience of these delicious Beef Empanadas while still delivering a homemade touch!
How to Store and Freeze Beef Empanadas
Fridge: Keep cooked beef empanadas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This allows you to enjoy your delicious homemade snacks during the week!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked empanadas on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 1 month.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your beef empanadas, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare empanadas in advance and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking or frying for a quick, delicious meal.
Beef Empanadas Variations
Customize your empanadas with these fun twists and substitutions that will delight your taste buds!
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Poultry Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter filling that still packs a punch of flavor.
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Veggie Delight: Mix in diced potatoes or carrots to the filling for added heartiness and texture, making each bite robust and satisfying.
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Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to amp up the heat and bring an exciting twist to the traditional flavor profile.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the filling for a refreshing touch that brightens up the overall taste.
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Cheesy Goodness: Mix in shredded cheese such as cheddar or queso blanco into the filling for a gooey, decadent surprise in each bite.
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Sweet Variation: Add diced apples or pears to introduce a sweet contrast, harmonizing beautifully with the savory beef and raisins.
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Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy empanadas while accommodating dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
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Baking Alternative: For a healthier twist, bake your empanadas instead! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Beef Empanadas Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ground beef for my empanadas?
Absolutely! When selecting ground beef for your empanadas, look for meat that is 85% lean. This ensures a good balance of flavor and juiciness without excessive grease. Avoid beef that has dark spots or any strange odor; fresh beef should have a bright red color and firm texture.
How should I store my cooked beef empanadas?
You can keep your delicious cooked beef empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They make an excellent snack or meal throughout the week! Just make sure they have cooled completely before sealing to keep them from becoming soggy.
Can I freeze my beef empanadas?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your uncooked beef empanadas, lay them on a baking sheet without touching each other and freeze until solid. This typically takes about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, where they can be stored for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until they’re heated through and crispy.
What should I do if my empanada dough seems tough or chewy?
Very important! If your dough is tough or chewy, it may be due to overworking it or using warm ingredients. Make sure to keep your dough cold and only mix it until just combined. If you’ve rolled it out too much, try refrigerating the dough for at least 15 minutes to relax the gluten before shaping your empanadas.
Are beef empanadas safe for my pets?
While beef empanadas are a delicious treat for humans, they contain ingredients like onions and seasoning that are not safe for pets. It’s best to stick to dedicated pet treats for your furry friends and ensure they don’t nibble on your empanadas!
What’s the best way to reheat frozen empanadas?
To reheat your frozen beef empanadas, no need to thaw! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the frozen empanadas for about 25-30 minutes. This method helps restore their crispy texture while thoroughly heating the filling. Enjoy your warm, delicious treat fresh out of the oven!
Delicious Beef Empanadas Recipe Your Family Will Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Filling: Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté minced onion until soft and translucent. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in raisins, paprika, sugar, and salt, then pour in beef broth. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Uncover to let liquid reduce, then fold in peas and cook for 2 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually stir in ice-cold water until combined into a dough. Shape into balls and refrigerate for 20-25 minutes.
- Assemble the Empanadas: Roll each dough ball into a circle. Place filling in the center, fold dough over, and seal edges using a fork.
- Fry the Empanadas: Heat cooking oil in a deep pot to 350°F. Carefully add empanadas in batches, frying until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.