Delicious Empanadas

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Craving a handheld savory pastry that delivers comfort in every bite? Delicious Empanadas are your go-to answer. These golden pockets of flaky crust, filled with a rich, seasoned meat mixture, are the perfect fusion of texture and taste. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or looking for a flavorful make-ahead lunch, empanadas bring warmth and satisfaction to the table.

What makes empanadas universally loved is their adaptability. You can customize the filling to suit your mood or pantry—from spicy ground beef to cheesy vegetables or sweet fruit varieties. But today, we’re diving into the classic: ground beef empanadas with just the right amount of seasoning, encased in a buttery crust and baked to perfection.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you roll up your sleeves, gather these essentials:

• Mixing Bowls: To combine the filling ingredients smoothly without mess.
• Rolling Pin: Crucial for flattening the dough to an even thickness, ensuring uniform cooking.
• Empanada Press or Fork: Either helps you seal the edges properly, avoiding spills during baking.
• Baking Sheet with Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and gives your empanadas a golden, crisp bottom.
• Pastry Brush: Helps apply egg wash evenly for that appealing, shiny finish.

Each tool ensures your empanadas come out uniform, intact, and golden every time.

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Ingredients for the Delicious Empanadas

• Ground Beef: This is the heart of the empanada—savory, hearty, and flavorful.
• Onion: Adds sweet depth and aromatic complexity to the meat mixture.
• Garlic: Enhances the filling with a pungent, savory kick.
• Paprika and Cumin: The dynamic spice duo that brings warmth and smokiness.
• Tomato Paste: Thickens and intensifies the beef mixture with rich umami.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning balance.
• Empanada Dough Discs or Puff Pastry Sheets: The crispy, golden shell that holds it all together.
• Egg (for egg wash): Creates that shiny, appetizing exterior.

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How To Make the Delicious Empanadas

Step 1: Cook the Beef Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions and garlic until translucent. Add ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned. Stir in tomato paste, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes. Let the filling cool before assembling.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Roll out your dough discs or puff pastry sheets on a floured surface. Each round should be about 5-6 inches in diameter for ideal hand-pie size.

Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas

Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of filling onto the center of each dough round. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon. Press the edges together with a fork or empanada press.

Step 4: Egg Wash and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each with a beaten egg. Bake for 22-25 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let them cool slightly before serving. Best enjoyed warm with a dipping sauce or on their own.

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Serving and Storing Your Delicious Empanadas

Serve your empanadas warm with a side of chimichurri, sour cream, or a tangy salsa. They also pair beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced plate.

Leftovers? No problem. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop them in a toaster oven or air fryer at 350°F until warm and crispy again. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of meat can I use instead of ground beef?

You can substitute ground chicken, turkey, pork, or even lentils for a vegetarian option.

Can I make these empanadas ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them and freeze before baking. When ready, bake them straight from frozen—just add 5 extra minutes.

Do I have to use puff pastry?

Not at all. Traditional empanada dough or even pie crust works beautifully.

Can I fry instead of bake?

Yes, frying gives a flakier, crunchier texture. Just heat oil to 350°F and fry each empanada until golden.

How can I keep them from opening while baking?

Make sure edges are sealed well and use a fork to crimp tightly. Don’t overfill.

What sauces go well with empanadas?

Chimichurri, garlic aioli, salsa verde, or even a simple hot sauce are excellent choices.

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Want More Savory Pastry Ideas?

If empanadas are your thing, you might also enjoy the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe, where spice and comfort collide beautifully.

For a hearty pasta option, the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta offers rich, beefy flavor in every bite.

Don’t miss the Sloppy Joe Casserole—a baked dish that brings big flavor with little effort.

Or explore the layered goodness of Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta for another quick, bold meal.

If you’re looking for something ultra comforting, the Wendy’s Chili Recipe makes for a perfect pairing with empanadas on colder nights.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your snack or dinner boards for later. Just hit that Pin button.

Tried it? Let me know how it went! Did you go classic or spice it up? Leave a comment below—I love hearing your empanada stories.

And if you’re craving more, I post daily recipes on Pinterest @LadyPlate. Follow along for fresh inspiration every day.

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