Beef Empanadas – Crispy, Savory & Packed with Flavor

Whenever I want a handheld meal that’s comforting and full of bold flavor, I make Beef Empanadas. These golden pastries are filled with seasoned beef, wrapped in flaky dough, and baked until crisp. They’re perfect for snacks, parties, or a fun family dinner — and once you make them, it’s hard to stop at just one.

Quick Facts

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cooking Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

• Serving Size: 10–12 empanadas

Why You’ll Love These Beef Empanadas

These empanadas are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The beef filling is savory, mildly spiced, and incredibly satisfying. I love that they’re easy to make using store-bought dough and can be baked instead of fried. They’re great for make-ahead meals and freeze beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1/4 cup chopped olives or bell peppers (optional)

• 1 package empanada dough or refrigerated pie dough

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

How I Make My Beef Empanadas

Step 1: Cook the Beef Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add onion and cook until soft.

3. Stir in garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.

4. Add ground beef and cook until browned.

5. Let the filling cool slightly.

Step 2: Fill & Shape

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Place a spoonful of beef filling in the center of each dough circle.

3. Fold over and seal edges with a fork.

Step 3: Bake Until Golden

1. Brush empanadas with beaten egg.

2. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.

Crispy, savory, and full of flavor!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with salsa, chimichurri, or garlic sauce.

• Pair with a fresh salad or rice.

• Enjoy as an appetizer or main dish.

• Serve warm with a squeeze of lime.

Tips for Customization

• Make them spicy: Add chili flakes or jalapeños.

• Add cheese: Mix in shredded cheddar or mozzarella.

• Different meats: Try chicken, turkey, or beef and potato.

• Fried version: Fry in hot oil for extra crispiness.

• Mini empanadas: Perfect for parties and snacks.

Nutritional Info (Approx. per empanada)

• Calories: 220–260

• Carbs: 18–22g

• Fat: 12–15g

• Protein: 10–12g

FAQs

1. Can I make empanadas ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble and refrigerate or freeze before baking.

2. How do I keep empanadas from leaking?

Don’t overfill and seal edges firmly with a fork.

3. Can I use puff pastry instead of empanada dough?

Yes, but the texture will be lighter and flakier.

4. Can I freeze cooked empanadas?

Absolutely — reheat in the oven for best results.

Final Bite

These Beef Empanadas are crispy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and perfect for any occasion. Once you try them, they’re sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.