Empanadas are a classic dish enjoyed across many cultures, from Latin American to Spanish cuisine. Their crispy, golden exterior and flavorful fillings make them a go-to meal for family gatherings, snacks, or even as a main course. This easy homemade ground beef empanada recipe will show you how to create delicious empanadas from scratch without spending hours in the kitchen. Stick with us through the entire article to learn all the tips, variations, and techniques for perfect empanadas every time!

What are Ground Beef Empanadas?
Ground beef empanadas are savory pastries filled with seasoned beef, vegetables, and sometimes cheese or eggs. The beef is typically sautéed with onions, garlic, and spices before being sealed inside a dough and baked or fried. This dish originated in Spain and spread across Latin America, with each region adding its own twist to the recipe. The beauty of empanadas lies in their versatility—you can adjust the filling to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Whether you bake or fry them, empanadas are a crowd-pleaser that you can serve at any time of the day.
Ingredients List for Ground Beef Empanadas
For the dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- ½ cup cold butter (cubed)
- 1 egg
- ⅓ cup cold water
- 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider)
For the ground beef filling:
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20 for good fat content)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup tomato sauce or diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup green olives, chopped (optional)
- 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped (optional)
- ½ cup shredded cheese (optional, such as cheddar or mozzarella)
For assembly and cooking:
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Extra flour for dusting the surface
- Oil for frying (if opting to fry)
Substitutions and Variations
Empanadas are incredibly versatile, and there are countless ways to customize them according to your preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are some common substitutions and variations you can try:
- Dough Substitutes: If you're in a hurry or don't want to make dough from scratch, you can use store-bought pie dough, puff pastry, or even refrigerated biscuit dough as a shortcut.
- Protein Variations: Ground beef is the classic choice, but you can substitute it with ground chicken, turkey, or even pork. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or black beans can be excellent filling substitutes.
- Cheese Variations: Cheddar or mozzarella are traditional choices, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, feta, or even cream cheese for added richness.
- Spice Up the Flavor: If you enjoy a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to the filling.
- Additional Veggies: Add chopped bell peppers, peas, or carrots to the ground beef mixture for more texture and nutrition.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

- Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate small bowl, beat the egg, then mix it with the cold water and vinegar. Pour this liquid mixture into the flour and butter mixture, stirring with a fork until the dough starts to come together. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. - Cook the Ground Beef Filling:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant (about 3-5 minutes). Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once browned, add cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir in the tomato sauce and chopped olives (if using). Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Set aside to cool slightly before assembling the empanadas. - Roll and Cut the Dough:
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ⅛-inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass (about 4-5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles from the dough. Re-roll the scraps to get as many circles as possible. - Fill and Seal the Empanadas:
Place about 1-2 tablespoons of the ground beef filling in the center of each dough circle. If you're adding cheese, egg, or other variations, do so now. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly with your fingers, then crimp with a fork to seal them. - Brush and Bake (or Fry):
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each empanada with the beaten egg wash to give them a golden, shiny finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. If you prefer fried empanadas, heat oil in a large pot over medium heat and fry the empanadas in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until crispy and golden.
How to Cook Ground Beef Empanadas: A Step-by-Step Guide
To recap the process of making ground beef empanadas, here's a simplified breakdown:
- Make the dough and let it chill.
- Prepare the beef filling by browning ground beef with onions, garlic, and spices.
- Roll out the dough and cut into circles.
- Fill the dough circles with the beef mixture (and optional add-ins like cheese or egg).
- Seal the empanadas and either bake or fry them until golden.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling the Empanadas: It's tempting to pack as much filling as possible, but overfilling makes it difficult to seal the edges and may cause the empanadas to burst during cooking.
- Not Sealing Properly: Make sure to press the edges firmly and crimp them with a fork to avoid leaks during baking or frying.
- Skipping the Egg Wash: The egg wash gives baked empanadas a beautiful golden color. Don't skip it if you're baking!
- Under-seasoning the Filling: Since the dough is relatively neutral in flavor, the filling should be well-seasoned to ensure a tasty bite every time.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Empanadas can be served as appetizers, snacks, or even as a main dish alongside a light salad or dipping sauce. Here are a few ideas for serving and presenting them:
- Dipping Sauces: Serve your empanadas with a side of chimichurri, salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for added flavor.
- Side Dishes: Pair the empanadas with a fresh salad, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Ground Beef Empanadas
Empanadas are perfect when served fresh out of the oven or after cooling slightly. For casual gatherings, serve them on a large platter with small dipping bowls filled with your favorite sauces. For a more elegant presentation, arrange the empanadas on individual plates, garnished with fresh herbs, alongside a small salad or vegetable side.
Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Empanadas
- Rustic: Serve the empanadas on a wooden board or slate platter for a rustic, casual feel.
- Elegant: Place the empanadas on a white serving dish with decorative swirls of sauce on the side.
- Family-Style: Stack empanadas in a basket lined with a cloth napkin, perfect for grabbing and enjoying at a party or picnic.
Ground Beef Empanada Recipe Tips
- Use Cold Butter: Cold butter helps create flaky layers in the dough, so avoid overworking it and keep the dough chilled until you’re ready to use it.
- Let the Filling Cool: Warm filling can make the dough soggy and harder to work with, so let the ground beef mixture cool before filling the empanadas.
- Customize to Taste: Don't be afraid to tweak the spices or add ingredients to match your personal preferences!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I freeze empanadas?
Yes! You can freeze empanadas either before or after cooking. If freezing unbaked empanadas, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. - Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dough can be made up to two days in advance and stored in the fridge. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. - What other fillings can I use?
Besides ground beef, you can experiment with chicken, pork, or vegetarian fillings like mushrooms, beans, or cheese. - Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes, baking is a great option if you prefer a healthier alternative. Just remember to brush the empanadas with an egg wash for a golden finish.
Conclusion
Making homemade ground beef empanadas is easier than you might think, and the results are truly rewarding. With this recipe, you can create delicious, flaky empanadas that are perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to parties. Whether you bake or fry them, customize the filling, or stick with the classic recipe, you're sure to impress your guests with these tasty treats. Enjoy your cooking experience, and don’t forget to experiment with different variations! Happy empanada-making!
PrintEasy Homemade Ground Beef Empanada Recipe
This easy homemade ground beef empanada recipe is a flavorful, satisfying dish perfect for a snack or meal. With ingredients like seasoned ground beef, onions, garlic, and spices wrapped in a golden, flaky crust, this recipe is simple and packed with deliciousness. Follow the instructions to create crispy, savory empanadas in no time. Ideal for a quick weeknight meal or a party appetizer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 empanadas
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Onion
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Cumin
- Paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Empanada dough (store-bought or homemade)
- Egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Cook ground beef with onions and garlic in olive oil.
- Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Roll out empanada dough and cut into circles.
- Fill each dough circle with ground beef mixture.
- Fold, seal, and crimp edges.
- Brush with egg wash and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden.
Notes
- You can substitute beef with chicken or veggies for a different filling.
- Serve with a dipping sauce like chimichurri or salsa.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 empanada
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250 gm
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