These Easy Beef Empanadas are a delightful fusion of savory beef, melted cheese, and flavorful spices, all encased in a flaky pie crust. Perfect as appetizers, snacks, or even a light meal, they bring a taste of Latin American cuisine to your table with minimal effort.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Beef Filling:

• 2 tablespoons oil, divided
• ½ cup finely diced onion
• 1–2 jalapeños, seeded and finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ pound ground beef (90/10 lean)
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup canned corn, drained

For the Empanadas:

• 2 (9-inch) pre-made pie crusts
• ½ cup refried black beans
• ½ cup finely shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon milk (regular or plant-based)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of oil.
   • Sauté the diced onions and jalapeños for 2–3 minutes until tender.
   • Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
   • Push the vegetables to the side, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and ground beef.
   • Cook the beef for 7–8 minutes, breaking it into small pieces.
   • Stir in taco seasoning, tomato paste, salt, and pepper.
   • Gradually add chicken broth, stirring well between additions.
   • Mix in the corn and let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. Prepare the Dough:
   • Lightly flour a cutting board and roll out the pie crusts.
   • Using a 4½-inch round cutter, cut out 12 circles, re-rolling the dough as needed.
4. Assemble the Empanadas:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk to create an egg wash.
   • Brush the edges of each dough circle with the egg wash.
   • Slightly off-center, spread ½ tablespoon of refried beans, add 1½ tablespoons of beef filling, and sprinkle ½ tablespoon of shredded cheese.
   • Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, pressing the edges to seal.
   • Crimp the edges with a fork, being careful not to pierce through the dough.
5. Bake:
   • Place the empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them at least 1 inch apart.
   • Brush the tops with the remaining egg wash.
   • Bake for 20–22 minutes until the crusts are golden brown.
   • Allow to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Facts (Per Empanada)

• Calories: 245 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Total Fat: 16 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2 g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Cholesterol: 32 mg
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Potassium: 153 mg
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Vitamin A: 235 IU
• Vitamin C: 3 mg
• Calcium: 52 mg
• Iron: 2 mg

History and Cultural Significance of Empanadas

Empanadas have a long history that spans across many countries, particularly in Spain, South America, and the Caribbean. The word “empanada” comes from the Spanish verb “empanar,” which means “to coat or wrap in bread.” These savory pastries are thought to have originated in Spain, with the earliest known references to the dish dating back to the 16th century. From there, they spread to Latin America, where each country adapted the recipe to include local ingredients and flavors.

In countries like Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay, empanadas are often filled with a combination of beef, onions, olives, and hard-boiled eggs, and are traditionally baked or fried to a crisp golden perfection. While the specific fillings and cooking methods may vary, empanadas remain a beloved dish that has stood the test of time, evolving through the generations.

Empanadas are often seen as comfort food, bringing families together during holidays, special occasions, or simply as a quick, satisfying meal after a long day. The versatility of the empanada allows it to be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even a main course, depending on its size and filling. Easy Beef Empanadas are especially popular due to their simplicity and the ease with which they can be made at home, requiring only a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time.

Why Easy Beef Empanadas?

There are countless ways to make empanadas, but the Easy Beef Empanada recipe stands out for several reasons. First and foremost, it is incredibly simple to prepare, making it accessible even to beginner cooks. The use of pre-made pie crusts eliminates the need to make dough from scratch, saving time and effort without compromising flavor or texture.

Additionally, the filling is straightforward but full of flavor. Ground beef, seasoned with a blend of spices, offers a rich and savory base that pairs perfectly with the mild sweetness of corn and the kick of jalapeños. Adding a little cheese gives the filling an extra layer of indulgence, while the refried beans provide a creamy texture that complements the crispy crust.

One of the best things about Easy Beef Empanadas is their versatility. You can easily customize the filling to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. For example, if you’re not a fan of spicy foods, you can omit the jalapeños and use a milder pepper. Alternatively, you can switch out the ground beef for chicken or even vegetables for a vegetarian version. The recipe also lends itself to a variety of dips and sauces, such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream, making it easy to elevate the dish and serve it alongside your favorite accompaniments.

The Perfect Snack or Meal

Empanadas are not only delicious but incredibly versatile in terms of when and how they can be served. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a quick meal for your family, or simply craving something delicious for a mid-day snack, these empanadas will be the perfect addition to your menu.

As an appetizer, they’re easy to portion out, allowing guests to grab and go. The bite-sized nature of empanadas makes them an ideal choice for casual gatherings, picnics, or potluck dinners. Serve them on a platter with some tasty dipping sauces like tangy tomato salsa, creamy guacamole, or a refreshing cilantro-lime dip for added flavor. You can even make mini versions of the empanadas, which are great for kids or as finger foods during parties.

As a main course, Easy Beef Empanadas offer a well-balanced meal. Pair them with a side salad or a bowl of warm soup to create a complete dish. You can serve them alongside a fresh, zesty salad with ingredients like avocado, tomatoes, and cilantro, or perhaps a simple corn salad that complements the flavors in the empanadas. For a heartier meal, a side of soup, such as a hearty vegetable or tomato-based soup, would be the perfect match.

Additionally, if you’re looking to impress your guests with a more elevated take on this dish, you can try adding different fillings or toppings. For example, a drizzle of chimichurri sauce, a tangy and herbaceous Argentine sauce, will give your empanadas a burst of flavor that will leave a lasting impression.

Nutritional Benefits of Easy Beef Empanadas

While these Easy Beef Empanadas are undeniably indulgent, they also offer several nutritional benefits, especially if you opt for lean ground beef and wholesome fillings like corn and beans.

Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall health. It’s also rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, all of which play important roles in maintaining a healthy immune system, boosting energy levels, and supporting cognitive function.

Refried beans provide a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. The combination of fiber and protein in the empanadas makes them a filling meal that can keep you satisfied for longer periods of time. Corn, another key ingredient in the filling, is high in antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which promote eye health and may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.

When made with minimal oil or butter, empanadas can be a relatively light dish, making them a better option compared to deep-fried alternatives. By baking the empanadas rather than frying them, you reduce the amount of unhealthy fats and calories, making this a more health-conscious choice for anyone looking to indulge without overdoing it.

Customization and Variations

One of the most enjoyable aspects of making Easy Beef Empanadas is the opportunity to customize them according to your preferences. If you’d like to add more veggies to your empanada filling, consider incorporating ingredients like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. These vegetables not only add extra flavor but also provide additional nutrients, making the dish more balanced and colorful.

For a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein such as crumbled tofu, tempeh, or a veggie-based protein substitute. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or even feta, to create unique flavor combinations. For an even lighter version, try using whole wheat or gluten-free pie crusts to make the empanadas a bit healthier and suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

If you love experimenting with flavors, consider adding spices like cumin, paprika, or even a touch of cinnamon to the filling for a slightly different flavor profile. For an added layer of texture, you could also fold in some crushed tortilla chips or crumbled crackers into the beef mixture before filling the empanadas. This will give the filling a crunchy contrast to the soft beef and cheese.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Easy Beef Empanadas offer a delicious, versatile, and customizable dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and tastes. With their flaky, golden crust and savory beef filling, they’re sure to impress anyone who tries them. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a party, or just as a tasty snack, these empanadas are an excellent choice that delivers both flavor and convenience.