Name: Delicious Empanadas
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed; 1 egg; 0.5 cup cold water; 1 tablespoon white vinegar; 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 0.5 teaspoon chili powder; 0.25 cup tomato sauce or paste; 0.5 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 egg for egg wash; 1 tablespoon water for egg wash; Fresh parsley for garnish

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting meal that’s simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, these Delicious Empanadas should be at the top of your list. Just imagine biting into a golden, flaky pastry that reveals a savory filling of tender ground beef and melted cheese. Empanadas are the perfect choice for any time of day; they work equally well as a delightful dinner option, a tasty lunchtime treat, or even a satisfying snack for late-night cravings. Not only are they delicious, but they are also incredibly versatile and easy to create.

With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these savory pastries for your family or friends. The beauty of empanadas is that they can be made ahead of time and frozen, making them a fantastic meal prep option. The combination of spices and seasonings ensures that every bite is packed with flavor, while the flaky crust adds a delightful crunch to the experience. Whether you’re serving them as appetizers at a gathering, packing them in lunch boxes, or enjoying them fresh out of the oven with a sprinkle of parsley, these empanadas are sure to become a cherished favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Empanadas

Flavorful Filling: Each empanada is filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, cheese, and spices, creating a delicious explosion of flavors.
Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Freezer-Friendly: Make a large batch and freeze them for quick meals whenever you crave a snack.
Customizable: Feel free to alter the filling by adding your favorite vegetables or switching up the proteins.
Handheld Delight: Perfect for on-the-go meals, these tasty pastries are easy to hold and eat anytime.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the empanada-making fun, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather all the necessary tools. Start by ensuring your work surface is clean and spacious enough to roll out the dough. You will need a mixing bowl, a rolling pin, and a floured surface for rolling the dough. A pastry cutter can help cut in the butter into the flour, but you can also use your fingers. Make sure to have a sharp knife or round cutter for cutting out the dough circles, and a fork for crimping the edges. Additionally, a baking sheet lined with parchment paper is crucial for baking your empanadas, and don’t forget a small bowl to whisk the egg wash. With everything in place, your cooking process will flow smoother, making it a more enjoyable experience.

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
0.5 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
1 egg
0.5 cup cold water
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
0.5 teaspoon chili powder
0.25 cup tomato sauce or paste
0.5 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg for egg wash
1 tablespoon water for egg wash
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by taking a large bowl and combining the all-purpose flour with salt. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut in the cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This process, known as ‘cutting in,’ enriches the dough, creating a flaky texture. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, cold water, and white vinegar. Gradually pour this liquid into the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This chilling time is crucial as it allows the gluten to relax, making your empanada crust tender and buttery.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the dough cools, it’s time to make the delicious filling. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil, letting it warm up. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until they’re fragrant and the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, cooking until it’s fully browned. Be sure to drain any excess fat from the beef to keep your filling from being greasy. After the beef is cooked, stir in the tomato sauce, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes so that the flavors meld together. Remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Roll and Cut the Dough

After the dough has chilled, take it out and place it on a lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough out to about 1/8 inch thick. Using a round cutter or a sharp knife, cut out circles roughly 4–6 inches in diameter. Gather any scraps and re-roll them to cut out additional circles. As you cut them out, place them on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Fill and Seal the Empanadas

Now comes the fun part! Take each dough circle and place approximately 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of the beef filling in the center. To enhance the flavor, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of the filling. Moisten the edges of the dough circle with a little water to help seal them. Carefully fold the dough over the filling, creating a half-moon shape, and crimp the edges together using a fork. This ensures no filling escapes during baking, keeping your empanadas delicious and intact.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the empanadas for baking. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place the empanadas on the baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced out enough to allow for even cooking. For a beautiful golden finish, prepare the egg wash by whisking one egg with a tablespoon of water, and brush it over the tops of the empanadas. This step creates that stunning color and finish. Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for approximately 22–25 minutes or until they are golden brown. Once baked, let them cool for about 5 minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation.

Variations

Protein: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even shredded pork for a different twist.
Vegetables: Incorporate diced bell peppers, corn, or spinach into the filling for added nutrition and flavor.
Spices: Experiment with other spices like oregano, coriander, or a hint of cayenne for a kick.

Cooking Notes

For a shortcut, use store-bought dough to save time on the preparation.
Ensure the filling is cool before assembling to prevent the dough from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a side of chimichurri or salsa for dipping.
Pair with a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips

Keep your dough chilled; it will make rolling and shaping much easier.
Assemble your empanadas ahead of time and freeze them for quick meals later on.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 250 per empanada
Protein: 10 grams
Sodium: Varies based on added salt and cheese

FAQs

What can I substitute for ground beef in empanadas?

You can easily use ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Can I make empanadas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance, refrigerate, or even freeze them for future meals.

How do I know when the empanadas are done baking?

The empanadas are done when they are golden brown on top. You can also check for a crisp texture.

What is the best way to reheat frozen empanadas?

The best way to reheat is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring they remain crisp.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Delicious Empanadas are a surefire way to satisfy cravings, whether it’s for a hearty dinner or a quick snack. They are not only easy to prepare but can also be customized to suit your taste buds. The combination of flavorful beef, gooey cheese, and the irresistible flaky crust makes these empanadas a delightful addition to any meal. We encourage you to try this recipe, share it with your friends, and experiment with different fillings. Don’t hesitate to comment on your experiences or variations you made; we love hearing from our readers. Enjoy your culinary adventure with these empanadas!