Flaky Flavor Bombs (Easy Beef Empanadas)

Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure filled with flaky, golden goodness? Meet your new weeknight superstar: Easy Beef Empanadas! These delightful pockets of joy are not just a feast for the eyes but also a symphony of flavors packed inside a tender, flaky crust. With perfectly seasoned ground beef, vibrant veggies, and a sprinkle of ooey-gooey cheese, each bite transports you to a sun-soaked fiesta. Best of all? You can whip these up in just 30 minutes! Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that will soon become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Easy Beef Empanadas are sure to steal the show at dinner time! Here’s why you’ll adore them:
– Big, Bold Flavors: A perfect blend of spices dances through tender beef, creating a taste explosion in every mouthful.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these empanadas are a hit with everyone!
– Flexible & Fast: With a cooking time of just 30 minutes, they fit seamlessly into your busy schedule.
– Make-Ahead Magic: Prepping these in advance means you’ll always have a delicious meal just waiting to be baked!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delightful Easy Beef Empanadas, gather the following ingredients. With simple, wholesome elements, you’ll be amazed at how easy they come together! A key flavor game-changer is that zesty cumin, which brings a warm earthiness to the dish.

– 1 package of pre-made pie crust (2 rolls)
– 1 pound of lean ground beef (90% lean recommended)
– 1/4 cup diced yellow onion
– 1/2 medium diced bell pepper (any color)
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon minced garlic
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon pepper
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 cup Mexican blended cheese
– 1 egg

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

What’s great about Easy Beef Empanadas is their versatility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:
– Go Gluten-Free: Swap the pie crust for a gluten-free alternative and enjoy empanadas without the gluten.
– Add Extra Protein: Mix in some black beans or shredded chicken for a delightful protein boost.
– Make it Spicier: Toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to heat things up.
– Swap the Dressing: Experiment with different spices or sauces, like taco seasoning or chipotle sauce, for a unique twist.
– Cheese it Up: Try different cheeses like pepper jack or cheddar for a yummy flavor twist!

How to Make Easy Beef Empanadas

Let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create your own Easy Beef Empanadas:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a cookie sheet with baking mat, non-stick foil, parchment paper, or a drizzle of oil. This sets the stage for your empanadas’ golden crust!

Step 2: Sauté the Filling

In a large skillet, add the ground beef, diced onions, and bell pepper. Cook until the beef is browned through and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 3: Spice It Up

Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat. Then, stir in cumin, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Cook for an additional 2 minutes for those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Roll Out the Pastry

Roll out your pie crusts on a clean surface. Use a bowl similar in size to a cereal bowl to trace circles onto each crust. You should get about 3 circles per crust.

Step 5: Assemble the Empanadas

With the leftover pie crust, roll out again and cut more circles until all the dough is used, yielding about 8 total. Place a circle on the prepared cookie sheet, and spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the beef filling into the center. Top with 1 tablespoon of cheese.

Step 6: Seal the Empanadas

Fold the crust over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Press the edges down with a fork to seal in all that deliciousness. Repeat until all empanadas are formed.

Step 7: Brush and Bake

Arrange empanadas on the cookie sheet. Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the top of each empanada for a beautiful golden finish. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until tops are gloriously golden brown.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and serve warm with your favorite salads, salsas, and guacamole. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Beef Empanadas

To ensure your Easy Beef Empanadas turn out perfectly, keep these pro tips in mind:
– Don’t Overfill: Adding too much filling can cause the empanadas to burst during baking. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results!
– Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Don’t hesitate to add your favorite seasonings for a unique twist.
– Chill Before Baking: For an extra flaky crust, place the assembled empanadas in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before baking.
– Use a Kitchen Thermometer: If you’re unsure about doneness, a meat thermometer can help you check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

How to Serve Easy Beef Empanadas

Garnishes

Brighten up your plate with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or a drizzle of sour cream for added flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair your empanadas with a refreshing side salad, zesty salsa, or some creamy guacamole for a delightful meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your empanadas on a colorful platter for a festive look, or place them in individual cups for a fun party snack. They also make fantastic lunchbox treats!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

For any leftovers, store your empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They make a great snack!

Freezing

You can freeze the uncooked empanadas! Assemble them completely, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat cooked empanadas in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Enjoy that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic substitute and will still deliver delicious flavor.

Is this recipe spicy?

The level of spice is mild, but feel free to amp it up by adding more chili powder or fresh jalapeños!

How do I make this gluten-free?

Substitute the pre-made pie crust with a gluten-free version, and you’re all set!

Can I prepare these in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the empanadas ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

With their flaky crusts and savory fillings, these Easy Beef Empanadas are sure to become a beloved dish in your household. Whether served at a bustling weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, they’re a true delight. Ready to roll up your sleeves and create a flavor-packed masterpiece? You’ve got this, and I can’t wait for you to taste the magic! Happy cooking!