🌶️ Spicy Beef Empanadas
Golden, flaky pastry meets bold, savory beef for the ultimate handheld snack or appetizer!
Whether you’re hosting a party, meal-prepping lunches, or just in the mood for something crispy, spicy, and totally satisfying, these Spicy Beef Empanadas deliver in every bite. With a buttery homemade dough and a richly seasoned beef filling, they’re a snack that’s hard to resist!
Why You’ll Love These Empanadas
- Bold & Spicy: Cumin, chili powder, and paprika give the beef filling a warm, zesty kick.
- Buttery Homemade Dough: Flaky, golden, and way better than store-bought.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Appetizers, snacks, or make-ahead meals.
- Baked, Not Fried: Still crispy and delicious, just a little lighter!
Ingredients
For the Empanada Dough:
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ¼ cup cold water
For the Spicy Beef Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional but recommended)
Instructions
1. Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly mix in the cold water until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Beef Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and season with cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until beef is browned and no longer pink. Stir in fresh cilantro (if using), then remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Empanadas
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about ⅛ inch thick. Cut into 4–5-inch rounds using a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass.
Place 1 tablespoon of beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold over to form a half-moon shape, and press the edges with a fork to seal.
4. Bake to Golden Perfection
Arrange the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Optional: brush the tops with an egg wash (1 beaten egg with 1 tbsp water) for extra shine.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
Serving Suggestions
These empanadas are perfect with:
- A creamy cilantro-lime dipping sauce
- Spicy salsa roja
- Guacamole or sour cream
Tips & Variations
- Add cheese: A little shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar inside each empanada adds a melty twist.
- Want more heat? Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeño to the beef.
- Make ahead: Assemble and freeze unbaked empanadas. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition Info (Approx. per empanada):
Calories: 210 | Protein: 10g | Carbs: 18g | Fat: 12g
These Spicy Beef Empanadas are the definition of crowd-pleasing comfort food—whether you’re enjoying them hot from the oven or sneaking a cold one from the fridge. Crisp, flavorful, and just the right amount of heat!
Tag a friend who needs empanadas in their life!
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