Beef Empanadas

Beef Empanadas
Beef Empanadas boast a flavorful filling of seasoned ground beef, onions, olives, and hard-boiled eggs, encased in flaky pastry. Baked to golden perfection, each bite offers a delightful blend of savory and aromatic flavors, complemented by the buttery crust. Perfect for gatherings or quick meals, these treats evoke warmth and comfort, inviting indulgence with every bite.

Approx times: Prep: 45 min - Cook: 20-25 min
Ingredients
Serves 4
Filling
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 pound ground beef
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup green olives, chopped
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • 2 tbsp raisins (optional)
  • 1/4 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
Dough
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1/2 cup cold water
Directions
  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until softened.
  • Add ground beef, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned.
  • Stir in olives, hard-boiled eggs, raisins (if using), and tomato sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Gradually add cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Shape it into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
  • Using a round cutter or a small bowl, cut out circles of dough.
  • Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each dough circle.
  • Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Seal edges, pressing with a fork.
  • Arrange the filled empanadas on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
  • Serve the empanadas warm as a delicious appetizer or main dish.