Ah, the delightful embrace of comfort food! There’s something truly magical about biting into a warm, flaky pastry filled with savory goodness. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a recipe that takes me back to the cozy kitchen of my Devonshire cottage — the ground beef empanadas recipe. As a child, I often woke up to the aroma of my mum’s baking filling our home, and this recipe is a meld of those cherished memories with a hint of my own culinary adventures. So, grab a cup of tea, and let’s create something memorable together!

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Empanadas Recipe

Empanadas are like little parcels of joy, and this ground beef version is no exception. The combination of spiced beef, tender vegetables, and a buttery, flaky crust will transport you straight to the heart of a warm family gathering. Just like the bustling Sunday roasts of my youth, these empanadas are perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or simply enjoying a quiet evening, this recipe will wrap you in a comforting embrace.

What makes this ground beef empanadas recipe stand out is its versatility. You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your palate or dietary needs. It’s a forgiving dish, much like those early mornings in my mum’s kitchen where creativity flowed as freely as the flour from the bag. And trust me, once you master this recipe, it will become a cherished staple in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Ground Beef Empanadas Recipe

Ingredients for Sizzling Flavor Fiesta: The Ultimate Ground Beef Empanadas Recipe

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
1/4 cup ice-cold water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

You can substitute the ground beef with turkey or even a plant-based alternative if you prefer. The red bell pepper adds a dash of sweetness, reminiscent of the vibrant gardens surrounding our old cottage. And don’t worry if you’re short on smoked paprika; a touch of regular paprika will still give that lovely warmth.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 320 per empanada
Protein: 14g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 360mg

These nutritional details are based on the recipe yielding six empanadas, making them a hearty snack or a light meal. Just as we balanced flavors and textures in my mum’s kitchen, these empanadas have a harmonious blend of nutrients to keep you satisfied. Learn more: Ultimate Ground Beef Burritos: A Flavor-Packed Fiesta in Every Bite

Sizzling Flavor Fiesta: The Ultimate Ground Beef Empanadas Recipe

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Learn how to make delicious ground beef empanadas recipe. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.

Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
1/4 cup ice-cold water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

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Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the diced butter and mix with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add the ice-cold water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Set aside to cool.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles using a 4-inch round cutter or an inverted bowl.
Place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges with a fork to seal.
Brush the empanadas with the beaten egg and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.

As you fold those delicate pastry circles, remember that imperfection is part of the charm. My mum always said, “A little unevenness gives character,” and I couldn’t agree more.

Author: Jenny
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Cooking
Cuisine: International

Steps to Create Your Ground Beef Empanadas Recipe

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the diced butter and mix with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add the ice-cold water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Set aside to cool.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles using a 4-inch round cutter or an inverted bowl.
Place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges with a fork to seal.
Brush the empanadas with the beaten egg and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.

As you fold those delicate pastry circles, remember that imperfection is part of the charm. My mum always said, “A little unevenness gives character,” and I couldn’t agree more.

Tips for Making the Best Ground Beef Empanadas Recipe

For a truly flaky crust, ensure your butter is very cold. This was a trick my mum swore by, even when making her famous pie crusts. If you find your dough too sticky, a sprinkle of flour will do wonders. And don’t rush the filling — allowing it to cool ensures the pastry holds better and doesn’t become soggy.

Experiment with spices to match your preferences. A dash of chili powder can add a hint of heat, while a pinch of cinnamon can evoke a subtle warmth, reminiscent of those apple crumbles from my childhood. Remember, cooking is an art, and your kitchen is your canvas.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Final dish - Sizzling Flavor Fiesta: The Ultimate Ground Beef Empanadas Recipe

Empanadas are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. They pair beautifully with a fresh green salad or a tangy tomato salsa. For a true Devon-inspired meal, enjoy them with a cup of English breakfast tea or perhaps a crisp cider, reminiscent of the orchards back home. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a main course, they’re bound to be the star of the meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Should you find yourself with leftovers (a rare phenomenon in my experience), these empanadas store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This keeps them crisp and delightful, much like they were fresh from the oven. You can also freeze them before baking for up to three months; just thaw them in the fridge overnight before continuing with the baking process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for ground beef empanadas recipe?

The main ingredients for ground beef empanadas recipe include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make ground beef empanadas recipe?

The total time to make ground beef empanadas recipe includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make ground beef empanadas recipe ahead of time?

Yes, ground beef empanadas recipe can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with ground beef empanadas recipe?

ground beef empanadas recipe pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is ground beef empanadas recipe suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, ground beef empanadas recipe may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

This ground beef empanadas recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a journey back to simpler times, where flavors told stories and meals were shared with laughter. I hope it fills your home with warmth and joy, much like my mum’s recipes did in our cozy Devonshire cottage. As you savor each bite, may it remind you of the power of food to connect us to our memories and to each other. Happy cooking!