Name: Crispy Beef Empanadas Recipe
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup cubed cold unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 large egg; ½ cup milk; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small yellow onion, diced; ⅓ cup finely diced jalapeno (about 1 medium jalapeno); 1 pound ground beef; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; ½ teaspoon oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup beef broth; 1 medium potato, small diced; ¼ cup frozen peas; 1 egg; 2 tablespoons water

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 6 reviews

If you have a soft spot for golden, flaky pockets of flavor that pack a punch, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Crispy Beef Empanadas Recipe. These delightful empanadas are filled with a savory combination of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, vibrant peas, and a blend of bold Mexican spices that create each bite’s irresistible character. Whether baked or fried, their crispy exterior gives way to a juicy, aromatic filling that’s perfect for sharing at any occasion or simply indulging on your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A thin sheet of light beige dough is rolled out wide on a white marbled surface lightly dusted with flour. Four round shapes are cut evenly spaced into the dough, with a shiny metal round cutter sitting on the top left shape. The dough edges are uneven and slightly rough, showing where the dough was rolled out. The texture is smooth, and the dough looks soft and ready for baking. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

For this Crispy Beef Empanadas Recipe, you’ll find that the ingredients are straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen to create an incredible harmony of taste, texture, and color. Each component, from the buttery dough to the seasoned filling, plays a crucial role in making these empanadas truly shine.

3 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives the dough its perfect flaky texture.
¾ cup cubed cold unsalted butter: Cold butter ensures a tender, flaky crust when incorporated properly.
1 teaspoon salt: Balances flavor throughout the dough.
1 large egg: Binds the dough and adds richness.
½ cup milk: Helps to bring the dough together with the right softness.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds depth to the filling with a mild fruity undertone.
1 small yellow onion: Provides a sweet and savory foundation for the beef filling.
⅓ cup finely diced jalapeño: Packs a gentle heat that complements the spices nicely.
1 pound ground beef: The filling’s hearty hero, delivering rich, meaty flavor.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates umami and adds moistness to the filling.
1 teaspoon chili powder: Gives a smoky, slightly spicy kick.
1 teaspoon paprika: Adds warmth and beautiful color.
1 teaspoon cumin: Infuses an earthy depth to the blend of spices.
½ teaspoon oregano: Offers subtle herbal notes that enhance the filling.
Salt and pepper to taste: Finishing touches to balance all the flavors.
1 cup beef broth: Keeps the filling juicy and infuses savory richness.
1 medium potato, small diced: Adds a tender bite and absorbs the tasty juices.
¼ cup frozen peas: Bursts of color and sweetness that lighten the filling.
1 egg (for egg wash): Creates a gorgeous golden crust when brushed on.
2 tablespoons water (for egg wash): Dilutes the egg for easy brushing and perfect shine.

How to Make Crispy Beef Empanadas Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by combining the flour, cold cubed butter, and salt in a food processor fitted with a blade attachment. Pulse just enough to create pea-sized butter chunks in the flour. This little technique is what creates the signature flaky layers in your empanada crust. Next, add the egg and milk, pulsing just until a dough forms. Avoid overmixing at this point — you want a nice ball, soft but not sticky. Wrap the dough disk tightly in plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for at least an hour to relax the gluten and firm up the butter. This chill time is key for that perfect crust texture.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

While your dough chills, it’s time to make that unforgettable filling. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the finely diced onion, jalapeño, and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned and the veggies soften, about 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and all the spices—chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano—plus salt and pepper to taste. It’s the harmony of these seasonings that brings the filling to life. Toss in the diced potatoes and pour in the beef broth, letting everything simmer gently until the potatoes are tender, around 12 to 15 minutes. To finish, stir in the vibrant peas, then remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly. This cooling step helps ensure the filling won’t make the dough soggy.

Step 3: Assemble Your Empanadas

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking tray with parchment paper. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about ⅛-inch thickness. Use a 5-inch ring cutter or a small bowl to cut out 12 circles. If you prefer, divide the dough evenly into 12 portions and roll each into a circle. Spoon roughly ¼ cup of the filling into the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and crimp the edges tightly with a fork to seal. This step is both practical and beautiful, and it ensures none of that delicious filling escapes while baking.

Step 4: Bake to Crispy Perfection

Whisk together the egg and water to make the egg wash. Brush this shiny mixture over the tops of each empanada, which will give them a gorgeous, golden finish as they bake. Pop the tray in the oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden and crisp. If you’d like an extra crunch, you can also choose to fry them, but baking saves on cleanup and still delivers that signature crispness. Serve warm with your favorite salsa or sour cream for dipping, and get ready for some serious compliments!

How to Serve Crispy Beef Empanadas Recipe

A close-up view of six golden-brown, half-moon shaped empanadas with crimped edges neatly stacked together on a dark plate sitting on a white marbled surface. The empanadas have a slightly shiny, crispy crust with sprinkled white salt flakes and small green parsley bits on top. On the left edge, there is a clear container with creamy green guacamole partially visible. The focus is sharp on the empanadas in the front while the background is softly blurred, showing the texture of the crust and details of the garnish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding garnishes offers a fresh burst of flavor and texture that pairs beautifully with the Crispy Beef Empanadas Recipe. Brighten your plate with chopped fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco. For a tangy contrast, a squeeze of lime over the top adds a lively zip. Plus, a dollop of cooling guacamole or a drizzle of creamy chipotle sauce can make every bite extra special.

Side Dishes

Empanadas are delightfully versatile, so pairing them with the right sides can elevate your meal. Serve alongside a crisp Mexican cabbage slaw for crunch and brightness, or a warm bowl of black beans and rice for a more filling feast. A fresh salad with avocado and radish adds crunch and creaminess, balancing the savory richness of the beef filling perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For gathering and sharing, arrange your Crispy Beef Empanadas on a large wooden board lined with a colorful cloth napkin. Surround with small bowls of salsa, sour cream, and pickled jalapeños to let everyone customize their bites. You can also skewer mini empanadas and serve as handheld appetizers at parties. Imagine the smiles when guests bite into these crispy, flavorful treats!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover empanadas, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When refrigerated properly, they keep their delicious flavor and remain relatively crispy, ready for a quick snack or lunch the next day.

Freezing

The beauty of this Crispy Beef Empanadas Recipe is that it freezes exceptionally well. After shaping the uncooked empanadas, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze until solid. Then transfer them into a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for about two months, making it easy to enjoy a homemade treat whenever you crave one. When ready, just bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

To bring your empanadas back to life, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for around 10 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving for reheating as it can leave the crust soggy. Using the oven ensures that signature crispness returns with every delicious bite.

FAQs

Can I use pre-made dough instead of making my own?

Absolutely! While the homemade dough in this Crispy Beef Empanadas Recipe delivers a wonderful flaky texture, store-bought pie crust or empanada dough works well in a pinch. Just be sure to adjust cooking times and watch your empanadas closely to avoid overbaking.

Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even finely chopped mushrooms make excellent alternatives. Just adjust seasoning as needed to maintain the bold flavor profile that makes these empanadas irresistible.

Is it possible to bake instead of fry the empanadas?

Definitely. In fact, baking is the method I recommend for this Crispy Beef Empanadas Recipe to achieve a perfectly golden and crispy finish with less oil. Baking at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes works beautifully.

Can these empanadas be made vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the beef and increase the potatoes, peas, and add other veggies like corn or bell peppers. Using textured vegetable protein or lentils can also provide a satisfying texture and protein boost.

How do I prevent the dough from becoming soggy?

The key is to let your filling cool before assembling the empanadas, and to thoroughly seal the edges. Also, don’t overload with filling—just about ¼ cup per dough circle is enough to keep things tidy and crispy.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Beef Empanadas Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s comforting, flavorful, and perfect for sharing around the table or taking to your favorite potluck. Once you make these at home, I bet they’ll become a beloved recipe in your collection for years to come. So grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and dive into the joy of crafting these golden pockets of happiness!