Quick and Simple Ground Beef Empanada Recipe for Any Night

Quick and Simple Ground Beef Empanadas: Your Weeknight Meal Solution! 🍖✨

1. Introduction

Looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that doesn’t take hours to prepare? This simple beef empanada recipe is your answer! Perfect for busy weeknights or a fun weekend activity, these quick ground beef empanadas are packed with flavor and surprisingly easy to make. If you love casseroles, you might also enjoy this easy hamburger potato casserole recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will guide you through creating delightful, homemade empanadas that everyone will love.

This easy empanada recipe uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The combination of savory ground beef, aromatic spices, and tender vegetables encased in a flaky crust makes for an irresistible treat. Maybe you’re in the mood for comfort food? Why not try this quick and simple Swedish meatball casserole recipe for busy nights ? Follow along as we break down each step, ensuring your empanadas come out perfectly every time. Let’s get cooking!

2. What are Empanadas?

Empanadas are essentially savory pastries, popular in Latin American and Spanish cuisine. They consist of a filling, often meat, cheese, or vegetables, wrapped in a dough pocket and baked or fried. The name “empanada” comes from the Spanish verb “empanar,” meaning to wrap or coat in bread. These little pockets of flavor are incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit various tastes and preferences.

3. Why This Recipe Works

This particular recipe is designed for speed and simplicity without sacrificing flavor. Using pre-made empanada dough (or homemade, if you prefer!) cuts down on prep time significantly. The filling is straightforward, utilizing readily available ground beef and common spices. Also, this recipe is very similar to the quick and simple ground beef casserole recipe. The result is a batch of satisfying and delicious empanadas ready in under an hour. It’s the ultimate simple beef empanada recipe. If you’re looking for a similar quick and flavorful meal, you might also want to check out this easy beef empanadas recipe for another great option.

4. Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 package (14 ounces) pre-made empanada dough
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

5. Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Fork

6. Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef Filling

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

2. Cool the Filling

Remove the skillet from the heat and let the beef filling cool slightly. This is important because a hot filling can make the empanada dough soggy and difficult to handle. While the beef is cooling, prepare your workspace and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you are looking for something quick to bake, try this cheesy kielbasa rice and broccoli skillet recipe for something made in minutes! You can also add any additional vegetables you’d like at this step!

3. Assemble the Empanadas

Unpack the empanada dough and lay the circles on a lightly floured surface. Place a spoonful of the cooled beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative and secure seal.

4. Bake the Empanadas

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper (optional but recommended for easy cleanup). Place the assembled empanadas on the baking sheet. Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg. This will give them a golden brown color. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving. Serve these quick ground beef empanadas with your favorite dipping sauce, such as salsa or sour cream. If you’re into quick and easy meals like this, you should check out my dinner category for more inspiration!

7. Tips and Variations

Want to take your empanadas to the next level? Here are a few tips and variations to try:

• **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the beef filling for an extra kick.
• **Vegetarian option:** Substitute the ground beef with seasoned black beans or lentils for a vegetarian-friendly version. This is a great way to add more fiber and plant-based protein to your meal.
• **Cheese, please:** Add shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, to the beef filling for a cheesy delight. Imagine the gooey, melty cheese oozing out with every bite!
• **Make ahead:** Prepare the beef filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will make assembly even faster on a busy weeknight. You can even make a big batch of the filling and use it for multiple meals throughout the week.
• **Freezing Instructions:** Assemble the empanadas but don’t bake them. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, bake from frozen for about 30-35 minutes. This is perfect for meal prepping!
• **Dough Alternatives:** While pre-made dough is convenient, you can always make your empanada dough from scratch. Many recipes are available online for homemade empanada dough. It might take a little more time, but the taste is worth it!

If you like simple recipes, this quick and simple crack chicken recipe could be for you.

8. Serving Suggestions

These homemade empanadas are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides and sauces. Consider serving them with:

• Salsa: A classic pairing that adds a fresh and zesty flavor. Whether it’s a mild tomato salsa or a spicy fruit salsa, it’s sure to complement the savory empanadas.
• Sour cream: Provides a cool and creamy contrast to the savory filling. A dollop of sour cream can balance out the flavors and add a touch of richness.
• Guacamole: Adds a rich and creamy texture with a hint of avocado flavor. This is a great option if you want to add some healthy fats and extra flavor to your meal.
• Rice and beans: A hearty and filling side dish. This combination is a classic Latin American staple and provides a satisfying and balanced meal.
• Side salad: A light and refreshing complement to the empanadas. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can help to cut through the richness of the empanadas and add some freshness to your plate.

9. Conclusion

This simple beef empanada recipe is a winner for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and delicious meal. Maybe you want something for lunch? Check my lunch category! With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can enjoy freshly baked, flavorful empanadas any night of the week. Whether you’re sticking to the classic recipe or trying out some variations, these easy empanada recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy your quick ground beef empanadas! Or if you want something similar try this quick and simple chicken noodle casserole recipe

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