If you have ever craved a treat that brings a burst of comforting flavors wrapped in a perfectly golden crust, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Classic Savory Empanadas with Ground Meat and Spiced Filling Recipe. Each empanada is packed with a juicy, spiced ground meat filling that is both hearty and full of character, encased in a tender yet crisp dough that melts in your mouth. This recipe offers the perfect balance of simple ingredients and bold tastes, making it a beloved crowd-pleaser for gatherings or a satisfying weeknight dinner that feels special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Classic Savory Empanadas with Ground Meat and Spiced Filling Recipe lies in its straightforward but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, delivering authentic flavor, and adding that lovely inviting color that makes these empanadas so irresistible.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of your dough, providing just the right structure and chewiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances every component’s flavor without overpowering.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced: Adds richness and flakiness to the dough.
- 1 egg: Binds the dough and gives a golden finish when brushed on top.
- 1/3 cup cold water: Helps bring the dough together without making it sticky.
- 1 tablespoon vinegar: Tenderizes the dough and balances the butter’s richness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Essential for sautéing the filling ingredients with a gentle fruity aroma.
- 1/2 pound ground beef or chicken: The hearty, protein-packed star of the filling.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Brings sweetness and depth when cooked.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a pungent and savory kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Imparts a warm, earthy note to your filling.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Provides subtle smoky undertones and a lovely color.
- 1/2 cup diced potatoes or peas (optional): Adds texture and a subtle sweetness if you want a veggie boost.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To perfectly season both the dough and the filling.
How to Make Classic Savory Empanadas with Ground Meat and Spiced Filling Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing the flour and salt in a large bowl to create the base. Then cut in chilled butter until the mixture is crumbly and resembles coarse crumbs—this is what makes the dough flaky and tender. Next, whisk together the egg, cold water, and vinegar separately, and gradually incorporate it into your flour mixture. Knead gently into a smooth ball, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least an hour. This chilling step is key to relaxing the gluten, helping the dough roll out easily later.
Step 2: Make the Filling
While the dough rests, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until translucent and fragrant, creating an inviting aroma in your kitchen. Add the ground meat and cook thoroughly, breaking it up as it browns. Stir in your cumin, paprika, and if you like a bit of added texture and sweetness, toss in diced potatoes or peas. Season with salt and pepper, then let this mixture cool slightly before assembling.
Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out your chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a bowl to cut dough circles 4 to 6 inches in diameter—the size depends on how big you want your empanadas. Spoon the cooled filling onto one half of each dough circle, folding the other half over to make a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly and crimp with a fork to seal in all that delicious filling. Brush each empanada with beaten egg to ensure a shiny, golden crust after baking.
Step 4: Cook Your Empanadas
You can bake your empanadas on a lined baking sheet for 20 to 25 minutes until they achieve that irresistible golden brown. Alternatively, for a crispier finish, fry them in hot oil for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until beautifully crunchy. Both methods yield delightfully satisfying results—choose whichever suits your mood or occasion!
How to Serve Classic Savory Empanadas with Ground Meat and Spiced Filling Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, a dollop of tangy sour cream, or a drizzle of spicy chimichurri can elevate your empanadas to the next level. These garnishes add color, freshness, and contrast that perfectly complement the richly spiced ground meat filling.
Side Dishes
Balancing out your empanadas with simple sides like a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a vibrant tomato salsa turns your meal into a well-rounded feast. These options add brightness and texture alongside the warm, comforting empanadas.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Classic Savory Empanadas with Ground Meat and Spiced Filling Recipe on a wooden board lined with parchment paper for a rustic feel that encourages sharing. Add small bowls of dipping sauces such as guacamole, spicy aioli, or fresh salsa around the platter. This invites your guests to customize their bites with exciting flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick snacks or meals. Always try to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing
Wrap empanadas individually or place them on a baking sheet to freeze until solid before transferring to freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without sacrificing flavor or texture. When you want a quick treat, they’re ready to go!
Reheating
For best results, reheat frozen or refrigerated empanadas in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes. This helps maintain their crispy crust and warm filling much better than microwaving, which can make the dough soggy.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of beef in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works wonderfully in this Classic Savory Empanadas with Ground Meat and Spiced Filling Recipe. It creates a lighter filling while still absorbing the spices beautifully, maintaining great flavor and texture.
Is it possible to make the dough vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine and replace the egg wash with a brush of plant milk or olive oil before baking. The dough will still be tender and flaky, although the color might be slightly different.
Can I freeze the empanadas before cooking?
You sure can. Assemble your uncooked empanadas, freeze them on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What are good vegetarian filling options?
Try a mix of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and cheese or a spiced lentil and vegetable combo. They work great in this recipe and keep the empanadas packed with flavor and satisfying texture.
How do I prevent the dough from getting soggy?
Make sure your filling isn’t too wet by draining any excess liquid before assembling. Also, chiling the dough and sealing the edges well helps keep the crust crisp after baking or frying.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Savory Empanadas with Ground Meat and Spiced Filling Recipe is more than just a dish—it’s an experience that fills your kitchen with warming aromas and brings everyone to the table eager for that first bite. Whether you’re making it for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, these empanadas promise comfort, flavor, and a touch of homemade love. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a treasured favorite you’ll return to time and again.
Print
Classic Savory Empanadas with Ground Meat and Spiced Filling Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American
Description
This delicious empanadas recipe features a flaky homemade dough filled with a savory mixture of ground beef or chicken, onions, garlic, and spices. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, these empanadas can be baked until golden or fried for a crispy texture, making them a versatile treat loved across many cuisines.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup cold water
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
Filling Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 pound ground beef or chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup diced potatoes or peas (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Cut in the chilled, diced butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. In another bowl, whisk together the egg, cold water, and vinegar, then gradually add this to the flour mixture. Knead gently until a dough forms. Shape it into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour to firm up.
- Prepare the Filling: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onions and minced garlic until softened and fragrant. Add the ground meat and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir in the cumin, paprika, and optional diced potatoes or peas. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the filling to cool before assembling.
- Assemble the Empanadas: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut the rolled dough into circles roughly 4 to 6 inches in diameter. Spoon a portion of the cooled filling onto each circle, fold the dough over into a half-moon shape, and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
- Cook the Empanadas: Arrange the assembled empanadas on a baking sheet. Brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Alternatively, you can fry them in hot oil for 2-3 minutes per side until crispy and golden.
Notes
- Refrigerating the dough helps achieve a flakier texture during baking.
- You can customize the filling with vegetables like diced potatoes or peas based on preference.
- Brush with egg wash for a beautiful golden crust when baking.
- Frying creates a crispier empanada but increases calorie content.
- Ensure the filling is cooled before assembling to avoid dough sogginess.
- Empanadas are versatile and can be served hot or at room temperature.
