If you have been craving a dish that bursts with hearty flavors wrapped in a tender, flaky crust, then this Baked or Fried Empanadas with Savory Ground Beef or Chicken Filling Recipe is just what your kitchen needs. Whether you prefer the golden crunch of fried empanadas or the lighter, oven-baked version, this recipe guarantees a delightful experience filled with the savory goodness of seasoned ground beef or chicken, accented by tender vegetables and aromatic spices. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or satisfying main dish, these empanadas bring a delicious tradition straight to your table, promising comfort and joy in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in your empanadas. Each component plays an essential role, from the buttery dough that encloses the filling to the spices that elevate the taste to savory perfection.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender, flaky dough that holds your filling beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of both dough and filling.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced: Adds richness and flakiness to your empanada crust.
- 1 egg: Binds the dough and makes the crust golden when brushed on top.
- 1/3 cup cold water: Keeps the dough moist while allowing for easy handling and rolling.
- 1 tablespoon vinegar: Helps tenderize the dough for a delicate crumb.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté the filling, contributing a lovely depth of flavor.
- 1/2 pound ground beef or chicken: The savory heart of the empanada filling that packs a protein punch.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Offers sweetness and texture to the filling.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the filling with aromatic, savory notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Brings a warm, earthy spice that complements the meat perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky flavor and beautiful color.
- 1/2 cup diced potatoes or peas (optional): Provides extra texture and a touch of sweetness to balance the meatiness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season everything just right.
How to Make Baked or Fried Empanadas with Savory Ground Beef or Chicken Filling Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing the flour and salt in a large bowl to create a simple, yet sturdy base for your dough. Then, cut the chilled butter into the flour until the mixture becomes crumbly, which is the secret to that perfect flaky texture. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, cold water, and vinegar together, and gradually add this liquid mixture to the flour and butter. Be gentle when kneading your dough—it only needs to come together and form a smooth ball. Wrap it tightly in plastic and refrigerate for at least one hour to rest, which helps the dough relax and become easier to roll out.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
While your dough chills, you can tackle the savory filling. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the finely chopped onions and minced garlic until they are fragrant and softened. Add your choice of ground beef or chicken, cooking it through and breaking it apart into small, even pieces. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, then toss in your optional diced potatoes or peas to add variety in texture and flavor. Cook everything until the potatoes are tender or the peas are warmed through. Set the filling aside to cool, which will help it hold together better when assembling your empanadas.
Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if you plan to bake. Dust a clean surface with flour and roll out the rested dough to a thin 1/8-inch thickness. Using a round cutter or a bowl, cut the dough into 4- to 6-inch circles—perfect sizes for individual empanadas. Spoon a generous amount of filling onto each dough circle, then fold them in half to enclose the filling, creating half-moon shapes. Press the edges together firmly and seal them by crimping with a fork to prevent leaks during cooking. To add a glossy finish to baked empanadas, brush each with a beaten egg.
Step 4: Cook Your Empanadas
You have the choice to either bake or fry depending on your preference. For baking, place the prepared empanadas on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the crust turns a beautiful golden brown. If frying, heat oil in a skillet to medium-high heat and cook each empanada for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they achieve that irresistible crispiness and deep golden color. Both methods ensure delicious results, so you can’t go wrong whether you want a lighter or a more indulgently crispy experience.
How to Serve Baked or Fried Empanadas with Savory Ground Beef or Chicken Filling Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your empanadas, consider serving them with fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, a dollop of tangy sour cream, or a vibrant chimichurri sauce. These toppings add bright, fresh contrasts to the rich savory filling and buttery crust, making every bite exciting and balanced.
Side Dishes
Pair your empanadas with simple yet complementary sides such as a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a zesty tomato salsa. These accompaniments brighten the plate and offer refreshing textures that enhance the overall meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
If you are serving these at a party or family gathering, arrange the empanadas on a large, rustic wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces like spicy aioli, guacamole, or pico de gallo. Not only does this look inviting, but it also encourages guests to customize their bites, making the meal interactive and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover empanadas can be easily stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick snacks or lunch on busy days.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these empanadas later, freeze them before cooking. Arrange the assembled but uncooked empanadas in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to two months and cooked straight from frozen.
Reheating
Reheat leftover or frozen cooked empanadas in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore that golden crust and warm the filling through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use different types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe highlights ground beef or chicken, you can experiment with ground pork, turkey, or even a mix of meats to suit your taste preferences.
Is it possible to make a vegetarian version of this empanada filling?
Yes! Simply omit the meat and increase the amount of vegetables like potatoes, peas, corn, or mushrooms seasoned well with the spices to maintain that satisfying savory profile.
Which cooking method is healthier: baking or frying?
Baking empanadas is the healthier choice since it uses less oil, resulting in lower fat content, while still achieving a delicious golden crust. However, frying offers a crispier texture that some people love as a special treat.
How do I ensure the dough doesn’t get soggy?
Make sure not to overfill the empanadas and let the filling cool completely before assembling. Also, sealing the edges properly helps prevent moisture from leaking out and making the dough soggy.
Can I prepare the dough and filling ahead of time?
Yes, both dough and filling can be made a day in advance, stored separately in the refrigerator, and then assembled just before cooking for maximum freshness and convenience.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about biting into a warm empanada filled with rich, savory meat and spices in every mouthful. This Baked or Fried Empanadas with Savory Ground Beef or Chicken Filling Recipe offers a delightful fusion of ease, flavor, and tradition that you’ll want to come back to again and again. Whether you bake or fry them, these empanadas bring comfort and joy to any table. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this irresistible dish!
Print
Baked or Fried Empanadas with Savory Ground Beef or Chicken Filling Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 empanadas
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American
Description
These homemade empanadas feature a flaky, buttery crust filled with a savory mixture of ground beef or chicken, aromatic spices, and optional vegetables like potatoes or peas. Crisply baked or quickly fried, they make a perfect handheld snack or appetizer packed with robust flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Dough
- 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
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Filling
- 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, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Cut in the chilled, diced butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, cold water, and vinegar, then gradually add this liquid to the flour mixture. Gently knead the dough until it forms a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour to rest.
- Prepare the Filling: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onions and minced garlic until softened and translucent. Add the ground beef or chicken, cooking until browned and breaking it apart with a spatula. Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and the optional diced potatoes or peas. Cook until vegetables are tender, then remove from heat and let the filling cool.
- Assemble the Empanadas: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to approximately 1/8-inch thickness. Using a round cutter or a glass, cut the dough into circles about 4 to 6 inches in diameter. Place a spoonful of the cooled filling on one half of each circle. Fold the dough over to form 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 to 25 minutes or until golden brown. Alternatively, for frying, heat oil in a pan and fry each empanada for 2 to 3 minutes per side until crisp and golden.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
- Adding diced potatoes or peas is optional but adds texture and flavor to the filling.
- Ensure the dough is well chilled before rolling to make it easier to handle and to achieve a flaky crust.
- Empanadas can be baked or fried; baking provides a lighter texture while frying yields a crispier crust.
- Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat baked empanadas in the oven to retain crispiness.
