Easy Beef Empanadas Recipe

If you’re looking for a fun, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing appetizer or dinner idea, this easy beef empanadas recipe is just what you need. With a savory, spiced ground beef filling wrapped in flaky, golden pastry, these handheld pies are irresistible — and surprisingly simple to make. Every bite delivers a perfect combination of tender beef, melty cheese, and just the right touch of spice.

Whether you’re making them for a party, family dinner, or even meal prep, these empanadas are a surefire hit. This complete recipe guide will walk you step by step through the process, with pro tips, serving suggestions, and variations to help you master these delicious handheld treats.

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Why You’ll Love This Easy Beef Empanadas Recipe

There’s so much to love about these empanadas. They’re quick and easy thanks to store-bought pie crusts, yet they look and taste homemade. The filling is hearty and satisfying, full of spices, green chiles, pimentos, and melty cheese — all wrapped in a flaky crust that bakes to golden perfection.

If you enjoy recipes that are big on flavor yet simple to make, you might also love our chicken zucchini bake or crispy coconut chicken strips for more family-friendly dinner ideas.

Who Is This Easy Beef Empanadas For?

This recipe is perfect for busy cooks who want maximum flavor with minimal fuss. It’s great for beginners and pros alike, and ideal for weeknight dinners, game-day snacks, or party platters. Kids and adults alike will love them, and they’re easy to adapt for different tastes.

Ingredients for Easy Beef Empanadas (with Notes)

For the Filling

• ½ pound ground beef — hearty and flavorful base.
• ¼ onion, diced — adds sweetness and texture.
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin & ½ teaspoon chili powder (or chipotle chili powder) — smoky, warm spices.
• ½ teaspoon salt — enhances flavor.
• 4 ounces diced green chiles & 4 ounces diced pimento peppers — for tangy, mild heat.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste — for richness.
• ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend) — melty, creamy addition.

For the Crust & Assembly

• 2 refrigerated pie crusts — flaky, convenient pastry.
• 1 egg, whisked — egg wash for shine and color.
• HERDEZ™ Traditional Guacamole — for dipping and serving.

If you love handheld, savory recipes like this, you might also enjoy our cheesy pizza pockets or philly cheesesteak wrap for another easy meal idea.

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Essential Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Make sure you have:

• Skillet
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Pastry cutter or 3-inch round cutter
• Fork
• Pastry brush
• Mixing spoon & bowls

Having your tools ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Step-by-Step Preparation: How to Make Easy Beef Empanadas

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a nonstick baking mat.

Step 2: Cut the Dough

Unroll the pie crusts on a clean surface. Use a 3-inch round pastry cutter to cut out circles from the dough. Gather scraps, roll them out, and cut additional circles if desired.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Add diced onion, cumin, chili powder, salt, green chiles, and pimento peppers. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until onions are soft. Stir in tomato paste and then shredded cheese. Remove from heat.

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Step 4: Assemble the Empanadas

Spoon about 2 tablespoons of beef filling into the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Use a fork to press and seal the edges.

Step 5: Bake

Arrange the empanadas on your prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them. Brush each with the whisked egg. Bake for 10 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Allow the empanadas to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with HERDEZ™ Traditional Guacamole for dipping — and enjoy every bite!

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Tips for Perfect Beef Empanadas

Work quickly with the dough so it stays cold and flaky. Don’t overfill the empanadas or they might split open during baking. For extra golden crust, brush with egg wash twice before baking.

For more helpful baking tips, you might also enjoy our lemon crumb bars — another easy and impressive recipe.

Serving and Presentation Ideas for Beef Empanadas

Serve these empanadas on a large platter with bowls of guacamole, salsa, and sour cream on the side. Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for a pop of color. They’re perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even main course with a side salad.

Storage Instructions: How to Keep Empanadas Fresh

Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to keep the crust crisp. They can also be frozen (unbaked or baked) and reheated directly from frozen.

Beef Empanadas Recipe Variations and Swaps

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Add cooked black beans or corn to the filling for extra texture and flavor. Make them spicier by adding a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeños.

Food and Drink Pairings with Beef Empanadas

Pair these empanadas with a refreshing cucumber mint cooler or a light green salad. They also go well with rice and beans on the side for a complete meal.

FAQs About Beef Empanadas

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes — assemble the empanadas and refrigerate (or freeze) until ready to bake.

Can I fry them instead of baking?
Absolutely — fry in 350°F oil until golden, about 2–3 minutes per side.

Do I have to use pie crusts?
No — you can use homemade empanada dough or even puff pastry for a flakier texture.

For another savory snack idea, try our cheddar cheese buns next!

Final Thoughts: Make These Easy Beef Empanadas Tonight!

This easy beef empanadas recipe is flavorful, simple, and incredibly satisfying — perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, they’re sure to become a family favorite.

If you loved this Easy Beef Empanadas, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more irresistible recipes and helpful cooking tips. Happy baking!

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