Easy Ground Beef Empanadas Recipe : Quick 30-Minute Dinner Idea!

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If you’re searching for quick dinner ideas that deliver big on flavor without hours in the kitchen, these Ground Beef Empanadas are about to become your new go-to recipe. Crispy, golden pastry pockets filled with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and a kick of green chiles – they’re everything you want in an easy weeknight meal. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a crowd-pleasing appetizer for game day, these empanadas check all the boxes.

What makes this recipe truly special is how it transforms simple hamburger meat recipes into something restaurant-worthy. You’ll use refrigerated pie crusts as a shortcut (genius, right?), which means no complicated dough-making required. The filling comes together in one skillet with pantry staples like cumin, chili powder, and tomato paste, creating layers of savory, slightly spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with creamy guacamole.

These empanadas work beautifully as a main dish, appetizer, or even portable lunch. They freeze exceptionally well, so you can make a double batch and have easy meals with ground beef ready whenever hunger strikes. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make these perfect little pastry pockets!

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Empanadas Recipe

• Ready in 30 minutes: From start to finish, including baking time, you’ll have hot empanadas on the table in half an hour
• Budget-friendly: Ground beef is economical, and most ingredients are pantry staples
• Customizable heat level: Adjust the chili powder to suit your family’s spice preferences
• Make-ahead friendly: Assemble and freeze unbaked for up to 3 months
• Kid-approved: The combination of beef and cheese wrapped in flaky pastry is universally loved
• Versatile serving options: Great for dinner, lunch boxes, parties, or game day snacks

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Empanadas

This recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious empanadas:

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some ways to customize your empanadas:

• Protein swaps: Use ground turkey, ground chicken, or even plant-based ground meat
• Cheese options: Try pepper jack for extra heat, or Monterey Jack for creaminess
• Veggie additions: Add corn, black beans, or diced bell peppers to the filling
• Spice it up: Include jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce for more heat
• Pastry alternatives: Use empanada discs or make homemade dough if preferred

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ground Beef Empanadas

Preparing Your Kitchen

Before you start cooking, gather your equipment. You’ll need a frying pan for the beef mixture, a cutting board for prep work, and baking sheets for the oven. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and efficient.

Making the Filling

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a nonstick mat.

Step 2: Unroll the refrigerated pie crusts on a clean surface. Use a 3-inch round pastry cutter to cut circles from the dough. You should get about 8-10 circles per crust. If you have scraps, gently press them together, roll out, and cut additional circles.

Step 3: Heat your frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon from your kitchen utensils set, until fully browned (about 5-6 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 4: Stir in the diced onions, ground cumin, chili powder, and salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent.

Step 5: Add the diced green chiles and pimento peppers to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 6: Mix in the tomato paste, stirring until it coats the beef mixture evenly. This creates a rich, cohesive filling.

Step 7: Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the shredded cheese. The residual heat will melt it perfectly into the filling.

Assembling the Empanadas

Step 8: Place the dough circles on your work surface. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture into the center of each circle, being careful not to overfill (this prevents bursting during baking).

Step 9: Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together to seal.

Step 10: Use a fork to crimp along the curved edge, creating a decorative seal that also ensures no filling escapes during baking.

Step 11: Arrange the empanadas on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving space between each one. This allows for even browning.

Step 12: Brush the tops with whisked egg using a pastry brush from your kitchen utensils collection. This creates that beautiful golden-brown finish.

Baking to Perfection

Step 13: Bake in your preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and the pastry is fully cooked.

Step 14: Remove from the oven and let them cool for 3-5 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and prevents burning your mouth on the hot cheese.

Step 15: Serve immediately with HERDEZ™ Traditional Guacamole or your favorite dipping sauces.

Pro Tips for Perfect Empanadas Every Time

• Don’t overfill: Two tablespoons is the sweet spot – more will cause leaking
• Seal thoroughly: Press firmly and crimp well to prevent filling from escaping
• Keep dough cold: Work quickly so the pie crust doesn’t warm up too much
• Use parchment paper: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier
• Brush egg wash generously: This creates the beautiful golden color
• Don’t skip the cooling time: Hot filling needs a moment to set
• Space them properly: Touching empanadas won’t brown evenly

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Ground Beef Empanadas are incredibly versatile and pair well with many sides and toppings:

• Classic pairing: Serve with guacamole, sour cream, and salsa
• Side dishes: Spanish rice, black beans, or a fresh garden salad
• Toppings bar: Set out chopped cilantro, lime wedges, pickled jalapeños, and hot sauce
• Party platter: Arrange with various dipping sauces for guests to choose from
• Meal prep: Pack with a small container of guacamole for portable lunches

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store cooled empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it makes the pastry soggy.

Freezer Storage

These empanadas freeze beautifully! You can freeze them either before or after baking:

Unbaked: Assemble completely, place on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.

Baked: Cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these empanadas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the empanadas up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them unbaked. When ready to serve, brush with egg wash and bake as directed. They’re perfect for entertaining or meal prep.

What if I don’t have a pastry cutter?

No problem! Use a drinking glass or jar with a 3-inch diameter opening. Simply press down firmly to cut circles from the dough. You can also use a knife to cut squares instead of circles – they’ll just have a different appearance.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even plant-based meat alternatives work wonderfully in this recipe. Just adjust the seasonings slightly as needed, since turkey and chicken are milder than beef.

How do I prevent the empanadas from opening during baking?

The key is sealing them properly. Press the edges firmly together, then use a fork to crimp all along the curved edge. Also, avoid overfilling – too much filling puts pressure on the seal and can cause bursting.

Can I use homemade pie crust instead of store-bought?

Definitely! Homemade pie crust works great. Roll it to about 1/8-inch thickness before cutting circles. Your favorite pie dough recipe will work perfectly for this application.

What other dipping sauces work well with these empanadas?

Besides guacamole, try sour cream, salsa verde, pico de gallo, chimichurri, cilantro lime crema, or even ranch dressing. The savory beef filling pairs well with creamy, tangy, or spicy sauces.

Why are my empanadas soggy on the bottom?

This usually happens when they’re placed too close together on the baking sheet or if the filling is too wet. Make sure to space them properly and drain any excess liquid from the beef mixture before filling.

Can I make mini empanadas for appetizers?

Yes! Use a 2-inch cutter and reduce the filling to about 1 teaspoon per empanada. Baking time will decrease to about 7-8 minutes. Watch them carefully to avoid over-browning.

Nutritional Information

Each empanada (based on 16 servings) contains approximately:

• Calories: 185
• Protein: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 320mg

These values are estimates and will vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Equipment You’ll Need

Making these empanadas is easier with the right tools. Here’s what we recommend:

• Frying pans – For browning the ground beef and cooking the filling
• Baking sheets – Essential for baking the empanadas evenly
• Oven – For baking to golden perfection
• Cutting board – For prep work and assembly
• Kitchen utensils – Including wooden spoons, spatulas, and pastry brush
• Measuring cups and spoons set – For accurate ingredient portions
• Mixing bowls – For organizing ingredients

Final Thoughts

These Ground Beef Empanadas prove that impressive, delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With simple ingredients, refrigerated pie crust, and about 30 minutes, you can create a meal that rivals anything from a restaurant or food truck. The combination of seasoned beef, melted cheese, and flaky pastry is universally appealing, making these empanadas perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Make it your own by adjusting the spice level, trying different proteins, or adding your favorite vegetables to the filling. Once you master the basic technique, you’ll find yourself making these empanadas again and again.

Whether you’re looking for quick dinner ideas for busy weeknights or wanting to impress guests with a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these Ground Beef Empanadas deliver every time. Serve them hot from the oven with cool, creamy guacamole, and watch them disappear!

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Easy Ground Beef Empanadas Recipe : Quick 30-Minute Dinner Idea!

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Crispy, golden Ground Beef Empanadas filled with seasoned beef, melted cheese, green chiles, and pimento peppers. Ready in just 30 minutes using refrigerated pie crust for an easy weeknight dinner or party appetizer!

• Author: Sara
• Prep Time: 15
• Cook Time: 10
• Total Time: 25
• Yield: 16
• Category: Main Course, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Latin American, Mexican

Ingredients

1/2 pound ground beef

1/4 onion, diced

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon chili powder, or chipotle chili powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

4 ounces diced green chiles

4 ounces diced pimento peppers

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, or Mexican blend

2 refrigerated pie crusts

1 egg, whisked

HERDEZ™ Traditional Guacamole, for serving

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees and line a baking sheet with a nonstick baking mat or parchment paper.

2. Unroll pie crusts on a clean, flat surface. Use a 3-inch round pastry cutter to cut circles from the dough. (If desired, combine scraps, roll out, and cut again.)

3. In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef.

4. Stir in onions, cumin, chili powder, salt, green chiles, and pimento peppers. Saute 2-3 minutes.

5. Stir in tomato paste, followed by the cheese. Remove from heat.

6. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture into the center of each pie crust circle.

7. Fold dough over and use a fork to seal the dough all along the curved edge.

8. Arrange in a single layer, not touching, on prepared baking sheet. Brush empanadas with egg wash.

9. Bake for 10 minutes or until golden brown.

10. Allow to cool slightly before serving with HERDEZ™ Traditional Guacamole. Enjoy!

Notes

Don’t overfill the empanadas – 2 tablespoons is perfect to prevent bursting.

Seal edges firmly with a fork to keep filling inside during baking.

These freeze beautifully! Assemble and freeze unbaked for up to 3 months.

Reheat in oven at 350°F for best results – microwaving makes them soggy.

Customize with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat.

Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.