Spicy Beef Empanadas

Gather around, because I’m about to introduce you to a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen—Spicy Beef Empanadas. These handheld pockets of goodness are packed with bold flavors and just the right amount of heat. Imagine biting into a crispy, golden pastry only to discover a filling of perfectly seasoned ground beef, warm spices, and a touch of fiery jalapeños. These empanadas are the ultimate comfort food, whether you’re serving them at a party, packing them for lunch, or enjoying them as a quick snack.

What I love most about these empanadas is how easy they are to customize. You can play with the level of spiciness by adding more or less chili, or even swap out the beef for chicken or veggies if that’s your thing. The dough is buttery and flaky, hugging the flavorful filling in the most delightful way. And let’s not forget the dipping sauces—pair these with a cooling cilantro-lime crema or a smoky chipotle sauce for the ultimate experience.

Whether you’re new to making empanadas or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward and incredibly satisfying. The process of making the dough, filling, and then sealing each empanada is almost therapeutic, and the reward is a batch of delicious, spicy beef empanadas that are sure to impress.

Recipe Summary:
These Spicy Beef Empanadas are the perfect combination of crispy, flaky pastry and a rich, spicy beef filling. They’re easy to make, versatile, and absolutely packed with flavor. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce for a treat that’s sure to satisfy.

Exciting Story:
The first time I made Spicy Beef Empanadas, it was for a family game night, and let me tell you, they were a hit. My husband, who’s a fan of all things spicy, couldn’t get enough of them. I remember watching him reach for his third empanada before I had even finished my first! Our little one, who usually shies away from anything with a kick, surprised us all by happily munching away, only pausing to ask for more. Since then, these empanadas have become a must-have at all our family gatherings. There’s something so comforting about knowing that you’ve got a go-to recipe that everyone loves, no matter how picky they might be.

Why These Spicy Beef Empanadas?

Selling Points:

• Bold, Spicy Flavor: The ground beef is seasoned with a perfect blend of spices, including cumin, paprika, and a kick of jalapeño, making every bite full of flavor.
• Flaky, Buttery Crust: The homemade dough is easy to work with and bakes up golden and flaky, creating the perfect contrast to the spicy filling.
• Versatile: These empanadas are great as a snack, appetizer, or even a main course, and they can be customized with different fillings to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Make a big batch ahead of time and freeze them—just bake and serve when needed. They’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

How to Make Spicy Beef Empanadas:

Start by preparing the dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the chilled, cubed butter, and using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, ice water, and vinegar. Gradually add this mixture to the flour, stirring until the dough begins to come together. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently until smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

While the dough chills, prepare the filling. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.

Season the beef with cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the chopped jalapeño, tomato paste, and beef broth. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, until thickened and fragrant. Stir in the fresh cilantro and remove from heat. Let the filling cool slightly.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles of dough. Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each circle, being careful not to overfill.

Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, then press the edges together with a fork to seal. Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet and brush each one with the egg wash for a golden, shiny finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crisp.

Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as cilantro-lime crema or chipotle mayo.

Tips:

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough before rolling it out makes it easier to handle and helps it bake up flaky and tender.
• Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the empanadas, as they can burst open during baking.
• Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of jalapeño or cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.

Substitutions and Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian version.
• Cheese Lovers: Add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese to the filling for a cheesy twist.
• Different Proteins: Swap the ground beef for ground chicken, turkey, or even crumbled tofu for a different take on the filling.

Make a Healthier Version:

• Whole Wheat Dough: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier dough option.
• Lean Protein: Opt for lean ground beef or turkey to reduce the fat content in the filling.
• Bake, Don’t Fry: Baking instead of frying reduces the overall fat and calorie content of the empanadas.

Closing:
And there you have it—Spicy Beef Empanadas that are crispy on the outside, juicy and flavorful on the inside, and sure to be a hit at any table. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, these empanadas are a fun and delicious way to spice up your meal. Don’t forget to share how they turned out for you, and be sure to check out our other recipes for more culinary adventures!

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I freeze these empanadas?
   Yes, you can freeze uncooked empanadas and bake them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy them.
2. How do I reheat leftovers?
   Reheat leftover empanadas in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
3. Can I fry these instead of baking?
   Yes, you can deep-fry the empanadas for a different texture, but baking is a healthier option.
4. What dipping sauces go well with these empanadas?
   Cilantro-lime crema, chipotle mayo, or even a simple salsa all pair well with these spicy beef empanadas.
5. Can I use store-bought dough?
   Absolutely! Store-bought pie crust or puff pastry can be used if you’re short on time.
6. How spicy are these empanadas?
   The spice level is adjustable—use less cayenne or jalapeño for a milder flavor, or add more if you like it hot!