Savory Baked Empanadas with Ground Beef Filling

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Savory Baked Empanadas with Ground Beef Filling are a delightful treat that combines a flaky, golden crust with a flavorful, seasoned beef filling. Perfect as an appetizer for gatherings or a satisfying snack, these empanadas are easy to make and sure to impress your guests with their appetizing appearance and mouthwatering taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Savory Baked Empanadas are not only delicious but also versatile and simple to prepare. They can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving, making them ideal for parties or family gatherings.

• Easy to Prepare: With a straightforward dough and filling, these empanadas come together quickly.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different fillings to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Sharing: Bite-sized and easy to handle, they’re great for any social occasion.
• Golden and Flaky: The baked crust is satisfying and beautiful to present.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (for topping)

How to Make Savory Baked Empanadas

1. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add the cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. While the dough is chilling, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute, then remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out 4-5 inch circles using a round cutter or a glass.
8. Place a tablespoon of the beef filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
9. Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Tips for the Best Results

• Ensure the butter is cold for a flaky crust.
• Don’t overfill the empanadas to prevent bursting during baking.
• You can make the dough and filling in advance to save time on the day of serving.

Easy Variations

• Substitute the ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or even a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian option.
• Add cheese, olives, or diced peppers to the filling for extra flavor.
• Experiment with spices like chili powder or oregano to customize the seasoning.

What to Serve With It

• A fresh green salad with vinaigrette for a light pairing.
• Spicy salsa or chimichurri sauce for dipping.
• A side of guacamole for a creamy contrast.

Storage and Reheating

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Store any leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also freeze unbaked empanadas for up to 3 months; just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

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