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Easy Homemade Empanadas photo

Homemade Empanadas

These homemade empanadas are a delightful, flaky treat filled with savory beef and spices. Perfect for impressing guests!
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cubed cold unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg for binding
  • cup milk helps create tender dough
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil adds moisture and flavor

For the Filling:

  • 1 small yellow onion chopped
  • ½ cup finely diced jalapeño about 1 medium jalapeño
  • 1 pound ground beef main protein
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste adds depth
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder for warmth
  • 1 teaspoon paprika for color and flavor
  • 1 teaspoon cumin provides earthy flavor
  • ½ teaspoon oregano for herby goodness
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning
  • 1 cup beef broth adds moisture
  • 1 medium potato small diced
  • ½ cup frozen peas for color and sweetness
  • 2 tablespoons water to mix with egg for wash

Instructions

Homemade Empanadas in Steps

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the cubed cold unsalted butter, using a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and olive oil. Gradually add this mixture to the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Knead gently on a floured surface until smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  • While the dough is chilling, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add the diced jalapeño and cook for another 2 minutes. Next, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, then drain excess fat. Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth, then add the diced potatoes and frozen peas. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.
  • Once the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles of dough.
  • Place a tablespoon of the beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill! Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal, then crimp with a fork for a decorative touch.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush the egg wash over the tops of the empanadas to give them a beautiful golden color when baked.
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the empanadas on the sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp.
  • Once baked, remove the empanadas from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm, and enjoy the delicious flavors of your homemade empanadas!

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Rolling Pin
  • Knife or pastry cutter
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Brush
  • Skillet

Notes

  • Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes for better texture.
  • Feel free to customize the filling with different meats or vegetables.
  • Empanadas freeze well; bake directly from frozen for a quick meal.