Empanadas are one of those dishes that always seem to bring people together. Crispy, golden-brown pockets of dough filled with savory ingredients? Honestly, what’s not to love? Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a party appetizer, or just because you’re craving something deliciously comforting, these empanadas are guaranteed to satisfy. The best part? They’re customizable to suit whatever fillings you have on hand, so you can truly make them your own. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love Empanadas

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients

Let’s talk ingredients! Empanadas are all about that perfect balance of crispy pastry and flavorful filling. Here’s what you’ll need to create that magical combination:

Dough:
The base of your empanada. This buttery, flaky dough comes together in just a few steps and holds the filling perfectly. It crisps up beautifully in the oven, giving you that irresistible crunch on the outside.

Ground Beef (or alternative protein):
Ground beef is the classic choice for empanadas, but you can use ground chicken, pork, or even beans if you’re looking for a vegetarian twist. It brings savory richness and a hearty texture to each bite.

Onion:
Adds a sweet, aromatic depth to the filling. It caramelizes slightly while cooking, giving the empanadas a subtle sweetness that balances the savory beef.

Garlic:
A little garlic goes a long way in building flavor. It infuses the filling with its fragrant goodness, making each bite just a touch more irresistible.

Olives:
Olives bring that briny, tangy punch that cuts through the richness of the beef. They’re one of those ingredients that make you think, “Wow, this is next-level good.”

Hard-Boiled Eggs:
Chopped hard-boiled eggs add texture and a creamy richness to the filling. They’re a classic addition in many empanada recipes, and they make the filling extra satisfying.

Spices (Cumin, Paprika, Salt, and Pepper):
These spices work together to create a deep, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory beef. The paprika adds a smoky note, and the cumin gives it that warm, cozy vibe.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Make the Dough
In a large bowl, combine your flour, salt, and butter, mixing until the dough resembles small crumbs. Gradually add water, a little at a time, until a dough forms. Knead until smooth, then cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic until softened and fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in the olives, spices, and chopped hard-boiled eggs. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the filling cool slightly.

Assemble the Empanadas
Roll out your dough on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8-inch thick. Cut circles using a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter). Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle, then fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges to seal, using a fork to crimp the edges for a pretty finish.

Cook to Perfection
Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush them with a beaten egg for a golden, glossy finish. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy
Serve the empanadas warm with a side of chimichurri, salsa, or a simple green salad. Enjoy every crispy, savory bite!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 300

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve Empanadas

These empanadas are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right sides can make the meal even more satisfying. Here are a few ideas:

Fresh Salads: A light, fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette will contrast beautifully with the rich, savory empanadas.
Dips: Serve with chimichurri, sour cream, or a spicy salsa for extra flavor.
Rice and Beans: For a more substantial meal, pair the empanadas with a side of rice and beans.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables, like bell peppers or sweet potatoes, make for a lovely, healthy addition to your plate.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Make the Dough Ahead: You can prepare the dough the night before and store it in the fridge. This makes assembly even quicker!
Spice It Up: Add some chili flakes or a dash of cayenne if you like a bit of heat in your empanadas.
Freeze the Empanadas: These freeze beautifully! Once assembled, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy.
Vegan Version: Use a plant-based protein like lentils or tofu, and skip the eggs and cheese to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
A1: Absolutely! You can use ground chicken, pork, or even a plant-based protein like lentils or tofu for a vegetarian version.

Q2: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can make the dough a day ahead, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to roll it out.

Q3: Can I make these empanadas ahead of time?
A3: You sure can! Once assembled, store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Or freeze them for later use.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store any leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to crisp them up again.

Q5: Can I freeze empanadas?
A5: Yes, these freeze really well! Just freeze them on a baking sheet and then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes.

Q6: What can I serve with empanadas?
A6: Pair them with a fresh salad, salsa, or a dipping sauce like chimichurri for an extra burst of flavor.

Q7: Can I use store-bought dough?
A7: Sure! If you’re short on time, store-bought empanada dough will work just fine.

Q8: How do I make sure the filling doesn’t leak out?
A8: Be sure to seal the edges of the dough tightly, and crimp them with a fork. That should keep the filling in place while baking.

Q9: How do I reheat empanadas?
A9: Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes for that crispy texture, or microwave them for 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Definitely! These empanadas are perfect for feeding a crowd, and you can easily double the recipe if needed.

Conclusion

Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because you deserve something delicious, empanadas are a sure-fire way to bring some joy to your table. With a crispy, golden crust and savory filling, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. So roll up your sleeves, get the ingredients ready, and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness that is homemade empanadas!