This crispy Argentine empanadas recipe brings the delightful taste of traditional Latin American cuisine right to your kitchen. With a savory beef filling wrapped in homemade dough, these empanadas are perfect for any meal or snack. They are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite added ingredients.
why make this recipe
Making empanadas at home allows you to control the flavors and ingredients, making them healthier and more tailored to your taste. This recipe is simple enough for beginners and delivers authentic flavors that will impress family and friends. Once you taste the crispy crust and rich filling, you’ll understand why they are a beloved dish in many cultures.
how to make Crispy Argentine Empanadas
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ⅓ to ½ cup (80-120ml) cold water
- 1 large egg (for brushing, optional)
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef, lean
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ¼ cup (60ml) beef broth or water
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional extras: green olives sliced, raisins, shredded cheese (mozzarella or queso fresco)
Directions:
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Make the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add â…“ cup of cold water, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Add more water as needed. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
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Prepare the Filling: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil. Sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 8 minutes. Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, chili flakes, and tomato paste. Pour in the beef broth and simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper, and then stir in the chopped hard-boiled eggs and parsley. Let the filling cool completely.
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Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll the chilled dough to about â…›-inch thickness. Cut circles about 5-6 inches in diameter using a cutter or bowl.
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Assemble the Empanadas: Place about 2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each dough circle. Add optional extras if desired. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges gently and crimp with a fork to seal. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Apply Egg Wash and Bake: Beat the egg and brush it over the empanadas for a golden finish. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes until the crust is crisp and golden. If they are browning too fast, cover loosely with foil for the last 5-10 minutes.
how to serve Crispy Argentine Empanadas
Serve the empanadas warm as a snack or light meal. They also pair well with a side of chimichurri sauce or a fresh salad.
how to store Crispy Argentine Empanadas
Store any leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they are heated through.
tips to make Crispy Argentine Empanadas
- For extra flavor, let the filling cool completely before using it.
- Experiment with different fillings, such as chicken, cheese, or vegetables.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch and to ensure they are sealed well.
variation
You can also make sweet empanadas by using fruit fillings like apples, peaches, or dulce de leche. Just follow the same dough preparation and assembly steps.
FAQs
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Can I freeze empanadas?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked empanadas. Just assemble them, place them on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen when ready to eat; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. -
What frying options do I have?
You can fry the empanadas in hot oil if you prefer them crispy. Heat oil in a deep pan and fry until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. -
Can I use a store-bought dough?
Absolutely! Using store-bought dough can save you time and still deliver delicious results. Just follow the instructions for shaping and baking on the package.
