Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsLa CucharaBeef Empanadas Recipe

Beef Empanadas Recipe

Inspired by La Cuchara
Time2h
Serves12

Aji Amarillo Aïoli

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

For the Beef Filling

For the Aji Amarillo Aïoli

Method

For the Beef Filling

  1. 1

    Cook the Beef

    In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until onions are translucent.

  2. 2

    Add Ground Beef

    Add the ground beef to the skillet, season with cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.

  3. 3

    Mix in Other Ingredients

    Stir in chopped green olives and hard-boiled eggs. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.

For the Dough

  1. 4

    Prepare the Dough

    In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Add cold cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  2. 5

    Add Egg and Water

    Stir in the beaten egg and ice water gradually until the dough comes together. Knead lightly on a floured surface until smooth.

  3. 6

    Chill the Dough

    Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

For the Aji Amarillo Aïoli

  1. 7

    Combine Ingredients

    In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, aji amarillo paste, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt until smooth and well combined.

  2. 8

    Chill the Aïoli

    Cover and refrigerate the aïoli for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Assembling and Baking the Empanadas

  1. 9

    Preheat the Oven

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. 10

    Roll Out the Dough

    On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles using a round cutter or a glass.

  3. 11

    Fill the Empanadas

    Place a tablespoon of the beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges.

  4. 12

    Bake the Empanadas

    Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with a little olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

More from La Cuchara