Jul 09 2026

Empanadas Recipe

Time1h 30m
Serves12

Stuffed pastries filled with beef or chicken.

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Ingredients

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Dough

Method

Dough Preparation

  1. 1

    Mix the Dry Ingredients

    In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Mix well.

  2. 2

    Incorporate Butter

    Cut the unsalted butter into small cubes and add it to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  3. 3

    Add Wet Ingredients

    In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and cold water together. Gradually add this mixture to the flour mixture, stirring until the dough comes together.

  4. 4

    Knead the Dough

    Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently for about 5 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Filling Preparation

  1. 5

    Cook the Filling

    In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

  2. 6

    Add the Meat

    Add the ground beef or chicken to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula, about 7-10 minutes.

  3. 7

    Season the Mixture

    Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes until well combined. Remove from heat and let cool.

Assembly and Baking

  1. 8

    Roll Out the Dough

    Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter to cut out circles (about 4-5 inches in diameter).

  2. 9

    Fill the Empanadas

    Place a tablespoon of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill.

  3. 10

    Seal the Empanadas

    Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, and crimp with a fork for extra security.

  4. 11

    Egg Wash and Bake

    Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

  5. 12

    Serve

    Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your empanadas warm!

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