Empanadas De Carne (Meat Empanada)
Empanadas de carne are savory meat-filled pastries with a rich, flavorful filling of ground beef, eggs, and vegetables, perfect for snacks, parties, or casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover the ground meat with water and cook until tender; save the stock.
- Fry chopped vegetables in a little oil until soft.
- Add 1 cup of meat stock to the vegetables and boil for 2 minutes.
- Add the finely chopped cooked meat to the mixture and boil for 5 minutes until well mixed.
- Stir in chopped cooked eggs, salt, pepper, garlic, and parsley.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika to the meat mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef and pork. Additionally, using leftover cooked meat can save time and enhance the taste. To enhance texture, add finely diced olives or raisins for a sweet contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve empanadas warm with a side of chimichurri or salsa for dipping. They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or a side of rice. You can also enjoy them alongside a hearty soup or stew, like Boiled Beef With Horseradish Sauce, for a complete meal. These empanadas make great appetizers or snacks for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy. You can also freeze unbaked empanadas for up to 2 months; bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Empanadas De Carne (Meat Empanada) contains roughly 1526 calories, with 17g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 122g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (208% of the Daily Value), iron (91% of the Daily Value), and potassium (52% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 880mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance. Allow it to cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to assemble the empanadas, simply fill the dough with the chilled mixture and proceed with baking. This can save time on busy days.
What type of dough should I use for empanadas?
You can use store-bought empanada dough for convenience, or make a simple homemade dough using flour, butter, and water. For a flakier texture, use cold butter and handle the dough minimally. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, there are various gluten-free dough recipes available.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking empanadas is a healthier alternative to frying. Brush the assembled empanadas with an egg wash before baking for a golden finish. Bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and flaky.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).