Empanadas
Golden, savory empanadas filled with seasoned beef and vegetables, perfect for a hearty snack or meal, appealing to those who love flavorful, handheld treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook hamburger, chopped onion, and chopped green pepper in a skillet for about 5 minutes; drain excess fat.
- Stir in undrained tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes.
- Place one pie crust on a greased cookie sheet at one end.
- Spoon half of the beef mixture onto one half of the pastry round.
- Leave a 1-inch border, fold the crust over the filling to seal, and brush with egg yolk.
- Repeat with remaining crust and filling at the other end of the cookie sheet.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20 minutes.
- Cut each empanada in half before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding olives or a sprinkle of cheese to the filling. If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger. Experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or add some chopped cilantro for freshness. Always taste the mixture before sealing the empanadas to adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these empanadas warm with a side of salsa or sour cream for dipping. A fresh Marinated Lettuce Salad complements them nicely for a light, refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider pairing with a side of Pigeon Peas And Rice, which adds heartiness and flavor to your table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy. You can also freeze unbaked empanadas; bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Empanadas contains roughly 1149 calories, with 56g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 86g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (128% of the Daily Value), and protein (113% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2242mg per serving (97% 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 use a different type of meat for the empanadas?
Absolutely! You can substitute the hamburger with ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian option like lentils or black beans. Adjust the spices accordingly to match the flavor profile of your chosen meat. Each alternative brings a unique taste to the empanadas.
How do I know when the empanadas are done baking?
The empanadas are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, typically around 20 minutes at 400°F. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to avoid overbaking. A kitchen timer can help you monitor the time accurately for perfect results.
Can I prepare the empanadas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble the empanadas later. Store the filling in the refrigerator for up to two days. If you want to freeze them, assemble the empanadas but do not bake them. Freeze them individually on a cookie sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for longer storage.
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).