Empanadas(Meat Pies)
Savory meat empanadas filled with seasoned ground beef, olives, and hard-boiled eggs, perfect as snacks or appetizers for gatherings and flavorful meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in margarine until transparent.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned; drain excess fat.
- Mix cooked beef with chopped hard-boiled eggs, chopped olives, salt, cumin, oregano, and paprika.
- Allow the filling to cool.
- Place meat mixture on one half of each pie dough round and fold over.
- Crimp edges together to seal.
- Brush beaten egg over the crust surfaces.
- Bake in a 450°F oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve hot or cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding finely chopped bell peppers or garlic to the filling. If you prefer a different protein, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for beef. To enhance the texture, incorporate some shredded cheese. Remember to let the filling cool completely before assembling to prevent soggy dough.
Serving Suggestions
Empanadas are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or a side of salsa for dipping. You might also enjoy them with a side of guacamole or a spicy dipping sauce. For a complete meal, serve alongside Hearty Beef Goulash Soup or a light cucumber salad for balance.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. You can also freeze unbaked empanadas for up to 3 months; just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Empanadas(Meat Pies) contains roughly 383 calories, with 21g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (124% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), and protein (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. At about 383 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 empanadas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the empanadas in advance. Assemble them and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. They can also be frozen before baking. Just ensure to thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking for best results.
What is the best way to crimp the edges of the empanadas?
To properly crimp the edges of your empanadas, use your fingers to pinch and fold the dough, or use a fork to press down along the edges. This not only seals the filling inside but also creates a decorative edge.
Can I use store-bought dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using store-bought pie dough can save time and still yield delicious empanadas. Just make sure to roll it out slightly if it's too thick, and follow the same assembly instructions as with homemade dough.
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).