Giant Epanadas
Giant empanadas filled with seasoned ground beef, vegetables, raisins, and boiled egg, baked to golden perfection—delightful for casual gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté beef, onion, and green pepper in butter for 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in tomatoes and spices. Simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally for 15 minutes.
- Drain the mixture and set aside.
- Place one pie crust on a greased cookie sheet.
- Spoon half the mixture onto one half of the crust, leaving a 1-inch border.
- Top with chopped boiled egg and raisins.
- Fold the crust over to cover the filling; press edges together firmly.
- Brush the top with beaten egg yolk.
- Repeat with the second pie crust and remaining filling.
- Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms to maintain flavor and texture. You can also add spices like smoked paprika for an extra kick. If you prefer a crispier crust, brush the edges with egg wash before baking. Consider using store-bought pie crust for convenience, but homemade will yield a flakier texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these giant empanadas with a side of fresh salsa or guacamole for a zesty pairing. A crisp green salad or seasoned rice, like Beefy Mushroom Rice, complements the dish well. These empanadas also make great appetizers for gatherings or game day, ensuring everyone enjoys a hearty bite.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover empanadas should be stored 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 warmed through and crispy. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a quicker option, though they may lose some crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Giant Epanadas contains roughly 597 calories, with 29g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (353% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (86% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2051mg per serving (89% 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 freeze the empanadas before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled empanadas before baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of beans and vegetables for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that any alternative has a similar texture and flavor profile to maintain the essence of the dish.
How do I know when the empanadas are done baking?
The empanadas are done when they are golden brown and have a crisp texture. You can also check the filling by cutting one open; it should be hot throughout. If they are browning too quickly, cover them loosely with foil to prevent burning.
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).