Beef Empanadas Filling: A Delicious Recipe for Perfectly Stuffed Pastries

Beef empanadas filling is a delightful blend of flavors that transports you straight to the heart of Latin American cuisine. These savory pastries, filled with seasoned ground beef, have a rich history that dates back to the 16th century, when they were introduced by Spanish explorers. Over the years, they have evolved into a beloved dish across various cultures, each adding their unique twist to the filling. What I love most about beef empanadas filling is its perfect balance of taste and texture; the tender, spiced beef mingles beautifully with onions, olives, and spices, all encased in a golden, flaky crust. Not only are they delicious, but they are also incredibly convenient for gatherings or a quick weeknight meal. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why beef empanadas filling has captured the hearts and taste buds of so many!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium bell pepper, finely chopped (any color)
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced into small cubes
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup green olives, chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Filling

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into making the delicious beef filling for our empanadas. This filling is packed with flavor and will make your empanadas irresistible!

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. This will help to sauté our vegetables and beef evenly.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and the bell pepper softens. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Add Garlic: Once the onions and peppers are ready, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
4. Brown the Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Incorporate the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the beef and vegetables. The potatoes will add a nice texture to the filling.
6. Season the Mixture: Sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly to ensure the spices coat the beef and vegetables evenly.
7. Cook the Potatoes: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture cook for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The potatoes should be tender by the end of this step.
8. Add Olives and Raisins: If you’re using olives and raisins, stir them into the mixture now. They add a wonderful contrast of flavors and textures. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
9. Taste and Adjust: Before removing the filling from the heat, taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You want it to be flavorful and well-balanced.
10. Cool the Filling: Once the filling is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool completely. This is important because hot filling can make the empanada dough soggy.

Assembling the Empanadas

Now that our filling is ready and cooled, it’s time to assemble the empanadas. This is where the fun begins!

1. Prepare the Dough: If you’re using store-bought empanada dough, take it out of the fridge to soften. If you’re making your own dough, roll it out on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick.
2. Cut the Dough: Use a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles from the dough. Gather any scraps and re-roll them to make more circles.
3. Fill the Dough: Place about 1-2 tablespoons of the cooled beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make sealing difficult.
4. Seal the Empanadas: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal. You can use a

Conclusion:

In summary, this Beef Empanadas Filling recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their culinary skills and impress their friends and family. The combination of seasoned ground beef, aromatic spices, and fresh ingredients creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a cozy family dinner, or just craving a delicious snack, these empanadas are sure to be a hit. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing your empanadas with a zesty chimichurri sauce or a tangy salsa for an extra kick. You can also experiment with variations by adding ingredients like olives, hard-boiled eggs, or even cheese to the filling for a unique twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using different types of meat or even a vegetarian filling to cater to various tastes. I encourage you to give this Beef Empanadas Filling recipe a try and share your experience with me! I’d love to hear how they turned out for you and any creative variations you came up with. Cooking is all about experimenting and having fun, so don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

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