Let me tell you, Mini Beef Empanadas are one of my absolute favorite snacks! These little pastries are bursting with seasoned ground beef and are just perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy night in or a lively gathering with friends. I love how they’re not just delicious but also so easy to make! The flaky dough gives way to a savory filling that’s simply irresistible. Plus, they’re super versatile; you can whip them up in no time and customize the filling however you like. Trust me, once you try these Mini Beef Empanadas, you’ll find yourself making them again and again. They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of biting into one of these tasty little gems!

Ingredients List

Alright, let’s gather everything you need to make these delightful Mini Beef Empanadas! Here’s your shopping list—make sure to grab these goodies:

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
1 package of empanada dough (you can usually find this in the frozen section)
1 egg, beaten (for that beautiful egg wash)

These ingredients come together to create a savory filling that’s just bursting with flavor. Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go, and you’ll be on your way to empanada heaven in no time!

How to Prepare Mini Beef Empanadas

Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into making these delicious Mini Beef Empanadas! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a batch of tasty treats in no time. Trust me, they’re worth every moment spent in the kitchen!

First things first, heat up the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. This is where the magic begins!
Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Oh, the aroma will get you excited!
Next, add in the ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up as you go. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Now, it’s time to spice things up! Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to really blend those flavors together. Yum!
Once your beef mixture is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a bit. This is super important because you don’t want to burn your fingers when filling the empanadas!
While the filling is cooling, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Get that oven nice and toasty for baking!
Now, roll out the empanada dough on a floured surface and cut it into circles. You want them to be about 4 inches in diameter—perfect for a good filling!
Place about a spoonful of the cooled beef filling onto the center of each dough circle. Don’t overstuff them, or they’ll burst open while baking!
Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges with a fork. This not only keeps the filling in but gives them that charming look, too!
Brush each empanada with the beaten egg for that gorgeous golden finish. Your friends will be impressed!
Finally, pop them in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and irresistible. Trust me; the wait will be worth it!

And there you have it! Your Mini Beef Empanadas are ready to be devoured. I can already imagine the joyful faces when they take that first bite!

Nutritional Information

Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for these scrumptious Mini Beef Empanadas. Keep in mind, this is just an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use:

Serving Size: 2 empanadas
Calories: 250
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 300mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 10g

This gives you a good idea of what’s in these delightful bites. They’re not just tasty but also quite satisfying! Enjoy these Mini Beef Empanadas guilt-free, knowing they pack a flavorful punch without going overboard on calories!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare—ready in under an hour!
Easy to serve; just pop them on a platter and watch them disappear!
Flavorful filling that’s seasoned to perfection—every bite is a delight!
Perfect for gatherings, parties, or even a cozy family dinner—everyone loves them!
Versatile with fillings; swap out the beef for chicken, veggies, or beans for a personal twist!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your Mini Beef Empanadas turn out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips to help you nail them every time:

Sealing the Edges: When you fold the dough over, press it down gently but firmly to seal it. Then, use the tines of a fork to crimp the edges. This not only looks cute but also ensures your filling stays put while baking!
Chill the Dough: If you find the dough too soft to handle, pop it in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes. This makes it easier to roll out and shape without sticking to everything!
Egg Wash Magic: Don’t skip the egg wash! Brushing the tops with a beaten egg gives your empanadas that beautiful golden-brown color and a lovely sheen. Your friends will think you’re a pro chef!
Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on them as they bake! Ovens can vary, so check for that perfect golden color around the 20-minute mark. You want them crispy but not burnt—nobody likes a charred empanada!
Let Them Cool: After baking, let your empanadas cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. This helps keep the bottoms crispy instead of getting soggy. Plus, it’s a great time to whip up that salsa!

Follow these tips, and you’ll be on your way to making Mini Beef Empanadas that are not only delicious but also look like they came straight from a fancy restaurant. Enjoy the process—it’s all part of the fun!

Variations

One of the best things about Mini Beef Empanadas is how flexible they are! You can easily switch up the filling to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Chicken or Turkey: Swap out the ground beef for ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option. Season them with similar spices for that classic empanada flavor!
Vegetarian Delight: Use a mix of sautéed veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach. Add some black beans or lentils for protein, and don’t forget the spices!
Spicy Kick: If you’re feeling adventurous, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for a spicy twist. Your taste buds will thank you!
Cheesy Goodness: Mix in some shredded cheese—think cheddar, mozzarella, or even a bit of feta! It adds a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the savory filling.
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate your empanadas. Try adding some chopped cilantro or parsley to the filling for a fresh, vibrant flavor.
Southwestern Flair: For a twist, add some corn and chipotle seasoning to your beef filling. Serve with a zesty avocado salsa for a fantastic pairing!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas as you please. The beauty of Mini Beef Empanadas lies in their versatility, so don’t hesitate to make them your own! I can’t wait to see what delicious combinations you come up with!

Serving Suggestions

Now that your Mini Beef Empanadas are all baked and golden, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside them! Trust me, the right accompaniments can take your empanadas to the next level. Here are some of my favorite options:

Salsa: A fresh salsa is a must! Try a classic tomato salsa or a zesty mango salsa for a sweet twist. The vibrant flavors will complement the savory filling perfectly!
Guacamole: You can’t go wrong with creamy guacamole! Its rich texture pairs beautifully with the crispy empanadas. Plus, who doesn’t love avocado?
Yogurt Dip: A cool yogurt dip with a sprinkle of lime juice and fresh herbs can add a refreshing contrast to the warm empanadas. It’s a simple yet effective pairing!
Side Salad: Lighten things up with a crisp side salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the empanadas.
Hot Sauce: For those who like a kick, set out a few bottles of your favorite hot sauce! It’s a fun way for everyone to customize their bite.

These serving suggestions will make your Mini Beef Empanadas even more enjoyable. So gather your friends and family, set up a little dipping station, and watch everyone dig in with delight! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got some leftover Mini Beef Empanadas? No worries! They store beautifully, and I’m here to share the best ways to keep them fresh and delicious for when those cravings hit again!

First, let your empanadas cool completely before storing them. This helps prevent any condensation from forming, which could make them soggy. Once they’re cool, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re well-sealed to keep that flaky texture intact!

If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze the empanadas before or after baking. If you choose to freeze them unbaked, arrange them on a baking sheet so they’re not touching and pop them in the freezer until they’re solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last up to 3 months this way!

Now, when it comes time to reheat, I’ve got a couple of great methods for you:

Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the empanadas on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes if they’re thawed, or 25-30 minutes if they’re frozen. This way, they’ll get nice and crispy again!
Air Fryer: If you have an air fryer, it’s a fantastic option! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and air fry the empanadas for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’ll come out golden and delicious!
Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too, but it can make them a bit softer. Heat them on a microwave-safe plate for about 30-60 seconds, depending on your microwave’s power. Just know they won’t be as crispy this way!

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Mini Beef Empanadas anytime! Whether you’re having a solo snack or sharing with friends, they’ll still pack that same delightful flavor and texture. Happy snacking!

FAQ Section

Can I make Mini Beef Empanadas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the Mini Beef Empanadas and store them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. If you want to make them even further in advance, feel free to freeze them unbaked. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you bake them from frozen!

What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can use ground chicken, turkey, or even a mix of sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian version. Just make sure to season the filling well to keep that delicious flavor intact!

How do I know when the empanadas are done baking?
Keep an eye on them while they bake! They’re done when they’re golden brown and flaky. The filling should be hot and bubbly, so if they look beautiful and smell divine, you’re good to go!

Can I bake these empanadas in an air fryer?
Yes, you can! Air frying Mini Beef Empanadas gives them a lovely crispy texture. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

What’s the best way to serve Mini Beef Empanadas?
I love serving them with a variety of dips! Salsa, guacamole, and a refreshing yogurt sauce are all fantastic options. It’s a fun way to let everyone customize their bites!

Mini Beef Empanadas: 5 Easy Steps to Irresistible Treats

Author: [email protected]
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 24 mini empanadas 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Latin American
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Mini Beef Empanadas are small pastries filled with seasoned ground beef. They are perfect for appetizers or snacks.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
Add ground beef, cook until browned.
Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 more minutes.
Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out empanada dough and cut into circles.
Place a spoonful of beef filling on each circle.
Fold over and seal the edges with a fork.
Brush with beaten egg.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Notes

Serve with salsa or dipping sauce.
You can use ground chicken or turkey as a substitute.
Make ahead and freeze before baking.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 empanadas
Calories: 250
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Mini Beef Empanadas, Beef Pastry, Appetizer

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