Easy Ground Beef Empanada Recipe

Empanadas are a delicious and versatile dish that can be filled with a variety of different ingredients. This easy ground beef empanada recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup vegetable shortening, chilled and diced
• 1/4 cup ice water
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add the ice water and mix until the dough just comes together.
3. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. While the dough is chilling, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Add the ground beef, onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper.
6. Cook until the beef is browned and the vegetables are softened, about 10 minutes.
7. Add the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
8. Cook for another minute or two, or until the spices are fragrant.
9. Remove the filling from the heat and set it aside to cool.
10. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
11. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
12. Cut the dough into 4-inch circles.
13. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each circle.
14. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and crimp the edges to seal.
15. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
16. Brush the empanadas with the beaten egg.
17. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
18. Serve immediately.

FAQ

Q: What can use instead of ground beef?

You can use any type of ground meat in this recipe, such as chicken, turkey, or pork. You can also use tofu or beans for a vegetarian option.

Q: What can use instead of all-purpose flour?

You can use whole wheat flour, gluten-free flour, or a combination of flours in this recipe.

Q: What can use instead of shortening?

You can use butter, lard, or vegetable oil in this recipe.

Q: How can make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to make the empanadas, simply reheat the filling over low heat until warmed through.

Q: How can freeze the empanadas?

Yes, you can freeze the empanadas before baking. Simply place the unbaked empanadas on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once they are frozen solid, you can