Delicious Beef Empanadas Recipe: Bake or Fry Your Way to Bliss

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

There s something truly heartwarming about the aroma wafting through the kitchen as you prepare Beef Empanadas, a cherished staple in Filipino cuisine. Picture this: a golden, flaky crust crisping up to perfection while you eagerly anticipate that first bite filled with savory ground beef, sweet raisins, and vibrant green peas. Whether you re indulging in a comforting baked version or opting for the delightful crunch of fried empanadas, the experience is irresistibly satisfying.

I stumbled upon this recipe on a rainy afternoon when cravings for cozy, home-cooked meals struck. The beauty of these empanadas lies not just in their crunchy exterior but also in their versatility, making them suitable for easy weeknight dinners or festive gatherings with friends and family. Plus, they are quick to prep and perfect for a make-ahead dish that freezes beautifully. So let s dive into this delightful Beef Empanadas recipe that promises delicious flavors and the comfort of Filipino heritage in each bite!

Why love this Beef Empanadas Recipe?

Satisfying Comfort: Every bite of these empanadas brings warmth and nostalgia, perfect for cozy nights in.
Versatile Options: Bake or fry to suit your mood or dietary preferences.
Quick to Prepare: Ideal for busy weeknights when you re craving homemade goodness without the fuss.
Flavor Explosion: A delightful blend of savory beef, sweet raisins, and aromatic spices tantalizes your taste buds.
Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Perfect for gatherings; they disappear quickly, leaving everyone wanting more!
Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy piping hot empanadas whenever the craving strikes!

Beef Empanadas Ingredients

For the Filling
Ground Beef Rich and flavorful, opt for lean ground beef (85%) for the best results.
Raisins Introduces a touch of sweetness that beautifully balances the savory meat; you can swap with dried cranberries for a tangy kick.
Green Peas Adds a burst of color and texture; frozen peas work perfectly for convenience.
Yellow Onion Enhances the filling s taste when sautéed; shallots can be a milder substitute.
Beef Broth Brings moisture and richness to the filling; use vegetable broth for a lighter profile.
Salt Important for seasoning; adjust based on your taste preferences.
Paprika Contributes subtle smokiness and vibrant color; omit if unavailable.
Ground Black Pepper Adds a warm hint of spice to the filling.
Granulated Sugar Balances flavors in the filling; brown sugar can add a deeper flavor.

For the Dough
All-Purpose Flour The foundation for your dough, providing essential structure; gluten-free flour can work for a gluten-free option.
Unsalted Butter Ensures a flaky texture in the dough; remember to keep it cold for the best results.
Baking Powder Helps create a light, airy dough that s a delight to bite into.
Ice Cold Water Combines with the flour to form the dough and maintain perfect flakiness.

For Cooking
Cooking Oil Necessary for sautéing and frying; consider olive oil for a healthier alternative.
Additional Cooking Oil (for frying) Use as needed to achieve that golden brown perfection when frying your empanadas.

With these simple yet flavorful ingredients in hand, you re on your way to creating a batch of delightful Beef Empanadas that will surely impress!

How to Make Beef Empanadas

1. Prepare the Filling: Heat cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped yellow onion until translucent, then add the ground beef and cook for about 5 minutes until browned.
2. Mix Ingredients: Stir in the raisins, paprika, sugar, and salt. Pour in the beef broth, cover, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened and flavorful.
3. Add Green Peas: Mix in the green peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Once done, transfer the filling to a bowl and allow it to cool.
4. Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
5. Cut in Butter: Using a pastry blender or your fingers, cut the cold unsalted butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
6. Form the Dough: Gradually add ice cold water to the mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Shape the dough into balls, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 20-25 minutes.
7. Roll Out Dough: Lightly flour the surface and roll out each dough ball into circles about 6 inches in diameter. Place a spoonful of the cooled filling in the center of each circle.
8. Seal the Empanadas: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, using a fork to crimp for extra security.
9. Fry the Empanadas: Heat enough cooking oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Fry the empanadas for 3-5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides.
10. Drain and Serve: Remove cooked empanadas from the oil and drain them on paper towels. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Optional: Serve with a tangy vinegar sauce or spicy salsa for added flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Beef Empanadas

Room Temperature: Store leftover cooked empanadas at room temperature for up to 2 hours. If not consumed, transfer them to the fridge to maintain freshness.

Fridge: For best results, refrigerate cooked empanadas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a crispy texture or in the microwave for a quick option.

Freezer: Uncooked beef empanadas can be frozen for up to 3 months. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Fry directly from the freezer, adding extra cooking time as needed.

Reheating: To reheat cooked empanadas, preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C) and bake for 8-10 minutes until warmed through and crispy.

Make Ahead Options

These Beef Empanadas are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance; simply cool it completely after cooking, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can assemble the uncooked empanadas and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying or baking. For even longer storage, freeze the uncooked empanadas directly on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, fry them straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time. This ensures your Beef Empanadas remain just as delicious, crispy, and satisfying as freshly made!

Beef Empanadas Recipe Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with these beef empanadas to make them truly your own! Each suggestion enhances flavor or adjusts for dietary preferences.

• Healthier Option: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner filling without sacrificing flavor.
• Vegetarian Delight: Replace meat with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and cheese for a hearty veggie empanada that satisfies.
• Cheesy Twist: Add shredded cheese into the beef filling, adding creamy goodness that melts into every bite.
• Sweet & Savory: Try using dried apricots or figs instead of raisins for a unique sweetness that complements the spices.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the dough, allowing everyone to enjoy these delicious treats.
• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling for those who crave a bit of heat in every bite.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil in the filling for added freshness and vibrancy.
• Baking Option: Brush with egg wash and bake instead of frying, providing a healthier alternative without losing that deliciousness!

Embrace your inner chef and discover new ways to enjoy these savory delights!

What to Serve with Beef Empanadas?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement the warmth and crunch of these savory turnovers.

• Tangy Vinegar Sauce: A perfect dip that adds a refreshing zing, enhancing the rich flavors of your empanadas.
• Spicy Salsa: This vibrant accompaniment adds a kick, balancing the savory and sweet notes of the empanadas beautifully.
• Crisp Coleslaw: The crunch of fresh cabbage and carrots contrasts wonderfully with the flaky texture of the empanadas, refreshing each bite.
• Garlicky Aioli: This creamy sauce brings an extra layer of flavor, adding a rich and indulgent touch to each morsel.
• Steamed Rice: A fluffy side of rice makes for a heartier meal, soaking up any delicious remnants of dipping sauces while complementing the flavors.
• Chilled Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing side that balances the savoriness with natural sweetness, perfect for a lighter meal option.
• Herbal Tea: Sipping on a fragrant herbal tea will cleanse your palate between bites, enhancing the overall experience.
• Chocolate Cake: For a sweet ending, the rich, decadent flavors of chocolate cake make a satisfying counterpart to the savory empanadas.
• Craft Beer: Pairing these empanadas with a crisp craft beer can elevate the experience, enhancing both flavors and enjoyment.

Expert Tips for Perfect Beef Empanadas

• Keep it Cold: Ensure your butter remains cold while making the dough; this is essential for achieving a flaky texture in your Beef Empanadas.
• Seal Properly: Use a fork to press down firmly on the edges, preventing filling from leaking out during frying.
• Temperature Check: Test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough; it should bubble and rise immediately, indicating the right frying temperature.
• Bake or Fry: If opting to bake, brush the empanadas with egg wash for a golden finish and follow proper baking instructions for best results.
• Don t Overfill: Avoid the temptation to overstuff; a little filling goes a long way, ensuring easy sealing and even cooking.

Beef Empanadas Recipe FAQs

What type of ground beef should I use for the filling?
Use lean ground beef, ideally around 85% lean, to ensure rich flavor without excessive grease. This choice provides a perfect balance of tenderness and taste in your beef empanadas.

Can I freeze uncooked beef empanadas?
Absolutely! Arrange uncooked empanadas in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months, and you can fry them straight from frozen, just adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How should I store leftover empanadas?
Store leftover cooked empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I recommend placing them in a preheated oven at 350 °F (175 °C) for about 8-10 minutes; this will keep them crispy and delicious!

What should I do if the dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, it s likely needing a bit more flour. I recommend gradually adding a tablespoon of flour while kneading until you achieve a dough that s manageable and not overly wet but also not crumbly. It s important to knead just until combined to maintain that lovely flakiness.

Are beef empanadas suitable for freezing?
Yes, they freeze beautifully! After preparing them, simply arrange uncooked empanadas on a baking sheet to freeze. Once they re solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and they can last for about 3 months. When you re ready to cook them, fry them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the frying time.

Can I use butter alternatives in the dough?
For a similar texture, you can substitute unsalted butter with margarine or a vegan alternative. However, ensure it s cold for optimal flakiness in your beef empanadas recipe.