Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas Recipe
If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a crispy, golden pocket bursting with rich, spicy, savory flavors, this Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas Recipe is about to become your new obsession. These empanadas combine tender ground beef infused with bold spices, a touch of sweetness from raisins, and a satisfying texture contrast thanks to olives and chopped hard-boiled eggs. Baked to perfection, they offer a stunning balance of heat and tradition that will transport your taste buds straight to a vibrant Argentinian kitchen. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a main dish, these empanadas are the perfect way to enjoy a classic Latin American favorite with a fiery twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in how simple, yet thoughtfully chosen each ingredient is. Every element plays an important role, whether it’s the aromatic spices that build the foundation, the juicy ground beef providing heartiness, or the added touches like olives and raisins that bring authentic Argentinian flair and texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: The base for sautéing that lends a subtle richness without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 small onion finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens and caramelizes.
- 2 garlic cloves minced: For that aromatic punch that wakes up the palate.
- 1 pound ground beef: The protein star that absorbs spices and creates a hearty filling.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces smoky warmth—key to that classic Argentinian flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Earthy and slightly nutty, it rounds out the spice profile beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste): The essential heat factor that wakes up these empanadas without overwhelming.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Herbal notes that evoke traditional Latin American seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a gentle bite and vibrancy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances every other ingredient’s flavor.
- 1/4 cup green olives chopped: Briny bursts that contrast and complement the rich meat filling.
- 1/4 cup raisins: Sweet jewels that add a playful twist in taste and texture.
- 2 hard-boiled eggs chopped: Traditional in Argentinian empanadas, providing creamy texture and richness.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Gives body and a slight tang to the beef mixture.
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water: Keeps the filling moist and tender.
- 12 empanada dough discs (store-bought or homemade): The perfect handheld vessel that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
- 1 egg beaten for egg wash: Ensures a gorgeous golden, shiny crust after baking.
How to Make Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Cook the Beef
Start by heating olive oil over medium heat in a skillet. Toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they become soft and translucent. This step releases the sweet, savory flavors that form the base of your filling. Then add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. Let it cook until all the pink has disappeared—this ensures a rich, hearty texture.
Step 2: Add Spices and Flavor Enhancers
Once your beef is browned, gently stir in smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili flakes, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. These spices don’t just add heat, but layers of smoky, earthy, and herbal notes that are truly iconic to this Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas Recipe. Mix in tomato paste next, integrating it thoroughly to give a slight tang and depth.
Step 3: Incorporate Olives, Raisins, and Broth
Next, stir in the chopped green olives and raisins, which bring a delightful salty-sweet contrast to every bite. Pour in the beef broth or water to keep the filling moist and let everything simmer gently for about five minutes. The filling should thicken beautifully during this time, offering a perfectly balanced texture.
Step 4: Mix in the Hard-Boiled Eggs and Cool
Remove the skillet from heat and fold in chopped hard-boiled eggs. These little pieces add creaminess and traditional flair that elevate the filling to the next level. Allow the mixture to cool completely—this step is key to making sure your empanadas seal properly and don’t get soggy.
Step 5: Assemble the Empanadas
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay out your empanada dough discs on a clean surface. Spoon roughly 2 tablespoons of filling into the center of each disc. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon and press the edges firmly to seal, either using a fork or crimping by hand. This helps keep all that delicious filling safely inside while baking.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the folded empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops generously with beaten egg to achieve that stunning golden hue. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is crisp and beautifully browned. When they come out of the oven warm and fragrant, you’re ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your empanadas with fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro or parsley for a bright herbal finish. A dollop of tangy chimichurri sauce on the side is also outstanding—the fresh acidity balances the rich, spicy beef perfectly.
Side Dishes
Serve these empanadas alongside simple yet complementary sides such as a crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or even a classic Argentinian accompaniment like a fresh tomato and onion salad. These pairings let your empanadas shine while rounding out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, present your empanadas as part of a tapas-style spread with other classic Latin American snacks. Arrange them on a wooden board with bowls of dipping sauces, pickled vegetables, and colorful salsas. They’re great finger food for parties or casual get-togethers!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, leftover empanadas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When stored properly, they maintain their flavor and texture quite well for quick, satisfying meals.
Freezing
You can freeze empanadas either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble and seal them tightly, then freeze on a tray before transferring to a container or bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This is perfect for meal planning!
Reheating
To reheat, pop your empanadas in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the crust soggy and less appealing.
FAQs
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making the filling a day ahead is actually recommended as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it refrigerated and let it come to room temperature before assembling.
What type of empanada dough should I use?
You can use store-bought dough discs for convenience or make your own if you prefer a homemade touch. Both work wonderfully—as long as the dough is sturdy enough to hold the filling during baking.
How spicy are these empanadas?
The heat level is moderate thanks to the chili flakes, but you can easily adjust it. Add less chili for a milder taste or a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick.
Can I substitute beef with another protein?
Yes, ground chicken, turkey, or even a mix of mushrooms can be used as alternatives. Just be mindful of cooking times and seasoning adjustments.
Are these empanadas dairy-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally dairy-free, making it accessible for those avoiding dairy products.
Final Thoughts
Making this Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas Recipe is like inviting a celebration of bold, vibrant flavors right into your home kitchen. Each bite delivers a perfect mix of heat, savory goodness, and delightful texture that will make these empanadas your new go-to for entertaining or comforting dinner nights. Give it a try—you’ll quickly see why they’re beloved across Argentina and beyond!
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Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 empanadas 1x
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
These Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas combine a flavorful blend of ground beef, aromatic spices, green olives, raisins, and hard-boiled eggs wrapped in tender dough and baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a main course, they offer a satisfying mix of savory and spicy flavors with a hint of sweetness, embodying traditional Argentinian cuisine.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup green olives, chopped
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
Dough and Topping
- 12 empanada dough discs (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes, building the flavor base for the filling.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon to ensure even cooking and texture.
- Add Spices and Mix-ins: Stir in smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili flakes, oregano, salt, and ground black pepper. Incorporate tomato paste, chopped green olives, raisins, and beef broth, then cook for another 5 minutes until the mixture thickens and flavors meld.
- Finish Filling: Remove the skillet from heat and gently stir in the chopped hard-boiled eggs. Let the filling cool completely to ensure easy handling and prevent dough from becoming soggy.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) in preparation for baking the empanadas.
- Assemble Empanadas: Lay out empanada dough discs on a flat surface. Place about 2 tablespoons of the cooled beef filling in the center of each disc. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and seal the edges securely by pressing with a fork or crimping for a decorative finish.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the empanadas with beaten egg to achieve a golden, shiny crust when baked.
- Bake: Arrange the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them evenly. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm as a delicious main course or appetizer, enjoying the spicy and rich flavors.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped fresh chili to the beef filling.
- These empanadas can be frozen before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the bake time when cooking from frozen.
- Ensure the filling is completely cooled before assembling empanadas to prevent dough from getting soggy.
- Use beaten egg wash to give empanadas a beautiful golden-brown finish.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Argentinian
