Argentinian Beef Empanadas
These savory empanadas feature a flavorful ground beef filling encased in a tender, flaky dough. Perfect as an appetizer or a light meal, they are a beloved classic in Argentinian cuisine.
An original recipe by Forkin
- Total time
- 1 hr 20 min
- Serves
- 4
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Per serving
- 835 kcal
Allergen information: may contain eggs, gluten, and milk. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.
Mise en place
Ingredients
Converted for display; the recipe amounts stay equivalent.
dough
- 300 gall-purpose flour
- 100 gunsalted butter, cold, cubed
- 1 pcsegg, beaten
- 60 mlcold water
- 0.5 tspsalt
filling
- 15 mlolive oil
- 1 pcsyellow onion, finely chopped
- 400 gground beef, lean
- 1 tsppaprika, smoked
- 0.5 tspcumin, ground
- 0.5 tsporegano, dried
- 0.75 tspsalt
- 0.25 tspblack pepper, freshly ground
- 2 pcshard-boiled egg, chopped
- 30 ggreen olive, pitted, sliced
egg wash
- 1 pcsegg yolk
- 15 mlmilk
Equipment
rolling pin · round cutter · fork · large bowl · baking sheet · parchment paper · skillet · small bowl · whisk · pastry blender
The method
Step by step
- 1
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt for the dough.
About 1 min
- 2
Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture.
About 1 min
- 3
Using your fingertips or a pastry blender, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
About 3 min
Cook’s note: Work quickly to prevent the butter from melting too much.
- 4
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and cold water.
About 1 min
- 5
Gradually add the liquid mixture to the flour and butter, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
About 2 min
Cook’s note: Do not overmix; the dough should just come together.
- 6
Gather the dough into a ball, flatten slightly, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Cook’s note: Chilling the dough makes it easier to roll.
- 7
While the dough chills, prepare the filling. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
About 2 min
- 8
Add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
About 7 min
- 9
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
About 8 min
Cook’s note: Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- 10
Stir in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
About 1 min
- 11
Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to become fragrant.
About 3 min
- 12
Remove the skillet from the heat and let the filling cool slightly.
About 5 min
- 13
Once cooled, stir in the chopped hard-boiled eggs and sliced green olives.
About 1 min
- 14
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
About 10 min
- 15
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 3mm (1/8 inch) thickness.
About 3 min
- 16
Using a 10-12cm (4-5 inch) round cutter, cut out circles from the dough.
About 2 min
Cook’s note: Re-roll scraps as needed to use all the dough.
- 17
Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle.
About 3 min
Cook’s note: Don't overfill, or they will be hard to seal.
- 18
Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, then moisten the edges with water and crimp them shut with a fork or by hand (repulgue method).
About 5 min
Cook’s note: Ensure the edges are well-sealed to prevent the filling from leaking.
- 19
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk for the egg wash.
About 1 min
- 20
Arrange the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with the egg wash.
About 2 min
Cook’s note: The egg wash gives them a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- 21
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and puffed.
About 25 min
- 22
Let cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
About 5 min
Per serving
Nutrition
- Calories
- 835.2kcal
- Protein
- 31.1g
- Carbs
- 61.9g
- Fat
- 51.1g
- Fibre
- 3.1g
- Sugar
- 2.5g
Estimated from the recipe’s ingredient quantities. Values can vary with brands and substitutions.
Keep it good
Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
More recipes
All recipesmain course
Pollo A La Brasa
This is a home-friendly version of the famous Peruvian roasted chicken, known for its incredibly flavorful marinade and crispy, dark skin. A blend of spices, chili paste, and vinegar creates a smoky, tangy crust while the meat stays juicy inside. It's a fantastic centerpiece for a meal, often served with french fries and a creamy dipping sauce.
1 hr 45 minside dish
Himbasha (Ethiopian Flatbread)
Experience the warm, inviting flavors of Ethiopia with this traditional Himbasha flatbread. Subtly spiced with cardamom and adorned with nigella and sesame seeds, this soft, slightly chewy bread features a beautiful scored pattern, making it a delightful centerpiece for any meal or gathering.
2 hr 45 min 326 kcalside dish
Parippu Curry
This comforting Sri Lankan lentil curry is a staple, made with red lentils cooked until tender in a fragrant coconut milk broth. It's mildly spiced and incredibly creamy, perfect as a side dish with rice or roti. This recipe offers a taste of authentic island flavors.
35 min 552 kcaldessert
Yemas de Santa Teresa
These traditional Spanish confections are delicate, small sweets made primarily from egg yolks and sugar. They have a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a bright, citrusy flavor. Perfect for a sweet treat or after-dinner dessert.
1 hr 35 min 373 kcalmain course
Pasta Pomodoro
This classic Italian pasta dish features a simple, vibrant tomato sauce made with ripe tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil. It's a quick and satisfying meal that highlights the natural sweetness of fresh ingredients. This version is entirely plant-based, perfect for a light and flavorful dinner.
40 min 457 kcaldessert
Konafa
This traditional Egyptian dessert features shredded phyllo dough, known as konafa pastry, layered with a creamy cheese filling. It's baked to a golden crisp and then drenched in a fragrant, sweet syrup. A delightful treat for any occasion.
1 hr 30 min 1,102 kcallunch
Marinated Baked Tofu
This recipe features firm tofu baked to a golden crisp after soaking in a savory and slightly sweet marinade. It's a versatile protein that can be added to salads, sandwiches, or served as a main course with your favorite sides.
1 hr 10 min 152 kcal