Discover how to make delicious beef empanadas with this easy-to-follow recipe using Goya Discos pastry rounds and a savory ground beef filling. These flaky, deep-fried empanadas are perfect as appetizers, snacks, or even a hearty main dish.
Prep Time: 45 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hr 35 mins
Servings: 4
Yield: 20 empanadas
Why This Empanada Recipe Is a Must-Try
Empanadas are a versatile and delicious dish, ideal for any occasion. This recipe combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, onions, olives, and spices, all wrapped in golden, crispy empanada dough. Whether you’re looking for an appetizer, snack, or main course, these homemade beef turnovers will satisfy any craving.
Ingredients for Beef Empanadas
- 1 tablespoon Goya Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- ½ pound ground beef
- ½ medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup Goya Tomato Sauce
- 6 Goya Spanish Olives Stuffed with Minced Pimientos, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons Goya Sofrito
- 1 packet Sazon Goya with Coriander and Annatto
- 1 teaspoon Goya Minced Garlic
- ½ teaspoon Goya Dried Oregano
- Goya Ground Black Pepper, to taste
- 1 (14 oz) package Goya Discos empanada discs, thawed
- 1 quart Goya Corn Oil, for frying
Directions to Make Perfect Beef Empanadas
Step 1:
Gather all the ingredients to prepare your empanadas.
Step 2:
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring until it browns and becomes crumbly (about 10 minutes). Add the chopped onions and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
Step 3:
Stir in the tomato sauce, sliced olives, sofrito, sazón, garlic, oregano, and black pepper. Lower the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and thicken.
Step 4:
On a lightly floured surface, roll each empanada disk to about ½ inch larger in diameter. Place 1 tablespoon of the beef mixture into the center of each disk. Moisten the edges of the dough with water, fold the disk in half over the filling to form a half-moon shape, and pinch the edges to seal. You can also use a fork to crimp the edges for a tighter seal.
Step 5:
In a deep fryer or large saucepan, heat 2 ½ inches of corn oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the empanadas in batches, flipping once, until they are golden brown and crispy, about 4 to 6 minutes.
Step 6:
Remove the empanadas from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot and enjoy!
Expert Tips for Crispy Empanadas
Perfect Frying Tip:
For consistently crispy empanadas, ensure your oil is at the right temperature. If you don’t have a deep-fry thermometer, use this trick: place the handle of a wooden spoon or chopstick into the oil. If steady bubbles form around it, the oil is ready. If the bubbles are too rapid or too slow, adjust the heat accordingly.
Enjoy Authentic, Homemade Empanadas
These beef empanadas, with their flaky crust and savory filling, are perfect for family meals, parties, or special occasions. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, or enjoy them as they are! Whether served as appetizers or the main dish, these empanadas are a crowd-pleaser every time.