Empanadas are enjoyed throughout Latin America, Spain, and the Caribbean, with fillings and preparation varying by region. These beef empanadas make a great appetizer or main dish.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 1 small red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp. ground cumin
  • 1 tsp. paprika
  • ½ tsp. dried oregano
  • ½ cup tomato sauce
  • ¼ cup green olives, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 package refrigerated or frozen empanada dough discs
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 tbsp. olive oil

Directions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until softened.
  2. Add garlic and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned.
  3. Stir in cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  4. Add tomato sauce and olives. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the mixture thickens.
  5. Let the filling cool slightly.
  6. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough disc. Fold the dough over and press the edges together with a fork.
  7. Brush each empanada with beaten egg.
  8. Bake at 400°F for approximately 20–25 minutes, until golden brown.
  9. Serve warm with your favorite salsa or dipping sauce.