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Here’s an SEO-friendly empanada recipe optimized for blog content. It includes search-relevant keywords, an engaging meta description, structured headings, and pro tips for user experience and discoverability. Easy Beef Empanada Recipe (Baked or Fried) Meta Description: Learn how to make authentic beef empanadas with a flaky crust and savory filling. This step-by-step empanada recipe includes both baked and fried versions, plus tips for freezing and meal prep. What Are Empanadas? Empanadas are stuffed pastries popular across Latin America, especially in Argentina, Chile, and Colombia. Typically filled with seasoned meat, cheese, or vegetables, they can be baked or fried, making them a versatile option for meals, snacks, or parties. Why You’ll Love This Empanada Recipe Crispy crust and juicy beef filling Make-ahead & freezer-friendly Can be baked or fried Customizable with different fillings Great for appetizers, lunch, or dinner Ingredients For the Dough: 3 cups all-purpose flour ½ tsp salt ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed 1 egg ¾ cup cold water (add gradually) For the Beef Filling: 1 tbsp olive oil 1 small onion, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 lb ground beef ½ tsp paprika ½ tsp cumin Salt and black pepper to taste 2 tbsp tomato paste ¼ cup green olives, chopped (optional) 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional, Argentine-style) How to Make Empanadas – Step-by-Step Step 1: Make the Dough In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly. Add egg and cold water gradually until a dough forms. Knead briefly, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes. Step 2: Cook the Filling Heat oil in a skillet. Sauté onion and garlic. Add beef and cook until browned. Stir in tomato paste, spices, and optional olives or egg. Cool before filling. Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas Roll dough to ⅛-inch thickness. Cut circles (4–6 inches). Add a spoonful of filling, fold into half-moons, and crimp edges with a fork. Step 4: Bake or Fry To bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush empanadas with egg wash. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden. To fry: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry empanadas until golden and crisp (about 3–4 minutes per side). Drain on paper towels. Serving Suggestions Serve warm with: Chimichurri sauce Spicy salsa or aioli As part of a Latin-inspired appetizer platter Tips for Perfect Empanadas Chill dough before rolling for flakier texture Don’t overfill to prevent leaks Seal edges well—use egg wash for extra hold Add raisins or potatoes for traditional variations Storage & Reheating Fridge: Up to 3 days in an airtight container Freezer: Freeze unbaked empanadas for up to 3 months Reheat: In oven or air fryer for crisp texture FAQs Q: Can I use store-bought empanada dough? A: Yes! Look for Goya or other frozen empanada discs in the freezer aisle. Q: What are other popular fillings? A: Cheese, chicken, spinach & feta, or sweet fillings like guava and cream cheese. Q: Are empanadas healthy? A: Baked empanadas are lower in fat than fried, and fillings can be adjusted to your dietary needs.