If you’re craving a dish that packs a punch and effortlessly brings people together, Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas are for you. Imagine golden pastry pockets bursting with a delectable beef filling—rich in smoky spices, briny olives, and creamy eggs. This vibrant South American classic is equal parts comfort food and crowd-pleaser, perfect for making ahead or serving warm from the oven. Whether you’re hosting a party or planning a cozy weeknight dinner, these empanadas are an irresistibly flavorful treat you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas starts with a handful of straightforward ingredients that each play a starring role. Together, they create layers of flavor, a golden crisp crust, and vibrant pops of color and texture in every bite.
- Olive oil: Adds richness to the filling and helps the onions become silky soft right from the start.
- Onion (finely chopped): Provides a sweet, aromatic foundation that infuses the meat with fantastic flavor.
- Garlic (minced): For a subtle kick and the irresistible aroma that defines classic Argentinian fillings.
- Ground beef: The juicy, hearty star of the empanada, lending richness and satisfying protein to the dish.
- Smoked paprika: Offers an earthy depth and a whisper of smokiness that sets these empanadas apart.
- Ground cumin: Adds warmth and a gently nutty, complex background flair.
- Chili flakes: Bring adjustable heat—add more for a bolder bite, or dial it back for milder palates.
- Dried oregano: For a herbaceous, slightly peppery note that feels unmistakably South American.
- Salt & black pepper: Essential for seasoning, sharpening the beef’s flavor and balancing out the filling.
- Tomato paste: Lends a rich, slightly tangy base and holds the filling together beautifully.
- Green olives (chopped): Add a briny, tangy pop that brightens up each bite.
- Hard-boiled eggs (chopped): For a creamy, traditional touch that makes these empanadas luxuriously savory.
- Fresh parsley (chopped): Sprinkled in at the end for freshness and a lovely burst of color.
- Empanada dough discs: Flaky, ready-made rounds that save time and deliver that authentic bakery-style finish.
- Egg (beaten, for egg wash): Brushed on top for that irresistible golden sheen when baked.
How to Make Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start your filling by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the pieces turn soft and translucent. The aroma that fills your kitchen at this step is a promise of the deeply savory flavors to come.
Step 2: Garlic and Beef Browning
Add the minced garlic and stir for about a minute, just until fragrant. Then crumble in your ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. The aim is to get a nice, even browning on the beef, which deepens its flavor and creates those irresistible little bits throughout the filling.
Step 3: Spice It Up
Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili flakes, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the beef with all that spice, letting the mixture toast together for a minute to infuse every bite with signature warmth and just the right amount of heat.
Step 4: Tomato Paste Transformation
Add the tomato paste and work it into the beef mixture. Give it another two minutes on the heat—this helps the tomato flavors deepen and binds your filling, so it comes together just right inside the pastry.
Step 5: Flavor Finishers Off Heat
Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped green olives, hard-boiled eggs, and fresh parsley. These finishing touches bring brightness, creaminess, and a pop of herbiness that sets Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas apart from the rest. Let the filling cool slightly before moving on.
Step 6: Fill and Seal
Lay out your empanada dough discs. Add a generous spoonful of the cooled filling to the center of each one. Fold in half, pressing the edges to seal, then crimp with a fork for that classic pleated look. Not only does this make them beautiful, but it keeps every bit of that juicy filling tucked safely inside.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place your assembled empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each with beaten egg—this simple step will give the finished pastries that envy-inducing golden sheen. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, or until the crust is crisp and deeply colored. Let them cool slightly before serving (if you can wait!).
How to Serve Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas
Garnishes
While Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas are already bursting with flavor, the right garnish can take them over the top. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds freshness and color, while a side of vibrant chimichurri sauce offers tang, herbiness, and a green contrast that’s traditional and simply irresistible.
Side Dishes
These empanadas are endlessly versatile on the table. For a casual meal, pair them with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. If you’re aiming for authenticity, serve alongside a tomato and onion salad, or a bowl of tangy marinated carrots. And never underestimate the joy of serving them with extra chimichurri or a zesty salsa for dipping!
Creative Ways to Present
Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas make any gathering feel special when artfully arranged on a wooden board, nestled with lime wedges and fresh herbs. For parties, consider mini empanadas as appetizers, or stack them in a warm basket lined with a colorful towel for passing around the table. Individual dipping bowls let everyone customize their experience and add a playful, interactive touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you (miraculously) have leftovers, store cooled Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to three days—making a perfect grab-and-go snack or quick lunch the next day.
Freezing
One of the best things about this recipe is how well it freezes. Prepare and assemble the empanadas up to the baking step, then lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to two months, ready to bake straight from the freezer whenever cravings strike.
Reheating
For the crispiest experience, reheat empanadas in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes (15 if frozen). Skip the microwave—while convenient, it tends to soften the crust. If reheating from frozen, just add a few extra minutes until they’re hot and crisp all the way through.
FAQs
Can I make the filling in advance?
Absolutely! The beef filling for Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas can be made up to two days ahead and refrigerated. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld even more deeply, resulting in an even tastier empanada.
Can I use store-bought pie dough instead of empanada discs?
Yes, you can substitute store-bought pie crust if empanada dough isn’t available—just roll it out a bit thinner and cut into circles. The texture will be slightly different, but the results are still delicious.
How can I make these vegetarian?
Try swapping the ground beef for finely chopped mushrooms, cooked lentils, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Keep the same seasonings and additions for that authentic empanada flavor profile.
What can I serve with Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas for a party?
For parties, offer a trio of dipping sauces (chimichurri, spicy garlic aioli, and a tangy tomato salsa) and some easy-to-eat sides like roasted potatoes, stuffed peppers, or a crunchy cabbage slaw for contrast and color.
Can I air fry these instead of baking?
Yes! Brush assembled empanadas with egg wash and air fry at 370°F for 12–15 minutes, turning once, until golden and crisp. The air fryer delivers a lovely crust in less time, making it a great alternative to the oven.
Final Thoughts
I can’t encourage you enough to give Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas a try. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of heat, savoriness, and comfort—plus, they’re just plain fun to make and share. Whether you stick to tradition or mix up the fillings, these empanadas are bound to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Go ahead, invite some friends and enjoy the magic of homemade empanadas!
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Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 empanadas 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas are a delicious and savory treat filled with seasoned ground beef, olives, and hard-boiled eggs, all wrapped in a flaky empanada dough. Perfect for parties or as a flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to heat preference)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ cup green olives, chopped
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Other:
- 1 package empanada dough discs (about 12)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté onion until soft, then add garlic.
- Cook beef: Add ground beef, cook until browned, then add spices and tomato paste.
- Add filling ingredients: Stir in olives, eggs, and parsley; let cool.
- Fill empanadas: Place filling on dough, fold, seal edges, and crimp with a fork.
- Bake: Brush with egg wash, bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Empanadas can be made ahead and frozen before baking.
- Adjust spice level by reducing or increasing chili flakes.
- Serve with chimichurri sauce for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Argentinian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 empanada
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
