Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas Recipe

If you’re searching for something hearty, punchy, and loaded with Latin American flavor, look no further than Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas. Each little pastry is a hand-held pocket of perfectly seasoned ground beef, briny olives, and just enough heat to keep things interesting, all wrapped in a golden, flaky crust. I love serving these as a showstopping centerpiece for gatherings—or just a cozy weeknight treat. The magic lies in vibrant filling, where smoky paprika, cumin, and chili meld with savory beef and soft, hard-boiled egg for a bite that’s deeply satisfying and undeniably fun. Whether you’re new to empanadas or already obsessed, Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas deserve a spot on your must-try list!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s beauty in the simplicity of these ingredients—each one brings a specific flavor, texture, or color that makes Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas irresistible. Handpicking the best you can find helps every mouthful truly sing.

• Olive oil: Adds lushness and helps sauté the aromatics for a rich base.
• Onion: Offers sweet depth and balances the spicier notes in the filling.
• Garlic: Delivers savory complexity—don’t skimp for maximum flavor!
• Ground beef: The juicy, protein-packed heart of each empanada; choose 80/20 for best flavor.
• Smoked paprika: Boosts the filling with sultry, earthy smoke—an unskippable authentic touch.
• Ground cumin: Gives the beef wonderful warmth and a subtle, inviting aroma.
• Chili flakes: Here’s where the fun kicks in; adjust to fit your perfect spice level.
• Ground black pepper: Lends a hint of sharpness that brightens up the beef mixture.
• Salt: Essential for tying all the flavors together—taste as you go for precise seasoning.
• Green olives: Brings pops of tangy, salty flavor that complement the hearty beef.
• Raisins (optional): A classic Argentinian twist, adding subtle bursts of sweetness.
• Hard-boiled eggs: Provide creamy bites and make the filling uniquely South American.
• Tomato paste: Concentrates the umami and gives richness and color.
• Beef broth (or water): Moistens the filling so it stays juicy as it bakes.
• Empanada dough rounds: Store-bought or homemade, these wrap everything up beautifully.
• Egg (for egg wash): A quick brush gives those empanadas their golden shine.

How to Make Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and give it a few minutes to become translucent—you want them soft, not browned. Add minced garlic and stir for just a minute to let that irresistible aroma bloom without burning. This aromatic base sets the stage for those signature rich and bold flavors in Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In goes the ground beef! Break it up gently with your spoon, letting it brown evenly until there’s no more pink. This is when your kitchen will start smelling amazing, so try not to snack on the filling just yet. Make sure the beef is crumbly and cooked through—the flavor payoff is worth your patience!

Step 3: Add the Spices and Tomatoes

Turn down the heat if needed, then add your smoked paprika, cumin, chili flakes, black pepper, and salt right into the beef. Stir it well, then drop in the tomato paste. Cook for a couple of minutes to deepen the flavors and bring all those spices to life. This is the step where the filling takes on its signature color and character for Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth

Pour in the beef broth or water and let the mixture simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes. Most of the liquid should evaporate, leaving a moist but not soupy filling behind. This crucial simmer infuses the meat with all that spice and keeps things juicy inside each empanada.

Step 5: Stir in the Finishing Touches

Remove the skillet from heat and gently stir in your chopped olives, optional raisins, and chopped hard-boiled eggs. The heat from the beef will blend all these elements together, adding briny, creamy, and sweet notes that make each bite complex and special.

Step 6: Fill and Shape the Empanadas

Let the filling cool completely before assembling—this makes wrapping much easier (and keeps the dough from getting soggy!). Lay out your dough rounds, place one to two tablespoons of filling in the center, and fold the dough over to create that classic half-moon. Seal the edges by pressing with a fork or a traditional twist for extra flair—a classic look for Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Gently transfer your empanadas to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each one with a little beaten egg to guarantee a glossy, irresistible finish. Bake in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until beautifully golden and crisp. Let them cool for just a few minutes before digging in—trust me, the anticipation is part of the fun!

How to Serve Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas

Garnishes

The right garnish takes these empanadas over the top. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. For extra heat or tang, try a dollop of chimichurri or a side of your favorite hot sauce. Lemon or lime wedges on the side are lovely for those who enjoy a pop of citrus zing.

Side Dishes

Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas shine alongside simple salads, such as a crisp greens mix with tomatoes, or roasted potatoes for extra heartiness. Rice pilaf, black beans, or even sautéed vegetables round out the meal with texture and substance, keeping everyone at your table happy and well-fed.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, serve your empanadas on a rustic board with mini dipping bowls of various sauces—chimichurri, salsa roja, or creamy aioli. Skewer mini empanadas for cocktail party bites, or arrange them in a spiral for an eye-catching centerpiece. No matter your style, Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas always steal the spotlight!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas store like a dream. Cool them to room temperature, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days. They’ll taste just as fabulous for lunch or a quick snack the next day—no soggy pastry here!

Freezing

To freeze, arrange unbaked empanadas on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, pop them straight into the oven—just add a few extra minutes. You can also freeze baked empanadas; reheat straight from frozen when cravings hit. Both ways preserve the spicy, savory magic of Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas.

Reheating

For best results, reheat empanadas in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 to 12 minutes until heated through and the crust regains its crispness. Avoid microwaves if possible—while convenient, they tend to soften the pastry. If you must use a microwave, do so for a brief 30 seconds and finish in a toaster oven for texture.

FAQs

Can I make Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas with a different meat?

Absolutely! Ground chicken, turkey, or even lamb work wonderfully. You might need to adjust seasonings; just keep the ratios and spices, and swap in your favorite protein for a twist on the original.

What dough works best for empanadas?

Classic empanada dough is available in most Latin markets, but pie crust or puff pastry will work in a pinch. If you’re gluten-free, seek out or make a GF pastry—your Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas will still be delicious and flaky.

Is there a vegetarian way to prepare these?

Definitely! Substitute the ground beef for lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Keep the same spices and add in the olives, eggs (or tofu for a vegan option), and enjoy a delicious vegetarian spin on this classic.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes, customize the chili flakes to your preference. For extra heat, toss in diced jalapeño, a splash of hot sauce, or even chopped chipotle peppers. For a milder version, simply reduce (or omit) the chili flakes.

What dipping sauces pair well with Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas?

Chimichurri is a classic, but you can also go for salsa verde, roasted red pepper aioli, or even a simple garlicky yogurt sauce. The spicy, tangy, and creamy profiles all play beautifully with the rich filling and flaky crust.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried making empanadas at home, Spicy Argentinian Beef Empanadas are the perfect place to start. These bold, juicy, golden pastries win over everyone who tastes them, and the process is amazingly satisfying. I hope you’ll add them to your recipe rotation and share the joy (and the spice!) with your favorite people. Buen provecho!

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