BAKED MEAT EMPANADAS

2. Prepare the Meat Filling:

• While the dough is resting, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper (if using) and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Add the ground beef (or beef and pork mixture) to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
• Stir in the cumin, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the chopped olives, raisins or potatoes (if using), and beef or chicken broth. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the mixture is thickened and the flavors have melded together.
• Remove the filling from heat and let it cool to room temperature before using it to fill the empanadas.

3. Assemble the Empanadas:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• On a lightly floured surface, roll out the empanada dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter) or a bowl to cut out circles of dough.
• Place a spoonful of the cooled meat filling in the center of each dough circle, being careful not to overfill.
• Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to press the edges together and seal the empanada. You can also crimp the edges with your fingers for a decorative touch.
• Place the sealed empanadas onto the prepared baking sheet.

4. Bake the Empanadas:

• Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg to give them a golden, shiny finish as they bake.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the empanadas are golden brown and crisp on the outside.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

• Once baked, remove the empanadas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm as an appetizer, snack, or part of a main meal. They are also great for packing in lunchboxes or serving at parties!

Tips for Perfect Baked Meat Empanadas:

1. Customize the Filling:
   • Feel free to adjust the meat mixture based on your preferences. Ground chicken, turkey, or even a vegetarian filling (such as beans, vegetables, or cheese) works great in empanadas. You can also add spices like oregano, cinnamon, or a dash of hot sauce to add more flavor complexity.
2. Add Texture and Sweetness:
   • The addition of raisins or diced potatoes in the filling gives the empanadas a beautiful texture contrast and a touch of sweetness that complements the savory meat. However, this step is optional if you prefer a more straightforward meat filling.
3. Make Ahead:
   • You can prepare the empanadas ahead of time by assembling them and freezing them before baking. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, simply brush with egg wash and bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for an extra 5-10 minutes.
4. Serve with Dips:
   • Baked meat empanadas pair beautifully with a variety of sauces and dips. Try serving them with a tangy salsa, creamy guacamole, or a spicy chili sauce for extra flavor.
5. Perfectly Golden Crust:
   • The egg wash gives the empanadas a beautiful golden color and a slight shine. Be sure to brush the dough generously to achieve that perfect look and texture.

Why You’ll Love Baked Meat Empanadas:

These Baked Meat Empanadas are the perfect combination of flaky, buttery pastry and savory filling. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying meal or a delicious snack, these empanadas deliver on flavor, texture, and satisfaction. The dough is light and crispy, and the flavorful meat filling is enhanced with aromatic spices, making each bite a delicious experience.

Plus, baking instead of frying means these empanadas are a lighter option without compromising on taste or texture. They’re easy to make, and you can customize the filling to suit your tastes, making them a versatile recipe that will become a family favorite.

So, whether you’re hosting a party, packing lunch, or simply craving something comforting, these Baked Meat Empanadas will surely hit the spot. They’re the perfect handheld treat that’s both satisfying and flavorful, making them a must-try in your recipe collection!