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Ground Beef Empanadas with Chimichurri Sauce

Elina James
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Appetizers
Cuisine American
Servings 10 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Empanadas
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup chopped green olives (optional)
  • 1 package store-bought empanada dough or puff pastry sheets
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • For the Chimichurri Sauce
  • 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)
  • 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Beef Filling : Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Sauté onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked. Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Remove from heat, mix in chopped parsley and olives. Let the mixture cool slightly.
  • Prepare Chimichurri Sauce : In a bowl, combine parsley, cilantro (if using), garlic, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  • Assemble the Empanadas : Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out empanada dough or puff pastry and cut into circles (about 4–5 inches in diameter). Place a tablespoon of beef filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges with a fork to seal. Brush the tops with beaten egg.
  • Bake the Empanadas : Place empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
  • Serve : Serve warm with chimichurri sauce on the side for dipping.