Empanadas

Discover this authentic Argentinean Empanadas recipe — a satisfying weeknight dish that's an impressive dish that showcases your cooking skills. Made with all purpose flour, butter, water and 9 more fresh ingredients, this recipe guides you through 6 detailed steps to create a truly memorable meal. Ready in about 40 minutes from start to finish. Whether you're cooking for family, friends, or a special occasion, this argentinean classic is sure to impress.

Hard
Updated March 14, 2026

15

Prep Time (min)

30

Cook Time (min)

4

servings

500

Calories/serving

Hard

Difficulty

Empanadas

Ingredients

Servings:
4
  • 500 g All purpose flour
  • 200 g Butter
  • 120 ml Water
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 500 g Ground Beef
  • 2 chopped Onion
  • 4 Chopped Egg
  • 100 g Green Olives
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • To taste Salt
  • To taste Pepper

Instructions

6 steps · ~52 minutes total

  1. Step 1

    Make the Dough: Mix flour and salt in a large bowl. Add butter, using your fingers to blend into a crumbly texture. Gradually add water, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap and chill for 30 minutes.

    3 minutes
    Taste as you go and adjust seasoning gradually — you can always add more but can't take it away.
  2. Step 2

    Prepare the Filling: Cook onions in a pan until translucent. Add ground beef, cooking until browned. Stir in spices, then remove from heat. Once cooled, mix in eggs and olives.

    8 minutes
    Don't overcrowd the pan — cook in batches for a better sear.
  3. Step 3

    Assemble: Roll out the dough and cut into circles. Place a spoonful of filling in each, fold over, and seal the edges.

    5 minutes
    Keep your fingers curled under (claw grip) for safety when cutting.
  4. Step 4

    Cook: Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden.

    25 minutes
    Always preheat your oven fully before baking for even cooking.
  5. Step 5

    For a flakier crust, incorporate a tablespoon of vinegar into the dough mixture. This helps prevent gluten formation.

    3 minutes
    The dough is ready when it springs back slightly when poked.
  6. Step 6

    Seal the edges of the empanadas with a fork to ensure they do not open during baking or frying.

    8 minutes
    Test the oil temperature with a small piece of food — it should sizzle immediately.

💡 Tips & Tricks

This Argentinian recipe for Empanadas is best served fresh. Adjust seasoning to your taste.

🔄 Variations

• Protein swap: Try substituting the main protein with chicken, tofu, or shrimp for a different take on this dish. • Spice level: Adjust the heat to your preference — add more chili for extra kick, or reduce it for a milder version. • Vegetarian: Replace meat with mushrooms, chickpeas, or your favorite plant-based protein. • Fusion twist: Combine elements of Argentinean cuisine with your local favorites for a creative fusion dish.

Storage & Reheating

❄️

Refrigerator

Up to 3 days in an airtight container

🧊

Freezer

Up to 2 months — thaw overnight in fridge

🔥

Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

What to Serve With

Complete your argentinean meal with these perfect pairings:

🍽️Steamed rice or crusty bread
🍽️A fresh green salad
🍽️Seasonal roasted vegetables

About This Dish

Empanadas is a beloved dish from Argentinean cuisine, originating in Argentina. With a total preparation time of about 45 minutes, it makes for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Argentinean cuisine offers a rich tapestry of flavors and cooking traditions that reflect the culture and history of the region. This dish is a wonderful example of its distinctive culinary heritage.

This recipe is rated hard difficulty and uses 12 ingredients. Experienced cooks will appreciate the technique involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Argentinean empanadas are often filled with ground beef, though you can also use chicken, pork, or even vegetarian options like spinach and cheese.

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Nutrition Facts

4 serving(s) per recipe

Serving size1 serving
Calories500kcal
Total Fat23g
Sodium680mg
Total Carbohydrates55g
Dietary Fiber3g
Protein60g

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Recipe Details

CategoryDinner
CountryArgentina