The Ultimate Beef Sourdough Empanadas Recipe
There’s something magical about biting into a golden, crispy empanada filled with juicy, savory beef wrapped in a flaky sourdough crust. If you’ve never tried this flavor-packed snack, you’re in for a treat! In this article, we’ll walk you through a beef-sourdough-empanadas-recipe that blends comfort food with artisanal flair. You’ll learn how to make a sourdough empanada dough, whip up a mouthwatering beef filling, and shape each pocket into hand-held perfection. We’ll also share expert tips, serving suggestions, and answers to popular questions people ask about empanadas.
PrintEasy Beef Sourdough Empanadas Recipe – Crispy, Tangy, and Flavor-Packed
Make this Beef Sourdough Empanadas Recipe with flaky sourdough crust, juicy filling & easy steps. Baked, flavorful, and freezer-friendly too!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 empanadas
- Category: Dinner, Snack
- Cuisine: Latin-American, Fusion
Ingredients
#### For the Sourdough Crust:
– 1 cup *sourdough discard* (unfed)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– ½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp salt
– 1–2 tbsp ice water (as needed)
#### For the Beef Filling:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– ½ tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Optional: ½ cup shredded cheddar or queso fresco, ¼ cup chopped olives
Instructions
**Make the Dough:**
In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Add sourdough discard and egg. Mix, adding ice water as needed until dough forms. Wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
2. **Cook the Filling:**
Heat a skillet over medium. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in onions, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook 5–7 more minutes. Let cool.
3. **Assemble Empanadas:**
Roll out dough on floured surface. Cut into 5-inch rounds. Place 1–2 tablespoons of filling in center. Fold, press edges, and crimp with fork.
4. **Bake:**
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place empanadas on parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with egg wash. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
Use unfed sourdough discard for a tangy bite.
– Don’t overfill or dough may tear.
– You can also fry these if preferred.
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Why Beef Sourdough Empanadas Are a Must-Try
What Makes This Empanada Recipe Special?
Empanadas have long been beloved across cultures—from Latin America to the Philippines. But this beef-sourdough-empanadas-recipe brings a twist: a tangy, buttery crust made from sourdough discard. It’s not only a fantastic way to use leftovers from your starter but also adds layers of flavor and flakiness you just can’t get with plain dough.
These empanadas are more than just snacks—they’re mini meals. This beef sourdough empanadas recipe layers bold flavor in every bite, thanks to its savory beef filling rich with cumin and paprika. And when paired with the crisp, airy crust? Oh, it’s game over.
Sourdough Crust vs. Traditional Dough: The Flavor Advantage
What sets this sourdough empanada dough apart is the fermentation. That slight tang gives the crust a unique depth that contrasts beautifully with the bold, seasoned meat inside. Unlike traditional pastry, which can sometimes be one-note, the sourdough crust elevates every bite.
Plus, it crisps up like a dream when baked—no need for frying if you’re watching your oil intake. That said, you’ve got options. Whether you go baked or fried, this beef-sourdough-empanadas-recipe delivers taste, texture, and total satisfaction..
Ingredients for the Beef Sourdough Empanadas Recipe
Essential Ingredients for the Sourdough Crust
When it comes to the crust, the sourdough makes all the difference. This beef-sourdough-empanadas-recipe calls for sourdough discard, which adds a subtle tang and helps the dough bake into a beautifully crisp, golden shell. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup sourdough discard
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cold butter, diced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 egg
- Ice water, as needed
The trick? Work fast and keep everything cold. This step is critical to mastering a perfect beef sourdough empanadas recipe with a crust that bakes into flaky perfection.
Tip: For more crispy crust ideas, check out the baked feta pasta dish—it pairs wonderfully with similar dough techniques.
Beef-Sourdough-Empanadas-Recipe: Filling Ingredients
This filling is where the heart of the flavor lives. Ground beef is cooked low and slow with aromatic ingredients that’ll make your kitchen smell like a dream. For this recipe:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped olives, shredded cheese, diced red pepper
You can even draw seasoning ideas from this ground beef recipe guide if you want to spice things up or keep it healthier.
Optional Add-Ins: Cheese, Olives, and Vegetables
Want to make your beef-sourdough-empanadas-recipe stand out? Add a handful of shredded cheddar, crumbled queso fresco, or even sweet corn for extra flavor and texture. Chopped green olives give a salty twist that cuts through the richness beautifully.
How to Make the Beef Sourdough Empanadas Recipe
Preparing the Sourdough Crust Dough
Let’s roll! Literally. First, combine your sourdough discard, flour, and salt in a large bowl. Add cold butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend it in until it looks like coarse crumbs. Beat the egg and mix it in. Add ice water a tablespoon at a time until a soft dough forms.
Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes. The colder the dough, the flakier the crust.
Cooking the Beef Filling for Maximum Flavor
While the dough chills, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Toss in onions, garlic, and spices, then simmer for 5–10 minutes. You want everything cooked through but not dry.
Don’t forget: let the filling cool before assembling! Hot filling can tear the dough and ruin the structure of your beef sourdough empanadas recipe.
Assembling and Shaping the Empanadas Like a Pro
Roll out the dough and cut into 5-inch circles. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of beef filling into the center, fold over, and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp for that classic empanada look.
Baking vs. Frying: Which Method Works Best for Sourdough Dough?
You can totally fry these for extra crunch, but baking works wonderfully too—especially with sourdough empanadas. Brush with egg wash and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
Want a smoky version? Take inspiration from smoked flank steak and toss your empanadas on a grill with a smoker box.
Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips
Serving Ideas: Dipping Sauces, Side Dishes, and Garnishes
Once your beef-sourdough-empanadas are golden and crisp, it’s time to serve them up right! These hand pies pair beautifully with a side of chimichurri, salsa verde, or even garlic aioli. If you’re feeling extra, serve with a tangy tomato basil bisque or a crisp slaw to cut through the richness.
For more delicious ideas to round out your table, check out our chicken pot pie casserole—it’s another comfort classic done right.
How to Store and Reheat for Maximum Freshness
Leftovers? Lucky you. These empanadas store well, making the beef sourdough empanadas recipe ideal for meal prep and next-day cravings. For longer storage, freeze them individually on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When reheating, avoid the microwave if possible—it can make the crust soggy. Instead, reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes to restore that crispy bite.
Mistakes to Avoid in a Beef Sourdough Empanadas Recipe
Avoid These Mistakes When Making Beef-Sourdough-Empanadas-Recipe
Even a great beef-sourdough-empanadas-recipe can go south if you miss a few key steps. First off, don’t skip chilling the dough—it needs time to firm up for that flaky texture. Secondly, avoid overfilling, or you’ll risk messy leaks. Finally, seal the edges well. A fork crimp or a light brush of egg white helps lock everything in.
For more comforting savory dishes, check out our cottage pie recipe guide, another winner when it comes to hearty family meals.
FAQs About Beef Sourdough Empanadas
What is the secret to a good empanada?
The secret lies in balance—a flaky crust, a juicy filling, and proper seasoning. In this beef-sourdough-empanadas-recipe, using sourdough discard adds a depth of flavor that standard dough just can’t match. Also, chilling the dough before rolling ensures it holds shape while baking.
Is it better to bake or fry empanadas?
Both methods work, but baking is ideal for sourdough-based crusts. It brings out a golden finish without overpowering the tangy notes of the dough. Frying, while crispy, may mask that subtle flavor.
What seasoning is good for empanada meat?
Seasonings like cumin, smoked paprika, garlic, and oregano are staples in any good empanada meat filling. You can also add chili flakes or a dash of cinnamon for a bold twist.
What is the difference between Spanish empanadas and Mexican empanadas?
Spanish empanadas are often larger and baked, sometimes using puff pastry or bread-like dough. Mexican empanadas tend to be smaller, sometimes sweet, and are often fried. However, this beef-sourdough-empanadas-recipe takes the best of both worlds—baked with bold, Latin-inspired spices.
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