Description
The mini beef empanadas with avocado crema recipe is a scaled-down version of the traditional Latin American pastry. The word empanada comes from the Spanish verb empanar, which literally means to wrap or coat in bread. These mini versions are designed as finger food, making them much easier to serve at parties or as a light lunch for children.
Ingredients
For the filling:
- 250g ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
For the dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup butter (cold, cubed)
- 1 egg
- 4–5 tbsp cold water
(Shortcut: use store-bought empanada wrappers if available)
For the avocado crema:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 tbsp yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the filling
Heat oil in a pan, sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add ground beef, cook until browned. Stir in paprika, cumin, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few more minutes, then let it cool. - Make the dough
Mix flour and salt, then rub in butter until crumbly. Add egg and cold water gradually to form a dough. Chill for 15–20 minutes. - Shape the empanadas
Roll out the dough and cut small circles. Place a spoonful of beef filling in the center, fold over, and seal the edges with a fork. - Cook
- Bake: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden
- Or fry: Deep fry until crispy and golden brown
- Make the avocado crema
Mash avocado and mix with yogurt, lime juice, and salt until smooth. - Serve
Serve warm empanadas with avocado crema on the side.
Notes
These mini beef empanadas are packed with savory flavor and paired perfectly with a creamy avocado dip. They make a great appetizer or party snack, offering a delicious balance of crispy, juicy, and refreshing tastes in every bite!
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked (or Fried)
- Cuisine: Latin American-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2–3 empanadas
- Calories: ~220 kcal per serving
Keywords: Small beef pastries with avocado dip, homemade meat empanadas, mini empanada recipe, beef turnovers with green sauce