Food is at the heart of every culture—there’s no question about it. And if there’s one dish that can rival the parrillada for the Argentinian spotlight, it’s Argentine beef empanadas.
They’re a symbol of Argentinian food culture; the centerpiece of every Sunday family gathering, and the go-to comfort food that saves any random Tuesday night. Simply put, beef empanadas are a true Argentine classic.
If you’re craving authentic Argentinian comfort food, keep reading to discover what makes Argentine empanadas so special and where to find the best ones near you.
Introduction to Argentine Beef Empanadas
Argentine food culture revolves around high-quality ingredients, time-honored cooking techniques, and dishes meant to be shared. While Argentinian cuisine is often associated with asado and steak –and of course, no one questions the supremacy of these two–, bur Argentine beef empanadas hold a special place in every household and restaurant.
These turnovers are made by filling a thin dough with a seasoned meat mixture before folding, sealing, and baking (or frying) them to perfection. The result? A warm, crispy, and flavorful bite that embodies the spirit of Argentinian comfort food.
In Argentina, every region has its own take on empanadas. Some are spicier, some include raisins or olives, and others have a juicier, more saucy filling. But one thing remains the same: the love and tradition that go into making them.
At Baires Grill, we stay true to tradition, offering Argentine beef empanadas that reflect the authentic flavors of home.
Traditional Ingredients for Argentine Beef Empanadas
One of the seven wonders of Argentine empanadas, whether they are meat, chicken, vegetable or any other, is their delicious versatility. After all, the filling can always go further. The filling goes wherever your imagination takes you.
Because the Argentine empanadas recipe changes depending on the region, family, or even personal preference. Some versions are spicier, others include a touch of sweetness, and certain provinces prepare them with more sauce or extra juicy fillings.
But well, sticking to the Argentinean ground, there are of course a few must-haves that make up the essence of the authentic Argentine meat empanadas.
First and foremost, Argentinian beef, seasoned with a mix of cumin and paprika, is the star of the show. High-quality, finely chopped or ground beef gives the filling its core.
Also, onions are a must. Slowly cooked until soft and slightly caramelized, they add sweetness and enhance the overall flavor. In many traditional recipes, hard-boiled eggs and green olives are also included, bringing a creamy texture to the savory filling.
And of course, it all comes together with the empanada dough—thin, slightly flaky, and sturdy enough to hold all the delicious ingredients inside. Some prefer baking their empanadas for a golden, crispy crust, while others opt for frying to achieve a crunchier bite.
No matter the variation, these essential ingredients are what define a classic Argentine beef empanada. The beauty of this dish is that every bite tells a story, shaped by the traditions and flavors passed down through generations.
So, precisely for that reason, it is time to delve into the stories of the empanadas of northern Argentina, the mecca of this world-renowned dish.
Regional Variations
While the basic ingredients of Argentine beef empanadas remain similar across the country, each region has its own way of preparing them. Nowhere is this more evident than in northern Argentina, where empanadas are deeply rooted in local traditions. Here are three of the most iconic variations:
Empanadas Tucumanas
Hailing from Tucumán, these empanadas are known for their finely chopped matambre de vaca (flank steak) filling, cut by hand to preserve its texture. The meat is seasoned with cumin, black pepper, and paprika, then mixed with sautéed onions and garlic for a deep, savory flavor. Unlike other versions, empanadas tucumanas do not contain potatoes or olives.
They are traditionally cooked in a clay oven, which gives them a distinct smoky aroma and crispy crust. The real secret? The locals swear by adding a few drops of fresh lemon juice after every bite to enhance the flavors.
Empanadas Salteñas
From the province of Salta, these empanadas are famous for their spicy, juicy filling and distinctive dough made with wheat flour, beef fat, and paprika. The filling consists of knife-cut beef, slow-cooked in beef fat with onions, scallions, red bell peppers, ground chili, and ají molido (a type of crushed red pepper).
A must in this Argentine beef empanadas are the boiled potatoes and hard-boiled eggs, which give them extra texture. They are small in size, meant to be eaten in two bites, and are always baked in a clay oven for the perfect mix of both crispiness and tenderness.
Empanadas Riojanas “Criollas”
In La Rioja, empanadas take on a slightly sweeter touch thanks to the inclusion of raisins in the filling. The base is made with sirloin beef, combined with onions and scallions cooked in beef fat for a rich and hearty taste.
A true empanada riojana is never complete without olives, potatoes, red bell peppers, hard-boiled eggs, and raisins. This mix creates an experience of savory and slightly sweet flavors.
Each of these northern Argentine empanadas tells a different story, shaped by regional ingredients and local traditions. Whether spicy, juicy, or slightly sweet, they all showcase the incredible diversity of Argentinian cuisine.
Other Argentine Empanadas Classics
While Argentine beef empanadas are the most traditional, Argentina’s love for empanadas extends far beyond just one filling.
One of the most popular variations is chicken empanadas. They are filled with shredded chicken, onions, peppers, and a blend of spices that give them a comforting, home-cooked taste. Another crowd favorite is ham and cheese empanadas. Their gooey melted cheese pairs the saltiness of the ham, creating a simple yet irresistible option.
For those looking for a vegetarian twist, spinach empanadas are the one for you. They offer a creamy filling made with sautéed spinach and cheese. Some variations includes white sauce instead of cheese (or both for those with a bigger indulgent appetite).
Similarly, onion and cheese empanadas highlight the sweetness of caramelized onions combined with melted cheese.
On the other hand, another regional classic worth mentioning is corn empanadas, which are popular in some northern provinces. These are made with sweet corn, a creamy white sauce, and mild spices.
After all, the best thing about empanadas is that there are endless of them. This is a dish you can enjoy over and over without ever getting tired of it. Just pair them with the Argentinian wine of your choice, and you’ve got a true Argentine dinner done right.
Argentine Beef Empanadas Near Me
If you’re searching for Argentine beef empanadas near me, you don’t have to look far—Baires Grill brings authentic flavors straight from Argentina to the U.S.
We know that Argentine cuisine is much more than just steak. That’s why we offer a full selection of Argentinian food, including the best Argentine beef empanadas in town.
With multiple Baires Grill locations across Florida and New York, you’re never too far from the real taste of Argentine culture.
No matter which Baires Grill you visit, you’ll find Argentinian beef empanadas made with the highest quality ingredients. And of course, every location offers a carefully curated wine list to make your dinner one to remember.
Conclusion: Enjoy The True Taste of Authentic Argentinian Cuisine
There’s something special about Argentine beef empanadas… The infinitely delicious versatility, the crispy crust, the juicy and flavorful filling. Above all, the tradition behind them. If there’s one thing we can say about all their varieties, it’s that they are a true staple of Argentine food.
So if you want to taste that flavor of Argentine comfort and passion that only empanadas can give you, we are waiting for you at Baires Grill. The best empanadas are already sizzling in the fryer—book your table and come enjoy them!
