Gourmet Pastelillos (Meat Pies)

4.8
(4)
2 Reviews
6 Photos

These pastelillos have the unique flavor of Puerto Rican seasonings, green olives, and lean beef combined in a deep-fried pastry for a deliciously spicy turnover. They can be served small as appetizers or meal size.

Submitted by Joanna
Updated on June 19, 2024
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Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
35 mins
Total Time:
55 mins
Servings:
15
Yield:
15 pastelillos
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Ingredients

Original recipe (1X) yields 15 servings

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 pound extra-lean ground beef

  • ½ onion, diced

  • ¼ cup tomato sauce

  • 6 large pimento-stuffed olives, diced

  • 2 tablespoons sofrito (such as Goya)

  • 1 (1.41 ounce) package sazòn seasoning with coriander and achiote (such as Goya)

  • 2 small garlic cloves, minced and crushed

  • ½ teaspoon oregano

  • 2 (14 ounce) packages frozen empanada dough (such as Goya discos)

  • 4 cups vegetable oil, or as needed for frying

Directions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir beef in hot oil until browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in onion, tomato sauce, olives, sofrito, sazòn, garlic, and oregano. Bring to a simmer and cook until mixture is thickened, about 15 minutes.

  2. Spoon 1 heaping tablespoon meat mixture into the middle of a disco. Moisten the edges, fold dough to form a half-moon, and press with a fork to seal. Repeat with remaining meat mixture and discos.

  3. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Working in batches, fry pastelillos in hot oil until golden brown and bubbly, about 3 minutes. Drain on paper towels before serving.

From the Editor

We have determined the nutritional value of oil for frying based on a retention value of 10% after cooking. Amount will vary depending on cooking time and temperature, ingredient density, and specific type of oil used.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

290 Calories
16g Fat
28g Carbs
11g Protein
Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 15
Calories 290
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 16g 20%
Saturated Fat 4g 18%
Cholesterol 21mg 7%
Sodium 736mg 32%
Total Carbohydrate 28g 10%
Dietary Fiber 2g 5%
Total Sugars 0g
Protein 11g 22%
Vitamin C 1mg 1%
Calcium 6mg 0%
Iron 1mg 4%
Potassium 111mg 2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.