Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
If you’re craving a delightful, savory snack that brings together hearty flavors and melty goodness, this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe is exactly what you need. Crispy, golden on the outside with a rich blend of seasoned beef and gooey cheese nestled inside, these empanadas are the perfect comfort food. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, game day, or just a cozy night in, this recipe promises to deliver a burst of flavor and satisfying texture with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing a key role in building the delicious flavor and texture of your empanadas. From the savory ground beef to the stretchy cheese, and the simple yet flaky dough, everything comes together seamlessly.
- Olive oil: For sautéing your onions and beef, adding a subtle fruitiness.
- Ground beef: The hearty filling’s star ingredient, bringing rich, meaty flavor.
- Small onion: Finely chopped for sweetness and moisture that balances the beef.
- Garlic clove: Minced to add a fragrant kick.
- Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy spice to deepen the flavor profile.
- Paprika: A hint of smoky color and mild heat.
- Salt and pepper: To season the filling just right.
- Shredded cheese: Cheddar or mozzarella works beautifully to add gooey richness.
- Empanada dough: Store-bought or homemade, this simple crust bakes up golden and flaky.
- Egg (for egg wash): Creates that irresistible glossy, golden finish.
How to Make Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in your finely chopped onion and sauté until it softens and smells wonderfully sweet, about three minutes. Add the minced garlic and immediately follow with the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks until nicely browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat to keep the filling just right—moist but not greasy.
Step 2: Season and Combine
Now stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to build that warm, savory flavor that makes these empanadas unforgettable. Remove your skillet from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly before folding in the shredded cheese. This ensures the cheese melts perfectly when baking but doesn’t get too runny inside.
Step 3: Prepare the Dough
While your filling cools, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out your empanada dough and cut out circles that are just the right size for filling. This step shapes the foundation for each empanada’s iconic half-moon look.
Step 4: Fill and Seal
Place a spoonful of the beef and cheese filling into each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon pocket, then crimp the edges securely with a fork. This not only seals the filling inside but gives your empanadas that charming, rustic appearance.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake
Brush the tops of each empanada with beaten egg to give them a beautiful glossy finish once baked. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet with a bit of space in between. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and irresistibly crispy.
Step 6: Ready to Enjoy!
Once baked, these Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe wonders are best enjoyed warm. Serve them right away with your favorite dipping sauce and get ready to impress everyone at your table.
How to Serve Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or a dollop of tangy sour cream adds freshness and brightness, perfectly complementing the rich beef and cheese filling. For a touch of heat, a few pickled jalapeños on the side bring excitement to every bite.
Side Dishes
Pair these empanadas with a crisp, green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or some black beans and rice for a heartier meal. The contrast of textures and flavors makes the experience even more delightful.
Creative Ways to Present
Lay your empanadas on a wooden serving board surrounded by small bowls of chimichurri, salsa, or guacamole for a vibrant spread. You can even serve mini versions as party bites alongside colorful vegetable sticks for a crowd-pleasing appetizer tray.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This helps maintain their crispy texture and tender filling without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead, freeze unbaked empanadas arranged on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored frozen for up to two months, perfect for busy days when you need a quick, tasty treat.
Reheating
To reheat, pop your empanadas in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy crusts and preserve that delightful crunch.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a lighter filling while still pairing wonderfully with the cheese and spices. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and drain any excess moisture before filling your empanadas.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar and mozzarella are both fantastic choices. Cheddar adds sharpness and depth, while mozzarella brings a lovely meltiness. Feel free to experiment or even mix the two for layered flavor.
Is it possible to make the dough from scratch?
Definitely! While store-bought dough is convenient, homemade dough adds a personal touch and incredible freshness. There are simple recipes involving flour, butter, and water that yield tender and flaky results perfect for empanadas.
Can I freeze empanadas after baking?
Yes, you can freeze cooked empanadas. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container or bag. Reheat in the oven straight from the freezer, adjusting time as needed until heated through and crispy.
What dipping sauces go well with beef and cheese empanadas?
Chimichurri, salsa roja, guacamole, or even a creamy garlic aioli all complement the flavors beautifully. These sauces add extra zest and freshness that elevate the experience.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sharing a warm, cheesy, and perfectly spiced Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe with friends and family. Its comforting flavors and satisfying textures make it a go-to crowd-pleaser anytime. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into an empanada-making adventure that’s as fun to create as it is delicious to eat. You won’t regret it!
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Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
These Beef & Cheese Empanadas are a delicious and hearty snack or appetizer featuring a savory ground beef filling blended with melted cheese, all encased in a crispy, golden baked dough. Perfectly spiced with cumin and paprika, these empanadas are easy to prepare and bake to perfection, offering a satisfying warm treat ideal for parties, gatherings, or a comforting meal.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
For the Dough
- 1 package empanada dough (store-bought or homemade)
For Finishing
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Sauté Onion and Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it softens, about 3 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Season and Mix Filling: Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the cooked beef mixture. Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the filling to cool slightly. Once cooled, mix in the shredded cheese evenly.
- Prepare Empanada Dough: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the empanada dough on a clean surface and cut it into circles of your preferred size for empanadas.
- Fill and Shape Empanadas: Place a spoonful of the beef and cheese filling onto the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Seal the edges by crimping with a fork to ensure the filling stays inside during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash and Bake: Brush the top of each empanada with the beaten egg to help achieve a golden, glossy finish when baked. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them evenly.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until they turn crisp and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Serve: Enjoy the empanadas warm, optionally paired with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese depending on your preference.
- If you prefer a spicier filling, add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper along with the cumin and paprika.
- Ensure the filling is slightly cooled before filling the dough to avoid sogginess.
- Empanada dough can be homemade or store-bought for convenience.
- Use a fork to tightly seal the edges to prevent any filling from leaking during baking.
- These empanadas can be frozen before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American
