If you’re craving a snack that’s bursting with hearty flavors and melty cheese, this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe is the perfect solution. These golden pockets of savory goodness combine seasoned ground beef with gooey cheese, all wrapped in a crisp, flaky dough that bakes to perfection. Whether you’re serving them up for a casual family dinner or impressing friends at a party, these empanadas never fail to delight with their rich flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem simple, but each plays a crucial role in building the delicious layers of flavor, texture, and color that make these empanadas irresistible.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps soften the onions perfectly.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base that delivers rich, meaty flavor and satisfying protein.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Brings sweetness and moisture to balance the meat.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Infuses a gentle pungency that enhances the overall taste.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Offers warm, earthy notes that give the filling its signature savory depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky touch and vibrant color to the beef mixture.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and boosting all other flavors.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella): Melts into a creamy, decadent layer that complements the beef beautifully.
- 1 package empanada dough (store-bought or homemade): The flaky shell that holds everything together and crisps up wonderfully.
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Provides a golden, glossy finish that makes these empanadas look as good as they taste.
How to Make Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and cook until it softens and becomes fragrant, about 3 minutes. Then add minced garlic and ground beef, stirring and breaking up the meat as it browns. Cook until the beef is fully done, then drain any excess fat to keep the filling rich but not greasy.
Step 2: Season and Add Cheese
Once the beef mixture is off the heat and slightly cooled, stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. These spices take the flavor from good to unforgettable, coaxing the best out of the meat. Finally, fold in the shredded cheese so it starts to soften and meld with the beef, creating a melty filling that’s pure comfort in every bite.
Step 3: Shape the Empanadas
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and get ready to assemble. Roll out your empanada dough to a comfortable thickness and use a round cutter or glass to create circles. Spoon a generous amount of the beef and cheese filling onto each circle, then fold the dough over to make a half-moon. Crimp the edges with a fork to seal everything inside and give each empanada that classic, rustic look.
Step 4: Egg Wash and Bake
Brush the tops of each empanada with the beaten egg—this step is key for a shiny, golden crust that’s as inviting as the filling itself. Arrange the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking, then pop them into your preheated oven. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, until the dough is crisp and glowing with a gorgeous golden-brown hue.
Step 5: Enjoy Your Creation
Once out of the oven, let the empanadas cool for a few minutes to allow the filling to settle. These Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe tastes best warm, when the cheese is perfectly melted and the crust is delightfully crisp. Dive in and enjoy a little handheld slice of heaven.
How to Serve Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a fresh garnish can really elevate your empanadas. Try sprinkling chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for a bright pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness. A dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime juice also complements the richness beautifully, balancing out the savory and cheesy filling with a little tang.
Side Dishes
These empanadas pair wonderfully with simple and fresh sides. A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while a side of black beans or a corn salsa adds texture and a burst of flavor. For something heartier, a bowl of guacamole or a tomato-based dipping sauce makes a fantastic companion.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Serve your empanadas on a wooden platter lined with colorful napkins and scatter some lime wedges for easy squeezing. You can also stack them in a pyramid shape for an impressive party platter. Individual servings with small dipping bowls of chimichurri or spicy aioli transform these into irresistible finger food perfect for gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your fresh empanadas, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, giving you a quick, satisfying snack or meal that just needs a little reheating.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead or save some for another day, freeze the uncooked empanadas by laying them on a baking sheet until solid, then transferring to a freezer bag. They can be stored frozen for up to 2 months, ready to bake straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To bring leftover empanadas back to life, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This method revives their crispiness and ensures the filling is heated through without getting soggy or chewy like the microwave sometimes causes.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat for this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef is classic and flavorful, ground chicken, turkey, or even pork work well. Adjust seasoning accordingly to complement the meat you choose.
Is it possible to make the dough from scratch?
Yes! Homemade empanada dough gives a wonderful texture and flavor. It’s typically made with flour, butter, water, and a pinch of salt. Store-bought dough is a great time saver, but making it yourself is rewarding and delicious.
What cheese works best in Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe?
Cheddar and mozzarella are popular choices because they melt beautifully. You can also experiment with Monterey Jack or a mild quesadilla cheese depending on your taste preference.
Can I bake empanadas instead of frying them?
Definitely! Baking is a healthier option and still gives a flaky, golden crust. Make sure to brush the dough with egg wash to get that beautiful color and crispness.
How spicy is this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe?
This recipe is mildly spiced due to the cumin and paprika. You can adjust the heat by adding chili flakes or cayenne pepper if you prefer a bit of a kick.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about biting into a warm, cheesy empanada filled with savory beef. This Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe strikes the perfect balance of comfort and flair, making it a true crowd-pleaser. I encourage you to try it out, share it with loved ones, and savor every delicious moment of this easy-to-make, unforgettable treat.
Print
Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American
Description
These delicious Beef & Cheese Empanadas feature a savory ground beef filling seasoned with aromatic spices and mixed with melted cheese, all encased in a flaky empanada dough. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, they make an ideal appetizer, snack, or party treat.
Ingredients
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)
Dough & Topping
- 1 package empanada dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics and brown the beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and ground beef, cooking until browned and fully cooked. 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 from heat and allow to cool slightly. Once cool, mix in the shredded cheese thoroughly.
- Prepare empanada dough: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the empanada dough on a flat surface and cut into circles of desired size for the empanadas.
- Fill and shape empanadas: Place a spoonful of the beef and cheese filling onto each dough circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Seal the edges by crimping them with a fork to ensure the filling stays inside while baking.
- Apply egg wash and arrange for baking: Brush the tops of each empanada with the beaten egg. Arrange the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Bake until golden: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve warm: Remove from oven and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Notes
- You can use either cheddar or mozzarella cheese depending on your flavor preference.
- For crispier empanadas, ensure the dough circles are well sealed before baking.
- Empanadas can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if baking from cold.
- Try adding vegetables like diced bell peppers or olives to the filling for variety.
