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
Scale
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.
