If you have been searching for a warm, comforting, and downright delicious dish that brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures, then this Beef and Cheese Empanadas Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. Each empanada bursts with a savory blend of spiced ground beef and melted cheeses, wrapped perfectly in a golden, flaky crust that promises a mouthful of happiness. Whether you’re serving them as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a hearty main course, these empanadas will quickly become your go-to recipe for delicious Latin American-inspired comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Beef and Cheese Empanadas Recipe is all about simple but powerful ingredients that each play an essential part in transforming humble components into an unforgettable treat. From the carefully chosen spices to the creamy cheeses and tender empanada dough, every element matters.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps soften the onions for a tender base flavor.
- Ground beef: Provides the hearty protein and the umami punch essential for the filling.
- Finely chopped onion: Offers sweetness and depth to complement the spices.
- Minced garlic: Brings a warm aroma and enhances the savory profile.
- Ground cumin: Infuses a gentle earthiness that is the hallmark of many Latin dishes.
- Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly sweet note that elevates the filling.
- Chili powder: Gives a hint of heat to balance the richness.
- Oregano: Lends an herbal brightness that cuts through the fatty beef.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that tie the flavors together perfectly.
- Tomato sauce: Provides moisture and a mild tang that binds the filling.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Contributes sharp, creamy goodness that melts beautifully.
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Adds a mild, buttery texture to complement the cheddar.
- Empanada dough discs: The golden, flaky vehicle that encases all the delicious filling.
- Beaten egg: For brushing on top, ensuring a glossy, inviting finish.
- Chopped cilantro or parsley (optional): Fresh herbs provide a pop of color and brightness when garnished.
How to Make Beef and Cheese Empanadas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then gently sauté the chopped onion until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Adding minced garlic and cooking it for an additional minute releases an irresistible aroma that sets the tone for the filling.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon as it browns evenly. Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat to avoid sogginess in your empanadas, ensuring the filling stays rich but not greasy.
Step 3: Season and Simmer
Sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper, stirring thoroughly to coat the beef in fragrant spices. Pour in the tomato sauce and let everything simmer gently for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens nicely, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Cool
Remove the skillet from heat, then stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. This step is crucial because the cheese melts slightly into the warm filling, creating pockets of creamy delight inside every empanada. Let the filling cool slightly so it is easier to handle during assembly.
Step 5: Assemble the Empanadas
Place 1 to 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center of each dough disc. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and crimp the edges firmly with a fork to seal your empanadas tightly, locking in that irresistible filling so it doesn’t leak out during baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Brush the tops of your empanadas with beaten egg for a shiny golden crust. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 18 to 22 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Let them cool just enough to handle, then get ready to enjoy the comforting, melty goodness!
How to Serve Beef and Cheese Empanadas Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or parsley on top of the warm empanadas will add a burst of color and a fresh herbal note that perfectly balances the creamy and savory filling. You can also serve with a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime for an extra zing.
Side Dishes
These empanadas pair wonderfully with fresh salads like a crisp cabbage slaw or a simple tomato and avocado salad. For a heartier meal, try serving alongside black beans or a light rice pilaf that complements the spices without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can turn simple empanadas into a festive feast. Arrange them on a colorful platter with small bowls of chimichurri, salsa, or guacamole for dipping. You could even serve mini empanadas on toothpicks as fun finger food for parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover empanadas, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh enough to enjoy without losing much of their original texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked empanadas by arranging them on a tray to freeze individually, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When you want to enjoy them later, bake directly from frozen and add 5 to 7 extra minutes to the original baking time. This makes your Beef and Cheese Empanadas Recipe perfect for meal prep or unexpected guests.
Reheating
To reheat, place empanadas in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through and the crust regains its crispness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy and take away from that wonderful texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this Beef and Cheese Empanadas Recipe?
Absolutely! Pepper Jack will add a spicy kick, while queso fresco offers a traditional, crumbly texture. Feel free to experiment to find your perfect cheese blend.
Is it possible to fry these empanadas instead of baking?
Yes, frying at 350°F for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden is a delicious alternative, producing a crispier crust and a slightly different flavor profile.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Definitely. The filling can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days, which makes assembling these empanadas faster and easier when you’re ready to bake.
How do I prevent the dough from getting soggy?
Make sure to drain excess fat from the cooked beef and avoid overfilling the empanadas. Also, letting the filling cool slightly before assembling prevents the dough from becoming too soft.
What can I serve as a dipping sauce?
Simple options like chimichurri, salsa roja, or a creamy cilantro-lime sauce all complement the flavors beautifully and add a refreshing contrast to the warm empanadas.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking to cozy up with a dish that feels like a warm hug straight from the heart of Latin American cuisine, this Beef and Cheese Empanadas Recipe is your answer. Its blend of spices, tender beef, and melty cheese encased in a flaky crust will quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Give it a try—you won’t regret filling your home with these delightful aromas and flavors!
Print
Beef and Cheese Empanadas Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 empanadas
- Category: Appetizer or Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American
- Diet: Dairy
Description
These Beef and Cheese Empanadas are a delicious Latin American appetizer or main course featuring a savory ground beef filling mixed with melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, all encased in a crispy baked pastry dough. Perfect for entertaining or a satisfying snack, they combine aromatic spices with a cheesy, hearty bite.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Dough and Assembly
- 1 package (14 oz) empanada dough discs (or pie crust cut into 5-inch rounds)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness.
- Season Meat: Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, and tomato sauce. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly to prevent melting the cheese prematurely.
- Add Cheese: Fold in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until well incorporated into the beef mixture.
- Assemble Empanadas: Place 1 to 2 tablespoons of the cooled filling onto the center of each empanada dough disc. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together. Crimp the edges with a fork to securely seal each empanada.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the tops of each filled empanada with the beaten egg. This will give them a beautiful golden and glossy finish when baked.
- Bake: Arrange the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired before serving warm.
Notes
- Empanadas can alternatively be fried at 350°F for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown for a crispier texture.
- Freeze unbaked empanadas for later use; bake from frozen by adding 5 to 7 extra minutes to the baking time.
- Use pepper jack cheese or queso fresco for a spicier or more authentic flavor variation.
