If you are craving something warm, satisfying, and bursting with flavor, this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe is an absolute must-try. These golden, crispy pockets of deliciousness combine savory ground beef spiced just right and gooey melted cheese, all wrapped in flaky, tender dough. Whether you’re reaching for a comforting weeknight meal or something impressive for a gathering, these empanadas bring pure joy in every bite. Trust me, once you taste this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is surprisingly simple for this recipe, but each one plays an essential role in creating the classic flavor and beautiful texture of the empanadas. From the rich seasoning in the beef to the luscious melt of cheese and the crisp dough, every element is a part of this delicious puzzle.
- Olive oil: Brings richness and helps sauté the onion and beef.
- Ground beef (1 lb): The flavorful protein base that carries the spices beautifully.
- Small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and a tender bite after cooking.
- Garlic clove, minced: Elevates the dish with aromatic depth.
- Cumin (1 teaspoon): A warm spice that gives the filling a subtle earthiness.
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds mild smokiness and vibrant color.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing all flavors into perfect balance.
- Shredded cheese (1 cup): Choose cheddar or mozzarella for a gooey, melty surprise inside.
- Empanada dough (1 package): Store-bought or homemade, the dough is the crispy, flaky vessel for all those flavors.
- Egg, beaten: Used for an egg wash that gives the empanadas a gorgeous golden finish.
How to Make Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
Step 1: Sauté and cook the beef filling
Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Then add the garlic and ground beef, stirring and breaking the meat apart as it cooks until it’s thoroughly browned and no longer pink. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat for a cleaner, better texture in your filling.
Step 2: Spice and combine with cheese
Once your beef and onions are cooked, sprinkle in your cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper for a perfectly balanced savory blend. Remove the pan from heat so the mixture can cool slightly before folding in the shredded cheese. This step ensures the cheese melts gently inside the empanadas without becoming oily or separating.
Step 3: Prepare the empanada dough and fill each one
While the filling cools, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out your empanada dough on a lightly floured surface, then use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles. Place a spoonful of the beef and cheese mixture into the center of each circle, careful not to overfill. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, then press the edges with a fork to seal them tight. This gives your empanadas that signature crimped edge and helps keep all the yummy filling inside.
Step 4: Brush with egg wash and arrange on baking sheet
Brush the tops of each empanada with your beaten egg. This simple step will give you that irresistible golden crust after baking. Arrange the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 5: Bake to golden perfection
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the empanadas for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll want to check for a deep, golden brown color and that crisp exterior that gives way to a tender, juicy filling. The smell alone will have your kitchen buzzing with anticipation!
Step 6: Enjoy your homemade empanadas warm
The best way to enjoy these Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe beauties is fresh out of the oven, warm and gooey. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce to take the experience to the next level.
How to Serve Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, or a few chili flakes bring freshness and a little extra kick that complements the rich beef and cheese nicely. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole on the side adds creaminess and balances the spices beautifully.
Side Dishes
For a full meal, these empanadas go wonderfully with light sides such as a crisp mixed green salad with a zesty vinaigrette, or perhaps a colorful tomato and avocado salad. If you want something heartier, some black beans and rice are a perfect match, echoing the Latin American inspiration.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or casual get-togethers, arrange your empanadas on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of salsa, chimichurri, or hot sauce to make it interactive and fun. You can also serve mini empanadas as bite-sized appetizers with cocktail picks for easy grabbing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which might be rare!), place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The filling keeps well, and the dough remains surprisingly flaky after reheating.
Freezing
Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe is perfect for freezing. Before baking, arrange the prepared empanadas on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 months, ready to bake fresh when you’re craving that comforting taste again.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the empanadas in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese for this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a spicy kick, or even a blend of cheeses for richer flavor.
Is it possible to make the empanada dough from scratch?
Yes, making homemade dough can be rewarding and delicious, allowing you to control texture and flavor. However, store-bought dough is a convenient alternative that still yields fantastic results.
How do I prevent the empanadas from leaking during baking?
Make sure to seal the edges completely by pressing firmly with a fork and avoid overfilling. A little egg wash along the edges before folding also helps seal the dough securely.
Can I substitute ground beef with other proteins?
Definitely! Ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well if you want to switch up the protein or lighten the dish.
What dipping sauces pair best with these empanadas?
Classic options include chimichurri, salsa roja, guacamole, or a creamy cilantro-lime dip. These add fresh, vibrant flavors that complement the rich beef and cheese filling.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to make your own batch of this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe. Each bite is like a warm hug filled with melting cheese and savory beef that will make your kitchen smell incredible. Whether cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these empanadas are guaranteed to please. Give them a try—you won’t regret it!
Print
Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 empanadas
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American
Description
These Beef & Cheese Empanadas are a delicious and savory handheld treat featuring a flavorful ground beef filling mixed with melted cheese, all encased in a crispy baked dough. Perfect for appetizers, snacks, or a satisfying meal, this recipe is straightforward to prepare and yields a dozen golden, cheesy empanadas.
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 & Finishing
- 1 package empanada dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics and beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and ground beef, cooking until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat to keep the filling from becoming greasy.
- Season and mix filling: Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to flavor the beef mixture. Remove the skillet from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly before folding in the shredded cheese to meld the flavors.
- Prepare empanada dough: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the empanada dough on a lightly floured surface, then cut it into circles of desired size, typically 4-6 inches in diameter.
- Assemble empanadas: Place a spoonful of the beef and cheese filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, then press and crimp the edges firmly with a fork to seal the empanadas tightly.
- Apply egg wash and bake: Brush the tops of each empanada with the beaten egg to ensure a glossy, golden finish during baking. Arrange the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Bake until golden and crispy: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the empanadas are beautifully golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Serve: Remove the empanadas from the oven and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as salsa, chimichurri, or sour cream.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling.
- Use different types of shredded cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for varied flavors.
- The empanada dough can be store-bought or homemade; refrigerate dough if making in advance.
- Ensure the edges are well sealed to prevent filling leakage during baking.
- Leftover empanadas can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for best texture retention.
