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
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 & 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.
