If you are craving a delightful snack that combines savory beef and gooey cheese inside a crisp, flaky crust, this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe is about to become your new favorite. These empanadas are not only bursting with bold flavors but also incredibly satisfying and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you want a tasty appetizer, a comforting meal, or a fun party treat, these golden pockets are ready to win hearts one bite at a time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each chosen to enhance the rich, comforting taste and texture of the empanadas. From the savory spices that bring the beef filling alive to the smooth, melty cheddar cheese and flaky pie crust, every component plays a crucial role in making this dish irresistibly delicious.
- Olive oil: Helps sauté the onions and garlic, adding a subtle fruity depth to the filling.
- Ground beef (1 lb): The hearty base that provides the meaty richness and texture.
- Small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and a tender bite to balance the spices.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2): Brings aromatic warmth and a little zestiness to the filling.
- Ground cumin (1 tsp): Infuses the beef with earthy, smoky undertones essential for that classic empanada flavor.
- Paprika (1 tsp): Offers subtle smokiness and enhances color.
- Chili powder (1/2 tsp): Adds a hint of heat without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, for perfectly balanced seasoning.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts smoothly into the beef, making every bite cheesy and satisfying.
- Refrigerated pie crusts (14 oz package): The quick and easy dough that bakes up crisp and flaky.
- Egg, beaten (1): Creates a shiny, golden finish when brushed on the empanadas before baking.
How to Make Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the empanadas right when you’re ready. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so the empanadas won’t stick and clean up is a breeze.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion, cooking it until it’s nice and soft—about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. This builds a flavorful foundation for the beef filling.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet along with the cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the beef thoroughly, breaking it apart as it browns so you get nicely crumbled pieces. Once cooked, remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt and bind everything together beautifully.
Step 4: Prepare the Dough
Lightly flour your workspace and unwrap the refrigerated pie crusts. Roll them out gently if needed, then use a round cutter or a glass to cut 4-inch circles. These rounds act as the perfect canvas to hold all that savory filling.
Step 5: Assemble the Empanadas
Place a generous spoonful of the beef and cheese mixture onto one side of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, then press the edges firmly with a fork to seal in all the deliciousness and prevent any leaks during baking.
Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash and Bake
Arrange the empanadas on your lined baking sheet with a little space between each one. Brush the tops with beaten egg to give them a gorgeous golden shine as they bake. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until they’re beautifully browned and crisp.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Let your Beef & Cheese Empanadas cool for a few minutes after baking so they’re warm but not too hot to handle. Then dig in and enjoy the perfect balance of flaky crust, savory beef, and melty cheese in every bite.
How to Serve Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro or a dollop of creamy sour cream can brighten flavors and add a fresh contrast to the warm, savory empanadas. You might also enjoy them with a squeeze of lime or a side of tangy salsa for an extra flavor punch.
Side Dishes
To round out the meal, pair these empanadas with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even a comforting bowl of black beans and rice. These sides complement the richness of the filling without overpowering it, creating a satisfying and balanced dining experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or casual gatherings, serve the empanadas on a wooden board surrounded by small bowls of different dipping sauces—think guacamole, chipotle mayo, or even a spicy chutney. You can also cut them into smaller wedges for easy finger food that guests will love to pick at.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store your leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, perfect for quick snacks or an easy lunch on-the-go.
Freezing
If you want to keep these beauties on hand for longer, you can freeze them either before or after baking. To freeze unbaked empanadas, arrange them on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Frozen baked empanadas should be cooled and stored similarly. They can keep for up to 3 months without losing their tasty appeal.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated empanadas by baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes. This keeps the crust crisp and warms the filling thoroughly without drying it out. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the flaky texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar is great for melting and flavor, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a different twist. Just choose cheeses that melt well.
Is it possible to make these empanadas gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the refrigerated pie crust with a gluten-free pastry dough available at some stores or homemade versions. Make sure the filling seasonings don’t contain gluten for a safe gluten-free option.
How spicy is this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe?
The chili powder adds just a gentle warmth without being overpowering. If you prefer more heat, you can increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For milder empanadas, reduce the chili powder or omit it altogether.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Definitely! The beef and cheese filling can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just assemble and bake the empanadas when you’re ready. This is a great time-saver for busy days or entertaining guests.
What can I serve with empanadas to make a full meal?
Pair your empanadas with fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or a classic Latin American side like black beans and rice. These pairings add balance and extra nutrients, making your meal hearty and complete.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that delivers bold flavors and comforting textures, this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe is your answer. With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and a satisfying result, it’s the perfect dish to make anytime you want to impress or simply enjoy something deliciously homemade. Trust me, once you try these golden pockets of goodness, you’ll keep coming back for more!
Print
Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 empanadas
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American
Description
Delicious and savory Beef & Cheese Empanadas featuring a flavorful ground beef filling seasoned with cumin, paprika, and chili powder, mixed with melted cheddar cheese, all encased in flaky pie crusts and baked until golden brown. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Dough
- 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cook the Filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet along with ground cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the beef, breaking it into small pieces, until browned and fully cooked. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts on a floured surface to prevent sticking. Cut the dough into 4-inch circles using a cookie cutter or a glass.
- Assemble the Empanadas: Spoon a generous amount of the beef and cheese filling onto one half of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges together firmly to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative and secure seal.
- Brush with Egg Wash and Bake: Place the assembled empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg wash to promote a golden, shiny crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the empanadas turn golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the empanadas from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving to enjoy the perfect balance of crispy crust and savory filling.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor.
- Empanadas can be made ahead and frozen; bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Use a fork to crimp edges tightly to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
