If you’re craving a hand-held snack bursting with rich, savory flavors, this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe will absolutely steal your heart. Imagine tender ground beef seasoned with warm spices, mingling perfectly with melted cheddar cheese, all wrapped in a golden, flaky crust that’s baked to perfection. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family dinner, or a cozy night in, these empanadas bring comfort and excitement to every bite. They’re surprisingly easy to whip up, yet so satisfying you’ll want to make them again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The brilliance of this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating a symphony of flavors and textures. From the aromatic spices to the creamy cheese and crisp crust, every component adds its own magic.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a rich base to sauté the onions and garlic, adding depth to the filling.
- 1 lb ground beef: The star protein, delivering hearty, meaty goodness.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds subtle sweetness and texture to the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Lends a fragrant punch to brighten the savory beef.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Offers a warm, earthy undertone essential for authentic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds mild smokiness and vibrant color.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Gives a slight kick that wakes up the palate without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance every ingredient.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully into the beef, adding creamy richness.
- 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts: The convenient, flaky dough that holds the filling in a perfect pocket.
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Creates a gorgeous golden sheen on the crust while baking.
How to Make Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start things off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your empanadas bake evenly and lift off easily without sticking. This simple prep will save you a lot of cleanup time later.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and sauté it gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it turns soft and fragrant. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. This base builds a flavorful foundation that complements the beef perfectly.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet along with the ground cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the beef thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spoon to achieve small, tender crumbles. Once browned, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese while the mixture is still hot. The cheese melts into the beef creating a luscious filling that’s irresistible.
Step 4: Prepare the Dough
Lay out the refrigerated pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Roll them out gently if they need a bit more thickness, then use a 4-inch round cutter (or a cup) to cut out circles. These dough rounds will become crisp, golden pockets of deliciousness.
Step 5: Assemble the Empanadas
Scoop a spoonful of the warm beef and cheese filling onto the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly and use a fork to crimp the edges and seal everything inside so the filling stays put while baking.
Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash and Bake
Arrange the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each one lightly with the beaten egg; this step is key to getting that shiny, golden-brown crust. Bake in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until your kitchen fills with an amazing aroma and the crust turns beautifully golden.
Step 7: Serve
Give the empanadas a few minutes to cool so the filling settles but not so long that they lose their inviting warmth. Grab one, take a bite, and enjoy the heavenly combination of flavors and textures.
How to Serve Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these empanadas, try topping them with fresh chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of green onions. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole on the side adds creaminess that complements the savory beef and cheese. For a zingy twist, a drizzle of spicy salsa or a squeeze of lime will brighten each bite beautifully.
Side Dishes
This beloved Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp garden salad, tangy pickled vegetables, or a colorful rice dish like cilantro-lime rice. A bowl of black beans adds a satisfying, wholesome touch making your meal feel complete and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For a gathering, arrange the empanadas on a rustic wooden board surrounded by small bowls of dips and garnishes. You could also stack them in a basket lined with a vibrant cloth for a cozy feel. Mini versions work great as appetizers or finger food at parties, impressing guests with every delicious bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The empanadas maintain their flavor and texture well, making them perfect for a quick snack or lunch later on.
Freezing
You can freeze these empanadas before baking by placing them on a tray to freeze individually and then transferring to a freezer bag. This way, you’ll have ready-to-bake snacks on hand anytime. When frozen, they keep well for up to 2 months and can be baked straight from the freezer with a few extra minutes added to the cook time.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop the empanadas into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that beautiful flakiness intact; the oven always does the trick best.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar adds a lovely sharpness and melts well, you can experiment with mozzarella for stretchiness, pepper jack for some heat, or even a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor profile.
Is it possible to make the dough from scratch?
Yes, making your own dough is a great option if you want complete control over ingredients and texture. A simple dough made from flour, butter, salt, and water works beautifully, but the refrigerated pie crust saves time and delivers consistent results.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Definitely. The beef and cheese filling keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days, making it a perfect make-ahead step. Just assemble and bake your empanadas when ready.
What’s the best way to seal empanadas without a fork?
If you don’t have a fork handy, you can press the edges together with your fingers or twist the edges to create a decorative seal that also keeps the filling inside securely.
Are these empanadas suitable for freezing after baking?
While you can freeze baked empanadas, the texture of the crust may soften a bit upon thawing. For best results, freeze them before baking and bake fresh from frozen when you want to enjoy them.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe enough for anyone looking to add a little magic to their mealtime. It’s approachable, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Once you try these golden, savory pockets, you’ll understand why they’ve become a personal favorite. Give it a shot, and I promise you’ll be hooked just like I am!
Print
Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American
Description
These Beef & Cheese Empanadas are a delicious and satisfying snack or appetizer, featuring a flavorful ground beef filling blended with aromatic spices and melted cheddar cheese, all wrapped in a flaky pie crust and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
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
Dough & Finishing
- 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.
- Cook the Filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet along with cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the beef until fully browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
- Prepare the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the refrigerated pie crusts and cut into 4-inch circles to form the empanada bases.
- Assemble the Empanadas: Spoon a generous amount of the beef and cheese filling onto the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, then press the edges with a fork to seal completely.
- Brush with Egg Wash and Bake: Place the empanadas onto the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to achieve a glossy, golden finish when baked. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Allow the empanadas to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving to ensure the filling sets and they are safe to eat.
Notes
- You can substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different cheese flavor.
- For a spicier filling, add chopped jalapeños or extra chili powder.
- Empanadas can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispness.
