Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting yet delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion, you’ve come to the right place! This Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe is a personal favorite of mine. It blends savory ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and warm spices, all enveloped in a flaky pastry that’ll make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight dinner or hosting a family gathering, these empanadas are sure to be a hit!

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can enjoy them as a snack, an appetizer, or even as a satisfying main course. Plus, they’re easy to make ahead of time and simply pop in the oven when you need them. Trust me, once you try these empanadas, they will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious empanadas ready to bake.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves these tasty bites! They’re perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the filling in advance and assemble the empanadas when you’re ready to bake.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and melted cheese creates an irresistible taste everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up these delightful Beef & Cheese Empanadas, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

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
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the Pastry

• 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part – making these delicious empanadas!

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be. Feel free to get creative! Here are some variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers or spinach into the filling for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you’re a fan of heat, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
• Cheese alternatives: Try different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for unique flavor profiles.

How to Make Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when your empanadas are ready to go in. Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper will help prevent sticking and promote even baking.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This step is crucial because sautéing brings out the sweet flavors of the onion. Afterward, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Now it’s time to add the ground beef! Break it up with your spatula as it cooks. Season with cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cooking until browned ensures that all those spices meld beautifully into every bite.

Step 4: Mix in Cheese

Once your beef is cooked through, take it off heat and mix in that glorious shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and well combined. This cheesy filling is what makes these empanadas so irresistible!

Step 5: Roll Out Your Dough

On a floured surface, roll out your refrigerated pie crusts. Use a 4-inch round cutter to cut circles from the dough. These will become lovely little pockets for our filling!

Step 6: Fill Your Empanadas

Place a spoonful of your beef and cheese mixture in the center of each dough circle. Remember not to overfill them; otherwise sealing will be tricky!

Step 7: Seal Them Up

Fold each dough circle over to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to press down along the edges firmly; this seals in all that deliciousness inside.

Step 8: Brush with Egg Wash

Brush the tops of your empanadas with beaten egg before baking them. This gives them that beautiful golden-brown color when they come out of the oven.

Step 9: Bake Until Golden Brown

Arrange your empanadas on your prepared baking sheet and pop them into your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they turn golden brown and crisp.

Step 10: Cool Slightly Before Serving

Let them cool just enough so you don’t burn yourself—though I won’t blame you if you can’t resist diving right in! Enjoy these warm delights with friends or family!

With this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe at your fingertips, you’ll always have something deliciously comforting on hand! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe

Making the perfect Beef & Cheese Empanadas can be a rewarding experience, and a few handy tips can elevate your dish to new heights!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for fresh garlic and onions instead of dried versions for a more vibrant taste.
• Don’t overfill the empanadas: While it may be tempting to add a generous amount of filling, overfilling can lead to bursting during baking. A spoonful is just right to ensure they close properly and bake evenly.
• Seal well: Use the fork technique not only for aesthetics but also to prevent any leaks. A good seal keeps all the deliciousness inside where it belongs!
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices or even add your favorites like oregano or cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Personalizing the flavors makes these empanadas uniquely yours.
• Try freezing some: These empanadas freeze beautifully before baking. Just assemble them, place on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen when you’re ready for a quick snack!

How to Serve Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe

Presenting these Beef & Cheese Empanadas can turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary feast! Here are some fun and creative ideas to serve them up.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro: This adds a bright color and fresh flavor that complements the savory filling perfectly.
• Sour cream or yogurt: A dollop of sour cream provides a creamy contrast that balances out the spiciness of the empanadas.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who enjoy an extra kick, fresh sliced jalapeños on top will bring heat and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the empanadas.
• Guacamole: Creamy avocado goodness pairs wonderfully with empanadas, adding texture and flavor while keeping things deliciously simple.
• Black Beans: Seasoned black beans not only complement the beef filling well but also provide additional protein and fiber.
• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs makes for an excellent side that can soak up any drippings from your empanadas, enhancing each bite.

These serving suggestions will help you create a memorable dining experience around your tasty Beef & Cheese Empanadas! Enjoy sharing this delightful dish with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Beef & Cheese Empanadas are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade dish anytime. You can easily prepare them in advance and keep them fresh for later, making busy weeknights a breeze!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the empanadas to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

• Freeze uncooked empanadas before baking for future meals.
• Lay them flat on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label and date the bag; they can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated empanadas, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• For frozen empanadas, bake directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, adding a few extra minutes if necessary.

FAQs

Are these Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! These empanadas can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the storage instructions above to keep them fresh!

Can I customize the Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe with different ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or even swap out the cheddar cheese for your favorite variety. Get creative with your fillings!

How do I ensure my Beef & Cheese Empanadas turn out crispy?
To achieve that perfect crispiness, brush the tops with beaten egg before baking. Also, make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet to allow even airflow.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making these Beef & Cheese Empanadas as I do! They’re not just a tasty treat; they’re also a wonderful way to bring friends and family together around the table. Enjoy every bite of your creation, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations. Happy cooking!