Irresistible Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe You’ll Love

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by Emma Taylor

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There’s something magical about the combination of beef and cheese wrapped in a flaky pastry, don’t you think? Beef & Cheese Empanadas are like little pockets of joy, bursting with flavor and nostalgia. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking if you’re cooking up a gourmet feast or just treating them to a cozy night at home. For more inspiration, check out this French Toast Casserole recipe.

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These empanadas remind me of family gatherings where laughter was as abundant as the food. My aunt would whip up a batch, and we’d gobble them down faster than you could say “delicious.” Whether it’s a rainy day or a festive occasion, these delightful bites always hit the spot and leave you craving more. delicious pumpkin dessert.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This recipe for Beef & Cheese Empanadas makes meal prep simple and fun
  • Customize fillings based on your cravings or leftovers
  • The golden crust and savory filling make it irresistibly appealing
  • Perfect for parties or cozy family dinners, these empanadas are versatile enough to suit any occasion

I remember one particular evening when my friends gathered for game night, and I proudly served these empanadas fresh out of the oven. Their delighted expressions were priceless!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option but still packed with flavor.
  • Onion: Finely chop one medium onion for sweetness that complements the beef beautifully. sweet chocolate cookies.
  • Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves for an aromatic kick that elevates the entire dish. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe.
  • Cumin: A must-have spice that adds warmth; don’t skip it!
  • Cheese: Shredded cheese adds creaminess; choose your favorite type like cheddar or mozzarella.
  • Empanada Dough: You can use pre-made dough to save time, or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
  • Egg Wash: A simple mixture of egg and water gives your empanadas a beautiful golden finish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

Let’s Make it together

Sauté the Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté chopped onions until they turn translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add the Beef: Stir in ground beef; cook until browned and fully cooked through. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper while breaking apart any clumps for even cooking.

Mix in Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and gooey. Let this mixture cool slightly while you prepare the dough.

Prepare the Dough: If using store-bought dough, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut circles using a pastry cutter or bowl—aim for about 4 inches in diameter.

Fill and Fold Empanadas: Spoon about a tablespoon of filling onto one half of each dough circle. Fold over to create a half-moon shape; pinch edges tightly to seal them well.

Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; brush tops with egg wash. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Now that you’ve mastered making Beef & Cheese Empanadas, get ready to impress everyone at your next gathering! Serve warm alongside salsa or guacamole for dipping – trust me, they’ll disappear faster than you can say “empanada.” Enjoy every bite! baked butternut squash side dish. creamy butternut squash soup.

You Must Know

  • When making Beef & Cheese Empanadas, the dough should be chilled for at least 30 minutes
  • This helps it roll out smoothly and keeps it flaky
  • The aroma of baked empanadas fills your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather for a delicious feast

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by browning the beef with onions and spices, then let the filling cool before assembling. Make sure to seal the empanadas well to prevent any cheesy escapes during baking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out beef for chicken or even veggies. Adding different cheeses, like pepper jack, can bring an exciting twist to these classic empanadas.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in an oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until hot.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For perfect Beef & Cheese Empanadas, ensure your dough is well-chilled before rolling it out
  • Use a fork to crimp edges tightly and avoid filling overflows
  • Experiment with spices to find your favorite flavor combination that suits your taste buds

The first time I made these Beef & Cheese Empanadas, my friends declared me a culinary wizard. They vanished within minutes, leaving only crumbs and smiles behind.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought dough for Beef & Cheese Empanadas?

Absolutely! Store-bought dough saves time and works perfectly for this recipe.

How do I know when my empanadas are done baking?

Empanadas are ready when they turn golden brown and slightly puffy; this indicates they are cooked through.

Can I freeze Beef & Cheese Empanadas before baking?

Yes! Freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag once firm for easy storage.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe

Beef & Cheese Empanadas


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  • Author: Emma Taylor
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 12 empanadas 1x

Description

Beef & Cheese Empanadas are irresistible pastry pockets filled with savory ground beef, melty cheese, and aromatic spices. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, these delicious treats combine nostalgia and flavor in every bite. With a flaky golden crust and customizable filling options, they’re sure to be a hit at any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
  • 1 package (14 oz) empanada dough (or homemade)
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
  2. Stir in the ground beef; season with cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned.
  3. Remove from heat, stir in shredded cheese until melted. Let cool slightly.
  4. Roll out empanada dough on a floured surface; cut into circles about 4 inches in diameter.
  5. Place a tablespoon of filling on one half of each circle; fold over and seal the edges tightly.
  6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place empanadas on a lined baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Latin American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 empanada (90g)
  • Calories: 215
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 360mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

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