Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe

If you’re looking for a recipe that brings joy and comfort to your kitchen, look no further than this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe. These delightful little pockets of goodness combine savory ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and just the right mix of spices, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry. They are perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying, or for family gatherings where everyone will appreciate a tasty snack.

What I love most about these empanadas is their versatility. Whether you’re hosting friends for game night or simply craving a cozy meal at home, these empanadas fit the bill perfectly. Plus, they are easy to make ahead of time—just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it a fantastic option for any night of the week.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these cheesy, meaty treats. They make snacking fun!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare these empanadas ahead of time and freeze them for later. Just bake from frozen when you’re ready to indulge.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of spices with beef and cheese creates a delicious filling that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
• Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delicious Beef & Cheese Empanadas, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Let’s gather what we need to whip up this flavorful dish!

Ingredients:
– 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
– 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Variations

One of the best things about empanadas is how flexible they are! If you’re feeling adventurous or want to accommodate different tastes, here are some fun variations you can try:

• Swap the Protein: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers with the meat mixture for an extra dose of veggies.
• Cheese Lovers Delight: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique flavor.
• Spice it Up: If you like heat, add some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the filling for an extra kick.

How to Make Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your empanadas will bake evenly and achieve a lovely golden color.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s softened and translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic, cooking it for another minute until fragrant. This step is crucial as it builds a flavorful base for your filling.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Now it’s time to add in the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks. Stir in the cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cooking until browned ensures that all those spices infuse into the meat beautifully.

Step 4: Mix in the Cheese

Once your beef is cooked through, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the warm beef mixture. This creates that irresistible cheesy filling!

Step 5: Prepare the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out your refrigerated pie crusts. Use a 4-inch round cutter to cut out circles of dough. This will be where all that delicious filling goes!

Step 6: Fill Each Empanada

Place a spoonful of your beef and cheese mixture in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill—this makes sealing tricky!

Step 7: Seal Your Empanadas

Fold each dough circle over its filling to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to press down along the edges firmly; this seals them tight so none of that lovely filling escapes during baking.

Step 8: Brush and Bake

Brush the tops of each empanada with beaten egg for that golden finish. Place them on your prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown.

Step 9: Cool Slightly Before Serving

Let your empanadas cool slightly before serving them warm. Enjoy every bite with family and friends—they’re sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe

Making empanadas can be a fun and rewarding experience, and these tips will help you perfect your Beef & Cheese Empanadas!

• Use cold ingredients: Starting with cold pie crust helps maintain flakiness. Warm dough can lead to overly soft empanadas that lose their structure while baking.
• Don’t overfill: While it’s tempting to pack in the filling, leaving some space ensures the empanadas seal properly. Overfilling can lead to bursting during baking.
• Crimp edges securely: Use a fork to press down firmly on the edges of the empanadas. This not only seals them but also adds a decorative touch!
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the beef mixture. A sprinkle of oregano or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile.
• Freeze for later: If you have leftovers or want to meal prep, freeze uncooked empanadas on a baking sheet before transferring them to a zip-top bag. They can be baked straight from frozen when you’re ready!

How to Serve Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe

These empanadas are delightful on their own but can be even more appealing with thoughtful presentation and complementary sides.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a bright, fresh flavor that complements the savory filling beautifully.
• Sour cream or yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or plant-based yogurt on the side enhances creaminess and balances the spices in the empanadas.

Side Dishes

• Mixed green salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and a crunchy contrast to the warm empanadas.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is an excellent accompaniment, offering rich flavors that pair perfectly with the spiced beef.
• Rice and beans: A simple side of seasoned rice and black beans provides heartiness and makes this dish more filling.
• Roasted vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots bring vibrant flavors and nutrients to your meal.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Beef & Cheese Empanadas will surely impress anyone who tries them! Enjoy creating this delicious dish for family gatherings or casual snack time.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Beef & Cheese Empanadas are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance, store them, and enjoy them whenever you crave a tasty snack or a quick meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Reheat before serving for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, place uncooked empanadas on a baking sheet and put them in the freezer until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• For reheating frozen empanadas, bake them directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes or until heated through and golden brown.
• For refrigerated leftovers, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe that might help you.

Can I make the Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe with ground turkey?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll have a lighter version of this dish.

How do I ensure my Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe has a flaky crust?

To achieve a flaky crust, handle the dough gently and avoid overworking it. Also, make sure your pie crusts are cold before rolling out and baking.

Can I customize the filling of the Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, or try different cheeses to suit your taste preferences.

What dipping sauces go well with Beef & Cheese Empanadas?

Salsa, guacamole, or sour cream make excellent accompaniments. You can also try a spicy aioli for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe a try! It’s truly special because it’s not just food; it’s a way to gather loved ones around the table for fun and flavors. Enjoy making these delightful pockets of goodness; I can’t wait for you to savor every bite. Happy cooking!