Easy Beef and Cheese Empanadas Recipe to Try

If you’re craving a dish that’s crispy on the outside, cheesy and savory on the inside, then this Beef and Cheese Empanadas recipe is your new go-to. These handheld pockets of flavor combine tender ground beef with melted cheese wrapped in a golden crust, making them perfect for any occasion, from casual snacks to party appetizers. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have delicious empanadas ready in no time, satisfying all those comfort food cravings with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you can whip these empanadas up even on busy days.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The savory beef pairs beautifully with gooey cheese, creating a richly satisfying taste in every bite.
• Versatile Snack or Meal: These empanadas work well as appetizers, lunches, or snacks, making them an adaptable choice for any event.
• Great for Sharing: Their portable size and deliciousness make them a crowd-pleaser at gatherings and parties.
• Customizable Filling: You can easily switch up the spices or cheese varieties to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keep it simple and savor every bite with these essential ingredients that bring fantastic taste and texture to your Beef and Cheese Empanadas. Each element plays a vital role in delivering that perfect flaky crust and flavorful filling.

• Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a tender yet juicy filling without excess grease.
• Cheese: A melty cheese like mozzarella or cheddar adds that irresistible gooey richness.
• Empanada Dough or Puff Pastry: Ready-made dough saves time and ensures a crispy, flaky crust every time.
• Onion: Finely chopped onions add subtle sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a warm, fragrant kick that enhances the savory notes.
• Spices: Ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper elevate the flavor with warmth and complexity.
• Olive Oil: Helps sauté the filling ingredients to perfection and adds a hint of fruitiness.
• Egg Wash: A beaten egg brushed on the empanadas before baking creates that golden-brown, shiny finish.

Variations for Beef and Cheese Empanadas

Feel free to make this recipe your own by experimenting with different fillings and seasonings. Whether you want to switch things up for dietary preferences or just crave new flavors, these variations let you customize with ease.

• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling for heat lovers.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap beef for sautéed mushrooms or black beans combined with cheese for a satisfying meatless option.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh cilantro, parsley, or oregano for a fresh, vibrant twist.
• Different Cheeses: Try queso fresco, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack to change up the melting texture and flavor.
• Sweet Onion and Bell Pepper: Add diced sweet onions and roasted red bell peppers for a touch of sweetness and color.

How to Make Beef and Cheese Empanadas

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté finely chopped onions and garlic until translucent and fragrant. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned and cooked through. Stir in spices like cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, seasoning to your taste. Let this mixture cool slightly before mixing in the cheese to prevent it from melting too soon.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

Lightly flour your workspace and roll out your empanada dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Using a round cutter or the rim of a cup, cut out circles approximately 4-5 inches in diameter. This size makes handling and folding easy while still offering plenty of filling inside.

Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas

Place a heaping tablespoon of the beef and cheese filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill to avoid tearing. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly, then crimp with a fork to seal completely and create that classic empanada look.

Step 4: Add the Egg Wash and Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each with a beaten egg to give the crust a gorgeous golden color when baked. Bake for about 20 minutes or until the crust is crisp and golden brown.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the empanadas rest for a few minutes after baking to cool slightly and let the cheese set. This makes them easier to handle and lets the flavors meld beautifully. Serve warm for the best experience.

Pro Tips for Making Beef and Cheese Empanadas

• Use Lean Meat: Helps prevent excess grease and keeps the filling from becoming soggy.
• Don’t Overfill: Overstuffing can cause the dough to break during cooking, so stick to a tablespoon or less per empanada.
• Chill Dough Before Baking: Resting the filled empanadas in the fridge for 15 minutes can prevent dough shrinkage during baking.
• Brush with Egg Wash: This simple step creates a crispy, golden crust that looks as good as it tastes.
• Serve with Dipping Sauces: Salsa, chimichurri, or a creamy cilantro sauce bring extra zest alongside your empanadas.

How to Serve Beef and Cheese Empanadas

Garnishes

Fresh chopped cilantro, a sprinkle of finely diced green onions, or a light dusting of smoked paprika add vibrant color and an extra layer of flavor that brightens the beef and cheese filling.

Side Dishes

Pair your empanadas with a fresh, crisp salad or simple rice and beans to create a well-rounded meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange empanadas on a wooden serving board with small bowls of dipping sauces and fresh lime wedges for a festive, inviting presentation perfect for entertaining guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover beef and cheese empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat to enjoy them nearly as fresh as when first baked.

Freezing

For convenience, freeze unbaked empanadas on a lined tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. This ensures you can bake fresh empanadas anytime with minimal effort.

Reheating

Reheat empanadas in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crisp, avoiding microwave reheating to retain their flaky texture.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked beef for the filling?

Yes, you can use leftover cooked beef—just crumble it and mix with the sautéed onions, spices, and cheese to create the filling.

What cheese works best in Beef and Cheese Empanadas?

Melting cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack are ideal because they create a gooey texture that pairs wonderfully with the beef.

Can I bake these empanadas instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking yields a crispy, golden crust while being a healthier alternative to frying, making it the preferred method for this recipe.

How do I prevent the dough from getting soggy?

Use lean meat, avoid overfilling, and ensure the filling is cooled before assembling to keep the dough crisp throughout baking.

Are these empanadas freezer-friendly?

Yes, both unbaked and baked empanadas freeze well. Just freeze uncooked for best texture and bake directly from frozen when ready.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm, crispy, cheesy Beef and Cheese Empanada. This recipe is a fantastic way to bring a little joy and comfort to your kitchen with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Once you try them, these empanadas will likely become a beloved fixture in your recipe collection, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring anytime you want something delicious and satisfying.

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