Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Beef and Cheese Empanadas are packed with flavor in every bite. The ground beef filling, combined with aromatic spices and melted cheese, creates a deliciously savory core inside a perfectly crispy pastry. The empanadas are easy to make, and whether you use store-bought or homemade dough, they’re sure to turn out golden and irresistible. The cilantro garnish (optional) adds a burst of fresh flavor, making these empanadas a great option for any meal or gathering.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (optional)
1 package empanada dough (store-bought or homemade)
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is softened.
Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to blend with the beef.
Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the beef mixture to cool slightly. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped cilantro (if using).
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the empanada dough on a flat surface. Using a round cutter or the top of a glass, cut out circles of dough (about 4-5 inches in diameter).
Place a spoonful of the beef and cheese mixture in the center of each dough circle.
Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges if desired.
Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish.
Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Allow the empanadas to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 10-12 empanadas
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Different filling: You can replace the ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or even black beans for a vegetarian option.
Spicy version: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Cheese variety: Try using mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Veggie-filled empanadas: Add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef filling for extra texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the empanadas in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are warmed through and crispy again. You can also microwave them, but they may lose some of their crispiness.

FAQs

Can I make the dough from scratch?

Yes, you can make your own empanada dough if you prefer. There are many recipes online that provide a simple method for making dough at home, or you can opt for a more traditional recipe with butter or lard for a flakier texture.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use any cheese you like! Cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack all melt well and would work great in this recipe.

Can I make these empanadas ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the empanadas ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. Alternatively, you can freeze them before baking. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I make these empanadas in advance and freeze them?

Yes, these empanadas freeze beautifully. After assembling, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.

How do I know when the empanadas are fully cooked?

The empanadas are done when the dough is golden brown and crispy, and the filling is heated through. You can check by carefully cutting one open to ensure the inside is fully cooked.

Can I fry the empanadas instead of baking them?

Yes, you can fry the empanadas for a golden and crispy finish. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pan to 350°F (175°C) and fry the empanadas for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.

Can I add more vegetables to the filling?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables such as chopped bell peppers, corn, or spinach to the beef mixture to create a more hearty and flavorful filling.

Can I make these empanadas with puff pastry?

Yes, puff pastry works well as an alternative to traditional empanada dough for a lighter, flakier texture. Just be sure to adjust the baking time as puff pastry may cook faster than regular dough.

What should I serve with these empanadas?

These empanadas pair well with a side of salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping. You could also serve them with a fresh salad or a simple tomato-based sauce for extra flavor.

How long will these empanadas last?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven to regain their crispy texture.

Conclusion

These Beef and Cheese Empanadas are a delicious and versatile dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. With a savory beef filling, melted cheese, and golden, flaky pastry, they’re perfect for any occasion, from a quick weeknight dinner to a fun party snack. Customize the filling to suit your tastes, and enjoy these empanadas with your favorite dipping sauces or a side salad. Whether you’re baking them or frying them, these empanadas will never disappoint!

Beef and Cheesy Empanadas

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Julia
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 10-12 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

These Beef and Cheese Empanadas are savory, flavorful pockets of ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and aromatic spices wrapped in crispy, golden pastry. Perfect for appetizers, snacks, or a quick meal, these empanadas are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Instructions

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is softened.
Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Remove the skillet from the heat and let the beef mixture cool slightly. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped cilantro (if using).
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the empanada dough and cut into 4-5 inch circles.
Spoon the beef and cheese mixture onto each dough circle.
Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. Crimp with a fork.
Brush with beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and crispy.
Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

You can swap ground beef for ground chicken, turkey, or black beans for a vegetarian option.

Add chopped jalapeños for a spicier version or use mozzarella or Monterey Jack for different cheese flavors.

Customize the filling by adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Latin American, Mexican