Beef and Cheese Empanadas

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Flavorful Filling: The combination of spiced ground beef and gooey melted cheese creates a mouthwatering experience.
  • Versatile Dish: Suitable for various occasions, from casual snacks to party appetizers or even a hearty meal.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Empanadas can be prepared in advance and frozen, allowing for quick and convenient future meals.
  • Customizable: Easily adapt the filling to include your favorite ingredients or adjust the spices to suit your taste.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup green olives, chopped (optional)
  • ½ cup raisins (optional, for a sweet and savory flavor)
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
  • 2½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
  • ½ cup cold water (adjust as needed)
  • 1 egg (for brushing)

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

Directions

  1. Prepare the Filling:
    • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened and fragrant.
    • Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through.
    • For added flavor, mix in the chopped green olives and raisins, if using. Stir to combine, then remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
    • Once cooled, stir in the shredded cheese until well incorporated.
  2. Make the Dough:
    • In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and work them into the flour using your hands or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
    • Gradually add the cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. If necessary, add a little more water until the dough is smooth and pliable.
    • Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Assemble the Empanadas:
    • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a round cutter or a small bowl, cut the dough into circles approximately 4 inches in diameter.
    • Place a spoonful of the beef and cheese filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, then pinch the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
  4. Bake the Empanadas:
    • Arrange the filled empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with a beaten egg to achieve a golden, glossy finish.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.
  5. Serve:
    • Allow the empanadas to cool for a few minutes before serving. They pair well with salsa, guacamole, or a tangy dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: This recipe yields approximately 10 empanadas.
  • Preparation Time: 45 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy version.
  • Vegetable Additions: Incorporate diced bell peppers, corn, or black beans into the filling for extra texture and flavor.
  • Alternative Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or queso fresco to change the flavor profile.
  • Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley to the filling for a fresh, aromatic touch.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: To freeze, place assembled (but unbaked) empanadas on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
  • Reheating: Reheat baked empanadas in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps maintain their crispy texture.Print
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    Beef and Cheese Empanadas

    Beef and Cheese Empanadas


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    • Author: Julia
    • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
    • Yield: 10 empanadas
    • Diet: Gluten Free

    Description

    Beef and Cheese Empanadas are a Latin American-inspired delight featuring a spiced ground beef and melted cheese filling, all wrapped in a flaky, golden-brown crust. Perfect as appetizers, snacks, or a satisfying meal, these hand-held pastries are bursting with flavor and customizable for any occasion.


    Ingredients

    For the Filling:

    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 pound ground beef
    • 1 small onion, finely chopped
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
    • 1 teaspoon paprika
    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
    • ½ cup green olives, chopped (optional)
    • ½ cup raisins (optional, for sweet and savory flavor)
    • ½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

    For the Dough:

    • 2½ cups all-purpose flour
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
    • ½ cup cold water (adjust as needed)
    • 1 egg (for brushing)

    Instructions

    1. Prepare the Filling:
      • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
      • Add ground beef, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through.
      • Stir in green olives and raisins, if using. Let cool, then mix in shredded cheese.
    2. Make the Dough:
      • In a bowl, combine flour and salt. Work in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
      • Gradually add cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5 minutes.
      • Wrap dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
    3. Assemble the Empanadas:
      • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out chilled dough to 1/8-inch thickness.
      • Cut dough into 4-inch circles. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle.
      • Fold dough over and seal edges by crimping with a fork.
    4. Bake the Empanadas:
      • Place empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush tops with beaten egg.
      • Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.
    5. Serve:
      • Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair with salsa, guacamole, or dipping sauce.

    Notes

    • To freeze, assemble but do not bake. Bake frozen empanadas, adding extra baking time.
    • Experiment with different cheeses or add diced veggies like corn or bell peppers.
    • Prep Time: 45 minutes
    • Cook Time: 25 minutes
    • Category: Appetizer, Snack, Main Course
    • Method: Baking
    • Cuisine: Latin American
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