Easy Beef and Cheese Empanadas to Try Now

If you’re craving a delicious, savory snack that’s easy to make and irresistibly flavorful, look no further than these Beef and Cheese Empanadas. Perfectly golden on the outside with a rich, cheesy, and meaty filling, this recipe is your gateway to satisfying those comfort food cravings. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or want a quick homemade treat, these empanadas bring warm, bold flavors wrapped into a flaky, comforting pastry every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples so you can whip up this dish anytime without fuss.
• Flavor Combination: Juicy beef paired with melty cheese creates a comforting yet exciting taste.
• Perfect Snack or Meal: Ideal for appetizers, lunchboxes, or dinner sides, making it super versatile.
• Great for Beginners: Easy-to-follow steps make this recipe approachable for all cooking skill levels.
• Customizable: You can adjust fillings, spices, and cheeses to match your personal style.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe focuses on simplicity and balanced flavors—each ingredient plays a critical role in creating the perfect filling and dough. From the beef’s savory richness to the cheese’s gooey texture, every component enhances the overall experience.

• Ground beef: Choose lean but flavorful beef for a juicy, tender filling.
• Shredded cheese: Cheddar or mozzarella work well for creamy, melty goodness inside.
• Onion: Adds sweet and savory depth when sautéed until soft.
• Garlic: Brings aromatic warmth to the beef mixture.
• Empanada dough or pie crust: Use store-bought for convenience or homemade for extra flakiness.
• Spices: Cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper help build a perfectly seasoned filling.
• Egg wash: A beaten egg brushed on top for a shiny, golden crust.

Variations for Beef and Cheese Empanadas

Feel free to get creative with this classic by tweaking ingredients or trying new twists—each one totally easy to personalize based on what you love or have at hand.

• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute beef for seasoned mushrooms or black beans while keeping the cheese for richness.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or even queso fresco for unique flavors.
• Herbs Addition: Incorporate fresh cilantro or parsley to brighten up the filling.
• Sweet and Savory: Toss in sautéed bell peppers and a hint of smoked paprika to add complexity.

How to Make Beef and Cheese Empanadas

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and sauté the chopped onions and garlic until translucent and fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until fully browned. Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper while stirring everything together. Once cooked, remove from heat and mix in your shredded cheese so it starts to melt within the warm filling.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

If using store-bought dough, turn it onto a floured surface and roll out slightly to even thickness. If homemade, ensure it’s chilled and pliable. Cut out circles roughly 4 to 6 inches in diameter, depending on your preferred empanada size. These will serve as the base to hold your flavorful filling.

Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas

Place a generous tablespoon or two of the beef and cheese filling onto the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill to avoid bursting during baking. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges together firmly, then crimp with a fork to seal completely.

Step 4: Egg Wash and Bake

Place the empanadas on a lined baking sheet and brush their tops with beaten egg for that signature golden shine. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burning your mouth with the hot filling.

Pro Tips for Making Beef and Cheese Empanadas

• Drain Excess Fat: After browning beef, drain to prevent soggy empanadas.
• Don’t Overfill: Use moderate filling amounts to keep the dough from tearing.
• Seal Well: Use water or egg wash on edges before crimping to avoid leaks.
• Use Cold Dough: Keep dough chilled until assembly for easy handling and flakier crust.
• Rest After Baking: Give empanadas a few minutes to set so the filling firms up slightly.

How to Serve Beef and Cheese Empanadas

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes elevate your empanadas instantly. Sprinkle chopped cilantro, drizzle tangy chimichurri sauce, or add a dollop of sour cream for creamy contrast against the savory filling.

Side Dishes

Pair these with a crisp green salad or a black bean and corn salad for refreshing textures, or choose Spanish rice to complement the bold beef and cheese flavor profile as a hearty side.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve empanadas on a rustic wooden platter lined with parchment paper for a casual vibe, or arrange them with colorful dips in small ramekins for a party-ready appetizer spread sure to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooked empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain crispiness, reheat in an oven or air fryer rather than microwave to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

Freeze uncooked empanadas individually on a baking sheet before transferring to freezer bags. This way, you can bake fresh empanadas straight from the freezer anytime you want.

Reheating

Reheat baked empanadas in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes or until warmed through and crisp. This method preserves that delightful outer crunch and melty filling perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use other meats instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground chicken, pork, or turkey also work wonderfully with cheese in empanadas, offering tasty alternatives to traditional beef.

Is it possible to make the dough from scratch?

Yes! Many homemade empanada dough recipes use flour, butter, salt, and water, creating a tender and flaky crust that complements the filling beautifully.

How do I prevent the empanadas from leaking?

Make sure to seal the edges tightly with water or egg wash before crimping, and avoid overfilling to minimize leakage during baking.

Can these be baked instead of fried?

Definitely! Baking gives a healthier, less greasy option while still achieving a golden, crispy exterior that’s just as satisfying.

What’s a good dipping sauce for these empanadas?

Chimichurri, salsa verde, or a simple garlic aioli all pair beautifully, enhancing the beef and cheese flavors with complementary tangy and herbal notes.

Final Thoughts

If you love a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a cozy meal that hits all the savory notes, Beef and Cheese Empanadas are your go-to. Quick to make, full of flavor, and wonderfully customizable, they’re a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to time and time again. So roll up your sleeves, gather those simple ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bite of pure comfort and joy!

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