Easy Beef and Cheese Empanadas

Beef and Cheese Empanadas: A Flavorful and Easy-to-Make Treat

If you’re looking for a delicious, handheld snack or meal that’s packed with flavor, Beef and Cheese Empanadas are the perfect choice. These golden, flaky pastries are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, melted cheese, and spices, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a quick dinner, or simply craving something tasty, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Let’s walk through the steps together, using simple phrases and plenty of transition words to make it easy to follow.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to love Beef and Cheese Empanadas. First, they’re incredibly versatile. You can serve them as an appetizer, snack, or even a main dish. Second, they’re easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery. Third, they’re customizable. You can adjust the filling to suit your taste, adding more cheese, spices, or even vegetables. Finally, they’re perfect for sharing. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, these empanadas are sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Beef and Cheese Empanadas, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Dough:

Flour: Use 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour for the dough.
Salt: Add ½ teaspoon of salt to enhance the flavor.
Butter: Use ½ cup of cold, unsalted butter, cut into small cubes.
Egg: One egg acts as a binder, helping to hold the dough together and give it structure.
Water: Use ¼ to ½ cup of ice-cold water to bring the dough together.

For the Filling:

Ground Beef: Use 1 pound of ground beef for the filling.
Onion: One small onion, finely chopped, adds sweetness and depth.
Garlic: Use 2 cloves of minced garlic for a savory flavor.
Bell Pepper: One small bell pepper, finely chopped, adds color and crunch.
Tomato Paste: Use 2 tablespoons of tomato paste for richness.
Spices: Add 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and ½ teaspoon of chili powder for flavor.
Cheese: Use 1 cup of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella.
Salt and Pepper: Add salt and pepper to the filling according to your taste preferences, enhancing the overall flavor.

For Assembly:

Egg Wash: Use 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water to brush the empanadas before baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

With all your ingredients prepared and ready to go, it’s time to start cooking! Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Beef and Cheese Empanadas.

Step 1: Make the Dough

Start by making the dough. Add the flour and salt to a spacious mixing bowl, then whisk them together until fully blended. Incorporate cold, cubed butter and mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. Next, add the egg and stir until the mixture is fully combined. Gradually add the ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix. Once the dough forms a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is chilling, prepare the filling. Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef to it. Cook the beef until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. After the beef has browned, carefully discard surplus grease from the pan. Next, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft. Then, add the tomato paste, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to combine, then cook for another 2-3 minutes. After that, remove the skillet from the heat and let the filling cool slightly. Stir in the shredded cheese.

Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas

After the dough has thoroughly chilled, transfer it from the refrigerator to your workspace. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about ⅛-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a bowl to cut out circles of dough, about 5-6 inches in diameter. Spoon a portion of the seasoned beef and cheese mixture onto the center of each dough round, then fold and crimp the edges to enclose the filling into a crescent shape. Then, use a fork to press and seal the edges tightly.

Step 4: Bake the Empanadas

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the prepared empanadas on a baking sheet covered with parchment paper. Lightly brush the tops with egg wash to create a golden, glossy appearance. Bake them for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until they become golden brown and delightfully crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the empanadas are fully baked, carefully remove them from the oven and allow them to rest briefly before serving. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. Enjoy!

Keys to Perfect Empanadas

Elevate your empanada game with these expert suggestions:

Chill for Flakiness: Refrigerate the dough until firm to ensure easy handling and a crisp, layered texture. If it softens while shaping, chill again briefly.
Mind the Portions: Use a measured amount of filling to avoid messy leaks and ensure secure sealing.
Lock in the Goodness: Press edges firmly or use a fork to crimp, creating a tight seal to contain the filling during baking.
Get Creative: Swap ingredients like adding spinach, chorizo, or smoked gouda for personalized flavor twists.

Creative Twists on the Classic

Put your spin on this versatile recipe with these ideas:

Veggie Boost: Stir in roasted zucchini, caramelized onions, or diced mushrooms for added depth.
Protein Swap: Try shredded chicken, seasoned lentils, or plant-based crumbles as filling alternatives.
Heat It Up: Mix in chipotle peppers, chili flakes, or a drizzle of spicy crema for bold flavor.
Cheese Blend: Combine mozzarella for meltiness with cotija for a salty finish.

Perfect Pairings

Complement your empanadas with these serving ideas:

Dips & Sauces: Offer chimichurri, cilantro-lime crema, or smoky chipotle mayo for dipping.
Fresh Sides: Serve with a citrusy slaw, charred elote (Mexican street corn), or quinoa salad.
Light Bites: Balance richness with a cucumber-radish salad or tangy pickled vegetables.

Storing for Freshness

Preserve leftovers by cooling empanadas completely, then storing in airtight containers:
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Freezer: Freeze unbaked empanadas on a tray before transferring to bags; bake from frozen (add 5-7 minutes).
Reheating: Revive crispiness in an air fryer (3-4 minutes at 375°F) or oven (10 minutes at 350°F).

Pro Hacks

Streamline your process with these shortcuts:

Prep Ahead: Make dough and filling a day in advance; assemble just before baking.
Batch Freeze: Prepare a double batch and freeze extras for effortless future meals.
Dough Shortcut: Opt for pre-made pie crust or biscuit dough for quicker assembly.

Nutrition Highlights

This dish packs both flavor and nutrients:

Protein Power: Ground beef supports muscle repair, while cheese adds calcium for bone health.
Veggie Vitamins: Bell peppers and garlic deliver immunity-boosting vitamins and antioxidants.
Customizable Balance: Adjust fillings for lower fat (lean meats) or added fiber (whole-grain dough).

Meal Prep Magic

Turn empanadas into a meal-prep staple:

Freezer-Friendly: Label frozen batches with dates for easy grab-and-go dinners.
Portion Control: Pre-package 1-2 empanadas with veggie sticks for balanced lunches.
Theme Nights: Pair with Mexican rice, black beans, or grilled veggies for themed dinners.

Common Questions

Can I air-fry these?
Yes! Air-fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes for a crispy, golden finish.
How do I prevent soggy bottoms?
Avoid overfilling and bake on a preheated sheet or parchment paper.
Can I make mini versions?
Use a smaller cutter for bite-sized appetizers—adjust baking time to 12-15 minutes.

Final Touch

Beef and Cheese Empanadas are a crowd-pleasing fusion of flavor and convenience. Perfect for gatherings, snacks, or meal prep, their adaptability ensures endless culinary creativity. With a golden crust and hearty filling, they’re a timeless treat that invites experimentation. Whip up a batch, tweak to your taste, and savor every bite!