There is nothing quite like biting into warm, golden pockets filled with a savory blend of seasoned meat and melted cheese, which is exactly why the Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites. These delightful empanadas combine the rich, comforting flavors of spiced ground beef with gooey cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, all encased in a perfectly flaky dough. Whether you’re making them for a casual family dinner, a party appetizer, or a special treat, these empanadas are sure to bring smiles and satisfy cravings with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe lies in its few, simple ingredients that each play an essential role in crafting the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the aromatic spices that give the filling its depth, to the creamy cheese that melts beautifully, every component is important for the final delicious outcome.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity note and helps to sauté the vegetables and beef evenly.
- Ground beef: The hearty, savory base that makes these empanadas truly satisfying.
- Chopped onion: Provides a natural sweetness and tenderness after cooking.
- Minced garlic: Lends a fragrant, warm flavor that complements the beef.
- Ground cumin: Introduces a smoky earthiness essential for authentic taste.
- Smoked paprika: Brings a slight smoky and sweet heat that brightens up the filling.
- Chili powder: Adds a gentle kick without overpowering the other flavors.
- Salt and black pepper: Season perfectly to enhance all the tastes.
- Tomato sauce: Gives moisture and a subtle tang that binds the filling together.
- Chopped fresh cilantro (optional): Adds a fresh, herbaceous touch to balance richness.
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese: Melts into a creamy, luscious center that contrasts wonderfully with the beef.
- Empanada dough discs: The flaky, golden casing that holds everything beautifully.
- Beaten egg: For brushing on top to achieve that irresistible golden crust.
How to Make Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by warming olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. To release the sweet aroma and mellow flavors, cook the chopped onion until soft. Adding minced garlic next infuses the base with a rich aroma. Once fragrant, introduce the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks to brown evenly. This is the heart of your filling, so take your time to ensure it’s cooked through but still moist.
Step 2: Season the Meat
Once the beef is nicely browned, stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. These spices transform simple ground beef into a beautifully savory and slightly smoky filling. Adding the tomato sauce helps create a moist, cohesive mixture while simmering gently allows the flavors to meld perfectly.
Step 3: Combine with Cheese and Herbs
Off the heat, sprinkle chopped cilantro into the beef mixture if you like a herby brightness. Next, fold in the shredded cheese, which will melt slightly from the warm filling and create that indulgently gooey center that makes these empanadas so irresistible. Allow the mixture to cool just enough to handle for the next step.
Step 4: Assemble the Empanadas
Take each empanada dough disc and place a generous spoonful of the beef and cheese filling in the center. Fold the disc over into a half-moon shape, pressing the edges firmly to seal. Use a fork to crimp around the edges, ensuring no filling escapes during baking, and giving a charming decorative touch. Glaze each empanada with beaten egg, which guarantees a golden, glossy finish once baked.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet and pop them into a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until the dough is delightfully golden and crispy. Let them cool a bit before serving, so the melted cheese inside isn’t too hot but still decadently melty.
How to Serve Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or finely chopped green onions on top can add brightness and a pop of color. For those who love a little extra zing, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of tangy salsa verde complements the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
These empanadas pair wonderfully with fresh, crisp salads or vibrant slaws that provide some refreshing crunch. Roasted vegetables or a light avocado salad are also fantastic companions that add contrast without overpowering the main event.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces like chimichurri, spicy tomato salsa, or creamy guacamole to create an inviting, tapas-style spread perfect for entertaining or casual family meals.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover empanadas are fantastic for next-day lunches or snacks. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze these empanadas before baking by arranging them on a tray to freeze individually and then transferring them to a sealed freezer bag. This makes for an easy-to-bake anytime meal—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time from frozen and enjoy fresh-tasting empanadas whenever you want.
Reheating
For best results, reheat empanadas in an oven or toaster oven until warmed through and crisp again. Microwaving is possible but may result in a soft crust, so the oven method really preserves that golden crunch.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes a leaner option and will still taste great with the same spices and cheese. Just make sure to cook the filling thoroughly and adjust seasonings if you like.
What type of cheese works best for these empanadas?
Cheddar and Monterey Jack are classics because they melt well and offer a creamy texture without overpowering the filling. You can also try a mild mozzarella or a Mexican cheese blend for variety.
Is it okay to use store-bought empanada dough?
Yes! Store-bought empanada dough discs save time and work perfectly for this recipe, delivering that flaky crust with ease. If you prefer, homemade dough adds a personal touch but isn’t necessary.
Can I make these empanadas spicy?
Definitely. To amp up the heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture. Just be mindful of balancing the flavors so the spiciness enhances rather than overwhelms.
How do I prevent the empanadas from getting soggy?
Be careful not to overfill the empanadas, and make sure the filling isn’t too wet before assembling. Also, brushing with egg wash and baking on a parchment-lined tray in a hot oven helps achieve that crisp, golden crust.
Final Thoughts
There’s a special kind of joy that comes from making and sharing a homemade Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe. These golden pockets of savory happiness are easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests, making them a must-try recipe to have in your cooking arsenal. Give them a go and watch how quickly they become a beloved favorite in your home too!
Print
Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 10 empanadas
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
These Beef & Cheese Empanadas are a delicious Latin American appetizer featuring a savory blend of spiced ground beef, melted cheese, and a flaky baked dough. Perfectly seasoned and baked to a golden brown, these empanadas make a great snack or party dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Beef Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
Dough & Topping
- 1 package (14 oz) empanada dough discs (or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its fragrance.
- Brown the beef: Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks to ensure even cooking. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Season the filling: Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and tomato sauce. Let the mixture simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly and flavors meld together.
- Finish the filling: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in chopped cilantro if using, and the shredded cheese. Let the filling cool slightly to avoid melting the dough.
- Assemble the empanadas: Place a spoonful of the beef and cheese mixture onto the center of each empanada dough disc. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges together firmly using a fork to seal well.
- Apply the egg wash: Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg. This will give a shiny, golden finish when baked.
- Bake: Place the empanadas on the lined baking sheet. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Cool and serve: Let the empanadas cool slightly before serving so the filling sets and you avoid burns.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if preferred.
- Empanadas can be frozen before baking for a convenient meal option later; bake a few extra minutes if baking from frozen.
- Chopped fresh cilantro is optional but adds a nice fresh flavor.
- Use a fork to seal edges well to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
