Beef and Cheese Empanadas are a delicious, handheld treat filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, spices, and melted cheese, all wrapped in a flaky, golden-brown dough. These empanadas are perfect for a cozy meal, a snack, or as an appetizer for a party or gathering. Whether you’re serving them for dinner or entertaining guests, they’re sure to be a hit.
The combination of the rich beef filling and the gooey, melted cheese inside a perfectly baked, flaky crust is irresistible. These empanadas are not only flavorful but also quite versatile—you can enjoy them on their own or serve them with a side of dipping sauce like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole. Once you try these homemade empanadas, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought versions!
Making these from scratch is easier than you might think, and the results are totally worth it. The dough is simple to prepare, and the beef filling can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, these Beef and Cheese Empanadas will impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Beef and Cheese Empanadas are a flavor-packed meal that combines a crispy, buttery crust with a savory, cheesy beef filling. The dough is incredibly easy to work with and results in a perfectly flaky and tender exterior that complements the hearty beef and cheese filling. The combination of cumin, smoked paprika, and other spices gives the filling a depth of flavor that is truly mouthwatering.
These empanadas are versatile and can be served for lunch, dinner, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. They’re also freezer-friendly, which makes them great for meal prep. You can freeze them before or after baking, allowing you to enjoy fresh, homemade empanadas whenever you want!
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
- Unsalted butter (chilled and cubed)
- Cold water
- Egg (for egg wash)
For the Filling:
- Olive oil
- Ground beef
- Small onion (finely chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Cumin
- Smoked paprika
- Oregano
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
Variations
This Beef and Cheese Empanadas recipe can easily be customized to fit different tastes and dietary preferences:
- Add Vegetables: Include finely chopped bell peppers, tomatoes, or spinach in the beef filling for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Make it Spicy: Add a chopped jalapeño or a teaspoon of chili powder to the filling to give it some heat.
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack, feta, or even pepper jack for a unique twist.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the chilled, cubed butter to the bowl and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, and stir until the dough begins to come together.
Once the dough is formed, knead it on a lightly floured surface until it is smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Add the cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper to the beef mixture. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool slightly. Once cooled, mix in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the dough from the fridge and divide it into small portions, about the size of a golf ball. Roll each portion into a ball, then roll it out on a floured surface into a thin circle, about 4-5 inches in diameter.
Spoon a generous amount of the beef and cheese filling into the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, and press the edges together to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative finish.
Step 4: Bake the Empanadas
Place the assembled empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with a beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and the dough is fully cooked.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the empanadas are out of the oven, let them cool slightly before serving. You can garnish them with fresh cilantro or serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes helps it hold together better and results in a flakier crust.
- Don’t overstuff the empanadas: Be sure not to overfill the dough, as this can cause the empanadas to burst open during baking.
- Seal the edges well: Make sure the edges are fully sealed to prevent the filling from spilling out while baking. Crimp the edges with a fork for a secure seal.
- Use a food processor: To make the dough faster, you can use a food processor to combine the flour, salt, and butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Then, add the water and pulse until the dough comes together.
How to Serve
Beef and Cheese Empanadas can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of sides:
- Dipping sauces: Serve with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a tangy cilantro-lime sauce for added flavor.
- Side salad: Pair the empanadas with a light, fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Rice and beans: Serve the empanadas alongside seasoned rice and black beans for a hearty meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Freezing
Empanadas freeze well and make for a convenient meal later on. After assembling the empanadas, you can freeze them before baking. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. When ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw them—just place them in a preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Reheating
To reheat frozen empanadas, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and golden brown.
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-made empanada dough?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use pre-made empanada dough. Just follow the instructions on the package for assembling and baking.
2. Can I make these empanadas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the empanadas in advance and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them before baking for later use.
3. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use ground chicken, turkey, or pork as a substitute for ground beef. Adjust the seasonings to your preference.
4. Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes, you can add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, olives, or corn to the beef filling for extra flavor and texture.
5. How do I know when the empanadas are done baking?
The empanadas are done when the dough is golden brown and crispy, usually after 20-25 minutes of baking.
6. Can I bake these empanadas instead of frying them?
Yes, this recipe is designed for baking, which makes it a healthier alternative to frying.
7. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can swap the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses for any type of cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Gouda.
8. Can I make these empanadas gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the dough gluten-free.
9. Can I freeze cooked empanadas?
Yes, cooked empanadas can be frozen. Let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat them in the oven when ready to serve.
10. Can I use store-bought filling instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked filling or store-bought seasoned meat filling to save time.
Conclusion
Beef and Cheese Empanadas are a delicious and comforting dish that brings together a perfect balance of flavors in each bite. With a buttery, flaky crust and a savory, cheesy filling, these empanadas are sure to be a favorite in your home. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just as a treat, they’re easy to make and full of flavor. Try them today and enjoy a homemade meal that everyone will love!
Print
Beef and Cheese Empanadas Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 empanadas 1x
Description
Golden, crispy empanadas filled with a savory ground beef mixture and melty cheese. The perfect handheld treat for lunch, dinner, or as an appetizer. These empanadas are a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- ¾ cup cold water
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
For the Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
- Cut the chilled butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the cold water, mixing until a dough forms. You may need to adjust the amount of water slightly to achieve the right consistency.
- Once the dough comes together, form it into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill.
- Make the Filling:
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef, and sauté until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until well combined. Set aside.
- Assemble the Empanadas:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass (about 4 inches in diameter) to cut out circles of dough.
- Place a spoonful of the beef and cheese filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together with a fork to seal.
- Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake the Empanadas:
- Arrange the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- If you’d prefer, you can also fry the empanadas in hot oil for a crispier texture, frying each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling, such as olives, hard-boiled eggs, or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- For a spicier version, you can add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American