If you are looking for a warm, comforting snack that brings a burst of flavor and a delightful cheesy twist, this Cheesy Beef Empanadas Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. Imagine golden, crispy pockets stuffed with a savory blend of seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and a perfect balance of spices. These empanadas make a fantastic appetizer, snack, or even a quick weeknight meal that your family and friends will rave about. What’s better than a handheld treat that combines hearty beef filling with gooey cheese and a crunchy, flaky crust? Let’s dive into a recipe that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Cheesy Beef Empanadas Recipe plays a vital role, bringing together the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Whether it’s the savory ground beef, the aromatic spices, or the melty cheese, you’ll find each component straightforward yet essential.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and perfect sautéing base for the onions and beef.
- Half a small onion, finely chopped: Provides sweetness and moisture to balance the meatiness.
- Two cloves garlic, minced: Delivers an aromatic punch that elevates the entire filling.
- One pound ground beef: The hearty main star, bringing protein and a satisfying texture.
- Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Infuses a warm earthiness typical of Latin flavors.
- Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat and complexity that isn’t overwhelming.
- Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Gives a lovely smoky depth that enhances the beef.
- Salt (½ teaspoon) and black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
- Tomato sauce (½ cup): Adds moisture and a subtle tang to make the filling juicy.
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (½ cup): The cheesy element that turns these empanadas into irresistible pockets of melty goodness.
- Empanada dough discs (14 ounces): Or alternatively pie crust or puff pastry, these provide the crispy, flaky shell.
- One beaten egg: Used as an egg wash, it gives the empanadas that perfect golden glow once baked.
How to Make Cheesy Beef Empanadas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Softly sauté the finely chopped onion for 2 to 3 minutes until it starts to turn translucent and sweet. Toss in the minced garlic and cook it for just 30 seconds to awaken its aroma without burning. Now, add the ground beef and cook, stirring frequently, breaking it up into small crumbles until it’s evenly browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes.
Step 2: Season and Simmer
Now the fun really begins as you stir in ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. These spices are the secret heroes that bring depth and warmth to the filling. Pour in the tomato sauce and let it simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture thickens a bit. This step ensures your filling stays juicy but not watery. Remove from heat and let it cool just enough before mixing in your shredded cheese — this guarantees the cheese melts gently without getting greasy.
Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas
Take each empanada dough disc and spoon roughly 2 tablespoons of your beef and cheese filling right into the center. Fold the dough over to craft a half-moon shape, the classic empanada silhouette. Press the edges together firmly with a fork to seal in all that delicious filling, ensuring none escapes during baking. This step also creates a charming decorative edge that looks as good as it tastes.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Arrange your empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush each top with the beaten egg. This final touch turns the dough into a shiny, golden crust with an appealing crisp. Bake in your preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 to 25 minutes, or until your empanadas are beautifully golden and crisp. Let them cool for 5 minutes before digging in for the perfect temperature and texture.
How to Serve Cheesy Beef Empanadas Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing complements cheesy beef empanadas quite like fresh, vibrant garnishes. Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley on top to add a fresh, herby contrast that cuts through the richness. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of tangy salsa also increases the flavor dimension and keeps every bite exciting.
Side Dishes
Pair your empanadas with simple, colorful sides like a fresh avocado salad, black beans, or even a zesty rice dish. These sides bring brightness and balance, creating a satisfying and complete meal that feels both wholesome and festive.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gatherings, stack empanadas artfully on a platter or serve them alongside small bowls of guacamole, chimichurri, or spicy dipping sauces. Using mini empanada dough discs can make bite-sized treats perfect for snacking or appetizers, guaranteed to disappear quickly!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This short storage life keeps the crust from becoming soggy and the filling fresh and flavorful.
Freezing
Cheesy Beef Empanadas Recipe works wonderfully for freezing. Assemble the empanadas but skip the baking step and freeze them on a baking tray in a single layer. Once frozen solid, transfer to a resealable freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5 to 7 minutes to the baking time for perfect results.
Reheating
To bring your empanadas back to life, reheat them in a 350-degree oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, which can make the crust soft instead of delightfully flaky.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for this Cheesy Beef Empanadas Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar or Monterey Jack are classics, feel free to mix it up with mozzarella for extra stretchiness or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just choose a cheese that melts well.
Is it possible to make these empanadas vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a combination of sautéed mushrooms, black beans, or lentils for a delicious vegetarian version that still captures the hearty texture and flavor.
Can I make the dough from scratch instead of using pre-made discs?
Definitely. Homemade empanada dough adds a lovely touch, and recipes typically use flour, butter, water, and a pinch of salt. It’s easier than you might think and allows you to customize thickness and texture.
How spicy is this Cheesy Beef Empanadas Recipe?
The level of spice is mild and approachable, thanks to the balanced use of chili powder and cumin. If you prefer more heat, add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeño to the filling.
Can these be baked instead of fried?
This recipe is designed specifically for baking, resulting in a lighter, less oily empanada with a perfectly crispy crust. Baking also makes cleanup a breeze and creates even browning.
Final Thoughts
Making these Cheesy Beef Empanadas Recipe will quickly become one of your favorite kitchen adventures. They are simple to prepare, bursting with flavor, and impressively crowd-pleasing. Whether you serve them up for a family dinner, a party snack, or a special weekend treat, they deliver comfort and joy in every bite. So grab your skillet, unroll that dough, and get ready to fall in love with this delicious, cheesy twist on a beloved Latin classic!
Print
Cheesy Beef Empanadas Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 10 empanadas
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
These Cheesy Beef Empanadas are savory hand pies filled with spiced ground beef and melted cheese, baked to golden perfection. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, they combine a crispy, flaky crust with a flavorful, hearty filling that’s sure to satisfy any craving for Latin American comfort food.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
Dough
- 1 package (14 ounces) empanada dough discs (or pie crust or puff pastry)
Egg Wash
- 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and translucent. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its fragrance.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned thoroughly, about 6–8 minutes. Ensure no pink remains to fully cook the meat.
- Season and Simmer: Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to evenly coat the meat. Pour in the tomato sauce and let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes until it slightly thickens. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Add Cheese: Once the beef mixture has cooled a bit, stir in the shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, allowing it to melt and blend into the savory filling.
- Assemble Empanadas: Place about 2 tablespoons of the beef and cheese filling in the center of each dough disc. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and use a fork to press and seal the edges tightly, preventing the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash: Arrange the filled empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a beautiful golden and shiny finish once baked.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the empanadas are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Cool and Serve: Let the empanadas cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set slightly for the best eating experience.
Notes
- Serve these empanadas with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for extra flavor.
- You can freeze these empanadas before baking; simply bake them straight from frozen, adding an additional 5–7 minutes to the cooking time.
