If you have been craving a snack that is both hearty and bursting with flavor, this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe is an absolute game-changer. These golden pockets of deliciousness combine savory, spiced ground beef with creamy melted cheddar, all wrapped in a tender, flaky crust that bakes to perfection. Whether you’re serving them at a party, family dinner, or just because, empanadas are a fun, satisfying bite that brings everyone together. Trust me, once you try this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe is a breeze thanks to a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that work harmoniously. Each component plays a vital role in building rich flavors, enticing textures, and a beautiful golden finish.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps sauté the aromatics perfectly.
- Ground beef: The hearty, savory star that makes these empanadas satisfying and filling.
- Onion: Provides sweetness and moisture, balancing the spices beautifully.
- Garlic: Brings a fragrant depth that makes every bite irresistible.
- Ground cumin: Offers a warm, earthy flavor to the meat mixture that’s classic in Latin cuisine.
- Paprika: Adds a mild smokiness and a lovely color to the filling.
- Chili powder: Gives a gentle kick that enlivens the taste without overpowering it.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all those vibrant flavors.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: The melty, gooey partner to the beef that brings creamy indulgence.
- Refrigerated pie crusts: Convenient and flaky, forming the perfect empanada shell.
- Egg (beaten): A simple egg wash to give the empanadas a shiny, golden crust that’s visually stunning.
How to Make Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Surface
The very first thing you want to do is preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this prevents sticking and makes cleanup a snap. Getting this ready upfront means your empanadas can go straight from prep to oven without delay, ensuring the freshest, flakiest crust.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics to Build the Flavor Base
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add your finely chopped onion. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, releasing its sweet aroma. Add the minced garlic next and cook for an additional minute — this quick sauté transforms simple ingredients into a flavor-packed foundation.
Step 3: Brown the Beef and Layer in Spices
Now, toss in the ground beef along with cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Brown the meat, breaking it into tiny crumbles as it cooks; this step ensures each forkful is perfectly seasoned and well-textured. Once browned, turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt gently into the warm beef for that irresistible gooeyness.
Step 4: Prepare the Dough Circles
Lightly flour your surface and roll out the refrigerated pie crusts. Cut them into 4-inch circles—the ideal size for these empanadas to hold enough filling but still be easy to handle and eat. This step is where your empanadas begin to take shape and look delightfully rustic.
Step 5: Fill and Fold the Empanadas
Spoon a generous portion of the beef and cheese mixture onto each dough circle. Carefully fold the dough over to form a half-moon, then press the edges firmly with a fork to seal in all that deliciousness. This seal ensures no filling escapes during baking and gives your empanadas their signature crimped edge.
Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash and Bake to Perfection
Place your empanadas on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Brush each one with the beaten egg to achieve that perfect golden-brown finish. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the crusts are puffed, flaky, and invitingly golden.
Step 7: Cool Slightly Before Serving
Once out of the oven, allow your empanadas to rest for a few minutes on a wire rack. This cooling brief moment firms up the crust so they hold together beautifully and are safe to eat without losing any filling—plus, it makes them easier to handle for serving.
How to Serve Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
Garnishes
Empanadas are great on their own, but a little garnish can elevate them even more. Fresh cilantro or parsley sprigs on the side add a bright, herbaceous punch. If you enjoy a little heat, a drizzle of salsa verde or a dollop of tangy sour cream creates a wonderful contrast to the savory filling.
Side Dishes
Round out your meal with sides that complement the rich flavors. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette brings refreshing balance, while traditional Latin-inspired sides like black beans or rice build a heartier spread. Roasted vegetables also pair beautifully by adding color and nutrients.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting, try arranging your Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe on a wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces—think chimichurri, guacamole, or spicy tomato salsa. For a playful twist, serve empanadas alongside a build-your-own toppings bar, letting guests customize their bites with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or pickled onions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover empanadas keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their texture, it’s best to reheat them in the oven or an air fryer instead of the microwave, so the crust stays crispy.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked empanadas by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freezing until solid. Then transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time and bake from frozen—no thawing needed!
Reheating
Reheat your Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through and crispy. This method revives the crust’s flaky texture and ensures the filling is nice and hot, just like fresh out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar melts beautifully and offers a nice sharpness, you can swap it with mozzarella for mild creaminess or pepper jack for a little extra spice. Just choose a cheese that melts well to keep the filling gooey and delicious.
Is there a vegetarian version of this empanada recipe?
Yes! Simply replace ground beef with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a medley of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Adding cheese and spices will keep that signature Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe flavor, just without the meat.
Can I make my own dough instead of using refrigerated pie crust?
Definitely! Homemade empanada dough brings extra freshness and can be tailored to your preferences. A simple dough made with flour, butter, salt, and water works wonders and can be rolled out just like pie crust for a tender, flaky texture.
How spicy are these empanadas?
The recipe includes chili powder for a mild warmth, but the spice level is gentle and approachable. You can easily adjust it up or down by adding more or less chili powder or incorporating fresh diced jalapeños if you want a bolder kick.
What dipping sauces go best with Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe?
Some classic picks include chimichurri for herby brightness, salsa roja for tang and heat, or even a creamy avocado dip to complement the rich filling. Don’t be afraid to get creative—empanadas are fantastic with a variety of dips!
Final Thoughts
Making this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe is one of those kitchen adventures that rewards you with fantastic results and happy smiles all around the table. The combination of melted cheddar and seasoned beef wrapped in golden, flaky dough is truly irresistible. I can’t wait for you to try it, share it, and make it a new favorite in your recipe collection—you’re going to love every bite!
Print
Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 empanadas
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American
Description
These Beef & Cheese Empanadas are a delicious, savory treat featuring seasoned ground beef and melted cheddar cheese wrapped in flaky pie crusts. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, they are baked to golden perfection for a crispy exterior and flavorful filling.
Ingredients
Beef Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Dough & Assembly
- 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the empanadas.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release their aroma.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet along with the ground cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is thoroughly browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and evenly combined.
- Prepare Dough: Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts on a floured surface and cut them into 4-inch circles using a cutter or a small bowl as a guide.
- Fill and Seal: Spoon a portion of the beef and cheese filling onto the center of each dough circle. Fold each circle in half to form a half-moon shape and press the edges together firmly using a fork to seal the empanadas.
- Egg Wash and Bake: Arrange the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg wash for a shiny, golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the empanadas are golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the empanadas to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving to avoid burning your mouth and to let the flavors set.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use spicy cheddar cheese.
- These empanadas can be frozen uncooked. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to baking time.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Make sure to seal the edges tightly to prevent filling from leaking out during baking.
