If you’re craving a savory, hand-held meal that’s bursting with flavor, Beef and Cheese Empanadas are the answer. Imagine crispy, golden dough wrapped around a deliciously seasoned ground beef filling, all perfectly balanced with melted cheese. Whether you’re hosting a game day, preparing a weeknight dinner, or just looking for a comforting snack, these empanadas will surely hit the spot.
Empanadas have long been a staple in Latin American cuisine, with countless variations across different regions. But one of the most popular and crowd-pleasing versions is the classic Beef and Cheese Empanada. The combination of seasoned beef and gooey cheese wrapped in a flaky pastry is nothing short of mouthwatering. The best part? You can easily customize this recipe to suit your dietary preferences, making it a versatile addition to your recipe arsenal.
What Are Empanadas? A Quick Background
Empanadas, derived from the Spanish word empanar meaning “to wrap or coat in bread,” are turnovers typically filled with meat, vegetables, or cheese. While the dish has roots in Spain, it has evolved in various ways across Latin America, with each country adding its unique twist. In the U.S., especially in regions with large Hispanic communities, Beef and Cheese Empanadas are a favorite.
These delightful pockets of flavor are typically either baked or fried, making them incredibly versatile. The crispy exterior and savory filling make them a perfect finger food or snack. And, let’s be honest, who can resist the melty cheese paired with perfectly seasoned beef?
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Beef and Cheese Empanadas
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
These **Beef and Cheese Empanadas** are filled with a delicious mix of seasoned ground beef and melted cheese, wrapped in golden, flaky dough. Whether baked or fried, they are perfect for any occasion and sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix)
- 1 package empanada dough discs
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash, optional)
- Oil for frying or non-stick spray for baking
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Prepare empanada dough discs and place a spoonful of beef mixture on each disc.
- Sprinkle cheese on top of the beef and fold the dough over, sealing the edges by pressing with a fork.
- For baking, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20–25 minutes. For frying, heat oil and fry for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- For a healthier option, bake the empanadas instead of frying.
- You can freeze uncooked empanadas for later use. Freeze on a tray before storing in a bag.
- For extra flavor, add jalapeños or bell peppers to the filling.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack, Appetizer
- Method: Baked, Fried
- Cuisine: Latin American
Key Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these irresistible Beef and Cheese Empanadas, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s a list of what you’ll need to gather:
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1 lb ground beef (lean is ideal)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp cumin
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tsp dried oregano
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix)
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1 package empanada dough discs (or you can make your own dough if you prefer)
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1 egg, beaten (for egg wash, optional)
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Oil for frying or non-stick spray for baking
For those of you with a more adventurous palate, feel free to add in jalapeños or bell peppers for an extra layer of flavor. These ingredients will create a deliciously seasoned filling that pairs perfectly with the cheese, creating a rich and satisfying bite.
Step-by-Step Preparation & Cooking Method
Prepare the Beef Filling
The key to Beef and Cheese Empanadas is the savory, flavorful filling. Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat.
Add the finely chopped onion and garlic to the beef. Cook for a few minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Then, stir in the cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. These spices will bring a warm, savory flavor to your filling. Let everything simmer for another 5 minutes to ensure all the flavors meld together.
Assemble the Empanadas
Once the filling is ready, it’s time to assemble your empanadas. Lay out the empanada dough discs on a clean surface. Place a generous spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each disc, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Don’t overstuff them – you want them to close properly.
Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, and press the edges to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges or twist the dough for a more decorative look. This step is essential to keep all the filling inside while cooking.
Cook the Empanadas
You have two options when it comes to cooking Beef and Cheese Empanadas: baking or frying.
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For baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then brush them with the beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crisp.
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For frying: Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the empanadas and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
Both methods yield delicious results, but baking is a healthier option while frying gives them that irresistible crunch.
Dietary Variations & Adaptations
Not everyone follows the same diet, but don’t worry – you can easily adapt this Beef and Cheese Empanadas recipe to suit various dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas:
Gluten-Free Empanadas
If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can substitute the regular empanada dough with gluten-free dough. Many grocery stores now offer pre-made gluten-free empanada discs, which are a great time-saver. Be sure to check the packaging to ensure it’s certified gluten-free.
Vegan Empanadas
For a vegan version of Beef and Cheese Empanadas, replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils for a hearty filling. Instead of cheese, use a dairy-free cheese substitute, or you can skip the cheese altogether and load up the filling with extra vegetables and spices. Don’t forget to use a vegan-friendly dough.
Low-Calorie / Low-Fat Empanadas
If you’re watching your calorie intake, you can make a few adjustments. Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to reduce fat content. For a lighter version, bake the empanadas instead of frying them, and reduce the amount of cheese used.
Halal or Kosher Empanadas
For a Halal or Kosher version, make sure to source beef from a Halal- or Kosher-certified butcher. Additionally, ensure that the dough doesn’t contain any non-compliant ingredients, like lard or pork fat.
Serving, Storage & Reheating Tips
Beef and Cheese Empanadas are incredibly versatile. Serve them as an appetizer, a party snack, or even as a main dish with a side of salsa or guacamole. You can even pair them with a light salad or rice for a full meal.
If you have leftovers (although that’s unlikely!), store your empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. To reheat, bake them at 350°F for about 10 minutes or heat them in an air fryer for a couple of minutes to bring back that crispy texture.
If you want to prepare them in advance, empanadas freeze beautifully. Freeze them before baking or frying, and when you’re ready to eat, just bake or fry them straight from the freezer. They’ll be just as delicious as when they were freshly made.
Beef and Cheese Empanadas are not only delicious but also incredibly customizable. Whether you’re baking or frying, using beef or going for a plant-based filling, these empanadas are sure to satisfy your cravings. Perfect for any occasion, they bring a taste of Latin America right to your table with minimal effort. Enjoy!
FAQ
How do you make empanadas from scratch?
To make empanadas from scratch, you need to prepare the dough, which can be made with flour, butter, salt, and water. Once your dough is ready, roll it out into discs. Then, prepare your filling, whether it’s beef and cheese or a different variety. Add the filling to the dough, fold, and seal the edges before baking or frying until golden brown.
Can you freeze Beef and Cheese Empanadas?
Yes, you can freeze Beef and Cheese Empanadas! It’s best to freeze them before baking or frying. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake or fry them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What cheese is best for Beef and Cheese Empanadas?
For the best Beef and Cheese Empanadas, go with cheeses that melt well, like Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or Colby Jack. These cheeses create a creamy, gooey filling that pairs perfectly with the seasoned beef. You can mix cheeses for a more complex flavor, or use a mild cheese for a lighter taste.
Can I make these empanadas gluten-free?
Yes, you can make Beef and Cheese Empanadas gluten-free by using gluten-free empanada dough. Many stores offer gluten-free dough options, or you can make your own. Just ensure all your filling ingredients, like the beef and cheese, are also gluten-free, and you’ll have a tasty, safe alternative.
Can I use other meats for the filling?
Absolutely! While beef is a classic choice for empanadas, you can use other meats like chicken, turkey, or even pork. You can also try a meatless version using plant-based crumbles or lentils for a hearty filling that’s perfect for vegetarians or those on a plant-based diet.
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