If you have a craving for something warm, cheesy, and packed with savory goodness, this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe is about to become your new go-to. These golden pockets of joy combine perfectly seasoned ground beef with melty cheddar cheese, all wrapped in flaky pie crust that bakes to a crispy, buttery finish. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just want a comforting snack, these empanadas deliver mouthwatering flavor and a satisfying crunch in every bite. The balance of spices and the richness of the cheese make these empanadas irresistible from start to finish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create the perfect Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe, you only need a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in layering flavor, texture, and visual appeal to your final dish.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity note and helps soften the onions for a flavorful base.
- Ground beef: The hearty protein that’s seasoned and cooked to juicy perfection.
- Small onion, finely chopped: Brings sweetness and depth to the filling when sautéed.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Packs an aromatic punch that enhances the meat’s flavor.
- Ground cumin: Provides warm earthiness and a hint of smokiness.
- Paprika: Adds a mild peppery kick and vibrant color.
- Chili powder: Gives a gentle heat that balances the richness.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the full flavor of all ingredients.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Creates gooey pockets of creamy indulgence inside each empanada.
- Refrigerated pie crusts: The quick and easy dough that crisps up beautifully as it bakes.
- Beaten egg: Used for an egg wash that gives the empanadas a gorgeous golden sheen.
How to Make Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This setup ensures an even, golden bake without sticking, so your empanadas come out perfect every time.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent, releasing its natural sweetness. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant—this creates a flavorful foundation for the beef.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet along with the cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together as the beef cooks, breaking it apart to ensure it browns evenly. Once the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink, remove it from the heat. Immediately mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, letting its creamy richness melt into the warm beef mixture.
Step 4: Prepare the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the refrigerated pie crusts. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out 4-inch circles, which will serve as the perfect size for folding into empanadas that are easy to handle and full of filling.
Step 5: Assemble the Empanadas
Place a generous spoonful of the beef and cheese filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges down firmly using the tines of a fork to seal in the filling and create that classic empanada edge crimp.
Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash and Bake
Arrange the assembled empanadas on your prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops lightly with the beaten egg, which will help them develop a shiny, golden brown crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the empanadas are beautifully crisp and golden on top.
Step 7: Serve
Let the empanadas cool just enough to handle before serving. This short rest keeps the cheese melty yet avoids burning your mouth. These little pockets of joy are now ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the dining experience, garnish your Beef & Cheese Empanadas with fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or parsley. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of tangy chimichurri sauce can add a refreshing contrast to the savory filling and crispy pastry.
Side Dishes
Serve your empanadas alongside a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, or with a bowl of salsa or guacamole for dipping. The fresh, crisp textures balance out the richness perfectly and turn your snack into a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a party, arrange the empanadas on a wooden board with small bowls of various dips—think spicy salsas, creamy avocado crema, or zesty pico de gallo. This presentation invites guests to customize each bite and makes your Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe not just food but a fun, interactive experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover empanadas store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them chilled preserves the flavor and texture so you can enjoy them again without losing any of the deliciousness.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, assemble the empanadas but don’t bake them yet. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, making for a quick meal anytime you’re craving a Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe without the fuss.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the empanadas into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid the microwave to keep the crust flaky and prevent sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar adds a lovely sharpness and melts nicely, you can experiment with mozzarella for gooey stretchiness or pepper jack for a spicier kick. Just choose a cheese that melts well.
Is it possible to make these empanadas gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping the refrigerated pie crust with a gluten-free dough alternative, you can enjoy a gluten-free version. Just make sure the dough is sturdy enough to hold the filling and crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Definitely! The beef and cheese filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before assembling your empanadas for the best results.
What can I do if my empanadas leak during baking?
Make sure to seal the edges very well with a fork and avoid overfilling them. If needed, a light brush of water or egg wash on the edges before sealing helps them stick better and reduces leaking during baking.
Can I bake these empanadas instead of frying?
This Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe is specifically designed for baking, giving you a lighter and crispier empanada without the added oil of frying. Baking also makes clean-up easier!
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe, it’s going to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen. The combination of seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and flaky pie crust is pure comfort food magic. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, these empanadas bring joy with every bite. So roll up your sleeves, whip up a batch, and enjoy the deliciousness that only homemade empanadas can offer!
Print
Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American
Description
These Beef & Cheese Empanadas are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack featuring a savory ground beef filling seasoned with cumin, paprika, and chili powder, combined with melted cheddar cheese and encased in flaky pie crust, baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
For the 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
For the Dough & Topping
- 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook the Filling: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its aroma.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet along with ground cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the beef until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon to create small crumbles. Once cooked, remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the mixture.
- Prepare the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the refrigerated pie crusts to smooth them out. Using a 4-inch round cutter or a glass, cut the dough into circles suitable for empanadas.
- Assemble the Empanadas: Spoon a generous amount of the beef and cheese mixture onto the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges firmly with a fork to seal the empanadas and prevent filling leakage during baking.
- Brush with Egg Wash and Bake: Place the sealed empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a beautiful golden color when baked. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.
- Serve: Remove the empanadas from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth and to allow the filling to set.
Notes
- Ensure the beef is fully cooked and well seasoned for best flavor.
- To prevent soggy bottoms, use a parchment-lined baking sheet or a baking stone.
- These empanadas can be customized with additional ingredients like chopped olives, bell peppers, or different cheeses.
- Leftover empanadas can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
- For a spicier version, add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling.
