Cheesy Beef Empanadas Recipe
These Cheesy Beef Empanadas are a delicious combination of seasoned ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and a crispy, golden-brown crust. They’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, and are easy to make with store-bought empanada dough for convenience. Serve them with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for an added burst of flavor!
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of both work great)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Dough:
- 1 package (10-12 count) of empanada discs (store-bought, found in the frozen section)
- If you’re making dough from scratch, you’ll need about 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 cup butter (cut into small cubes), and 1 egg (for the dough).
For Sealing and Glazing:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water (to mix with the egg for the egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook for another minute until the spices are well incorporated.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and let the beef mixture cool for a few minutes.
- Once cooled, stir in the shredded cheese and chopped green onions (if using) until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
2. Assemble the Empanadas:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- If you’re using frozen empanada discs, let them thaw at room temperature for about 10 minutes. If you’re using homemade dough, roll out individual rounds of dough to about 4-5 inches in diameter.
- Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the beef mixture onto the center of each empanada disc.
- Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Use a fork to crimp the edges tightly and seal the empanada. You can also press the edges with your fingers to ensure they’re sealed securely.
3. Brush with Egg Wash:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and water to make the egg wash.
- Brush the tops of each empanada with the egg wash for a golden, glossy finish.
4. Bake the Empanadas:
- Place the assembled empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.
- Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.
5. Serve:
- Once baked, remove the empanadas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa on the side for dipping.
Tips and Variations:
- For a Spicy Kick: Add some finely chopped jalapeños or a small can of diced green chilies to the filling for some extra heat.
- Add Vegetables: You can incorporate diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even some corn into the beef filling for added flavor and texture.
- Make Ahead: These empanadas freeze well! Assemble them, but don’t bake them yet. Place the unbaked empanadas on a baking sheet in the freezer, and once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
- Vegan Option: Swap the ground beef for vegetarian crumbles, black beans, or a mix of sautéed vegetables for a delicious meat-free version.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these Cheesy Beef Empanadas as an appetizer or main dish with your favorite sides. They’re great with a fresh green salad, rice, or Mexican corn salad.
- They’re perfect for parties or casual dinners, and kids love them as a fun, handheld snack!
These Cheesy Beef Empanadas are crispy, cheesy, and packed with savory goodness, making them a crowd favorite for any occasion! Enjoy!
