Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe

These Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe are a perfect blend of savory ground beef and melted cheddar cheese, wrapped in a flaky pastry. They make for an excellent appetizer, snack, or even a hearty meal. With their rich flavors and golden crust, these empanadas are sure to delight everyone at your gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making these empanadas is a breeze.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of spices with ground beef and cheese creates a deliciously satisfying filling.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for parties, game nights, or just a cozy dinner at home, they fit any occasion seamlessly.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare these empanadas in advance and freeze them for later baking.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether served as a snack or part of a meal, these empanadas are loved by all ages.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Beef & Cheese Empanadas, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having the right equipment will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• 4-inch round cutter
• Large skillet
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the pie crusts evenly, ensuring perfect thickness for the empanadas.
• Large skillet: Allows for even cooking of the beef mixture without overcrowding.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking during baking and makes cleanup easier.

Ingredients

To create these delicious Beef & Cheese Empanadas, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

How to Make Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
* Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
* Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook Ground Beef Mixture

Add the ground beef to the skillet while breaking it up with a spatula.
* Stir in the cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
* Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked.

Step 4: Combine with Cheese

Remove the skillet from heat.
* Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the beef mixture.

Step 5: Prepare Dough Circles

On a floured surface, roll out refrigerated pie crusts.
* Use a 4-inch round cutter to cut circles from the dough.

Step 6: Fill Empanadas

Place a spoonful of the beef mixture at the center of each dough circle.
* Be careful not to overfill as this can make sealing difficult.

Step 7: Seal Empanadas

Fold each dough circle over to create a half-moon shape.
* Use a fork to press down along edges tightly sealing them.

Step 8: Brush with Egg Wash

Brush tops of empanadas with beaten egg to achieve a golden finish when baked.

Step 9: Bake Empanadas

Place empanadas on the prepared baking sheet.
* Bake for about 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown and crisp.

Step 10: Serve Warm

Allow empanadas to cool slightly before serving warm. Enjoy!

How to Serve Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe

Beef & Cheese Empanadas are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether as an appetizer at a party or a main dish for dinner, these empanadas can be paired with various sides and sauces to enhance their flavor.

With Dipping Sauces

• Salsa – A fresh tomato salsa adds a zesty kick that complements the savory beef and cheese.
• Guacamole – Creamy guacamole pairs well, adding richness and a touch of freshness.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream can balance the spices and make each bite creamy.

As Part of a Platter

• Charcuterie Board – Include the empanadas alongside cured meats, cheeses, and fruits for an inviting platter.
• Tapas Spread – Serve with other small dishes like olives, peppers, and cheese for a diverse tapas night.

Accompanied by Salads

• Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm empanadas.
• Coleslaw – Crunchy coleslaw adds texture and a bit of tanginess to the meal.

How to Perfect Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe

Perfecting your Beef & Cheese Empanadas requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your empanadas are delicious every time.

• Choose Quality Beef – Use lean ground beef for better flavor and less grease in your filling.
• Don’t Overfill – Be careful with portioning; overfilling can lead to messy empanadas that won’t seal properly.
• Seal Tightly – Make sure to press the edges firmly when sealing to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking.
• Preheat Your Oven – Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking and crispiness on the outside.
• Experiment with Spices – Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences for unique flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe

Pairing side dishes with Beef & Cheese Empanadas enhances the overall meal experience. Here are some great options that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Spanish Rice – This flavorful rice dish infused with spices makes for a hearty accompaniment.
2. Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans provide protein and pair excellently with the savory empanadas.
3. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and crunch, balancing out the richness of the empanadas.
4. Chips and Salsa – Crispy tortilla chips with fresh salsa are perfect for snacking alongside your main dish.
5. Fried Plantains – Sweet fried plantains offer a delicious contrast to the savory flavors of the empanadas.
6. Zucchini Salad – A light zucchini salad dressed with lemon juice offers freshness that cuts through the heaviness of the empanadas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Beef & Cheese Empanadas, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overfilling the empanadas: Filling them too much can cause the dough to break during baking. Use a spoonful of filling to ensure they seal properly.
• Not sealing edges well: Poorly sealed edges can lead to leaks while baking. Make sure to press firmly with a fork along the edges to secure them.
• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold filling or dough can affect the texture. Allow your filling and dough to come to room temperature before assembly.
• Skipping the egg wash: An egg wash gives your empanadas a beautiful golden color and crispy finish. Don’t skip this step; brush them generously before baking.
• Neglecting oven preheating: Baking in a non-preheated oven may result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking, to prevent sticking.

Freezing Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe

• Freeze uncooked empanadas on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them into freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Label and date the bags for easy identification later.

Reheating Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but note that this may make the crust less crispy.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe that you might find helpful.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will provide a lighter flavor while still being delicious.

How can I customize my Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe?

Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or corn, or try using different types of cheese for added flavor.

What is the best way to serve these empanadas?

They pair beautifully with salsa, guacamole, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and freeze them ahead of time for quick meals later.

Final Thoughts

These Beef & Cheese Empanadas are not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with different fillings or spices according to your taste. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delightful bites at your next gathering!