These Beef and Cheese Empanadas are perfect for a quick, delicious snack or as part of a larger meal. The crispy, golden crust holds a savory, cheesy filling that’s sure to satisfy any craving. Whether served at a party, as a main dish, or even as an appetizer, they bring a burst of flavor and texture in every bite.
What makes this dish stand out is the balance between the tender, seasoned beef and the melty cheese inside the flaky dough. They are easy to prepare, making them a great option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. You can also experiment with different fillings and spices to customize them to your taste – a truly versatile dish that’s loved by all.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 package of empanada dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat and let it cool.
- Once the beef mixture has cooled slightly, stir in the shredded cheese.
- Roll out the empanada dough on a floured surface. Using a round cutter, cut out circles of dough (about 4-5 inches in diameter).
- Place a spoonful of the beef and cheese mixture in the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, then pinch the edges to seal the empanada.
- Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the tops of the empanadas with a beaten egg to create a golden crust.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the empanadas are golden brown.
- Serve hot with a side of salsa or guacamole.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 8 empanadas
Introduction to Beef and Cheese Empanadas
Empanadas are a beloved dish in many cultures, particularly in Latin America, where they serve as both an appetizer and a main dish. These golden, flaky pockets of dough, filled with a variety of savory fillings, are perfect for a casual dinner, a festive gathering, or even as a handheld snack. Among the most popular variations is the classic Beef and Cheese Empanada. This recipe features a rich combination of seasoned beef and melted cheese encased in a perfectly baked dough. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that has a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and convenience. Whether you’re looking for an easy meal idea or a fun appetizer for your next party, these empanadas are sure to impress.
The Origins of Empanadas
The word “empanada” comes from the Spanish verb empanar, which means “to coat or wrap in bread.” The origins of the empanada date back to Spain, where they were likely first created to make use of leftover meats. Over time, they became a staple in many countries across Latin America, the Caribbean, and even parts of Europe. Each region has its own version of the empanada, with variations in filling, dough, and cooking method.
Empanadas are incredibly versatile; while the traditional fillings often include beef, chicken, or pork, modern variations also include seafood, vegetables, and even sweet fillings like fruit and chocolate. The dough can be baked or fried, depending on the preference of the cook or the regional tradition. Beef and cheese empanadas are particularly popular because the combination of savory, juicy beef and creamy cheese makes for an irresistible bite.
Why Beef and Cheese Empanadas?
Beef and Cheese Empanadas combine two ingredients that almost everyone loves: ground beef and cheese. The ground beef provides a rich, savory flavor while the cheese brings a creamy texture that perfectly complements the beef’s heartiness. The cheesy filling melts beautifully during baking, ensuring that each bite is deliciously satisfying. Furthermore, the empanada dough adds another layer of texture with its crispiness on the outside and a soft, warm interior.
What makes Beef and Cheese Empanadas such a great dish is their balance of flavor and convenience. The filling is easy to prepare, and the dough (either store-bought or homemade) can be rolled out and shaped in no time. This makes it an ideal dish for busy weeknights when you want something comforting but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. At the same time, they make an excellent choice for a party appetizer, potluck, or game-day snack. The hand-held nature of empanadas means they’re easy to serve and eat, making them crowd-pleasers at any gathering.
The Flavor Profile of Beef and Cheese Empanadas
Beef and Cheese Empanadas are savory and satisfying, with a perfect mix of flavors and textures. The ground beef is seasoned with classic spices like cumin and paprika, giving it a warm, earthy flavor that is both aromatic and rich. These spices help to elevate the beef, bringing out its natural savory notes while adding a touch of heat and complexity. The cheese—whether you choose cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination of both—adds creaminess to the filling, creating a perfect contrast to the savory beef.
The dough itself, whether you use store-bought or homemade, is soft yet flaky, with a golden, crispy crust that holds everything together beautifully. When baked, the empanadas develop a slight crunch on the outside while maintaining a tender, flavorful filling. This contrast of textures is one of the reasons why empanadas are so irresistible. You get the crisp exterior and the soft, savory interior in every bite.
How to Customize Beef and Cheese Empanadas
One of the best things about Beef and Cheese Empanadas is their versatility. While the classic combination of beef and cheese is always a winner, there are plenty of ways to customize this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.
For example, you can experiment with different types of cheese. While cheddar and mozzarella are common choices, you could use queso blanco, gouda, or even a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or chili powder to the beef filling. On the other hand, for a more subtle flavor, you can omit the spices and keep the filling simple with just the beef and cheese.
Another way to customize your empanadas is by adding vegetables to the filling. Diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach can enhance the texture and flavor of the beef while adding some extra nutrients. You can also substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even beans for a different filling.
Finally, you can make the dough from scratch if you have the time and inclination. Homemade dough has a distinct texture and flavor that can elevate the empanada experience even further. Many people find that homemade dough results in a flakier, more buttery crust.
The Benefits of Making Empanadas at Home
While it’s easy to find store-bought empanada dough and fillings, making your own empanadas from scratch has several benefits. For one, it allows you to control the ingredients and customize the recipe to your liking. Whether you choose to add extra vegetables, use a specific cheese, or adjust the seasoning, making your empanadas at home means you get to perfect the recipe.
Additionally, homemade empanadas can be made in larger batches and frozen for later use. This is a great option for busy households, as you can prepare the empanadas in advance, bake them when needed, or freeze them raw for future enjoyment. Freezing the empanadas is a smart way to ensure you always have a delicious, homemade snack or meal on hand.
Making empanadas at home also means you avoid the preservatives and artificial ingredients often found in store-bought versions. With a few simple ingredients—beef, cheese, dough, and spices—you can create a much fresher, tastier version of this beloved dish.
Empanadas as a Crowd-Pleaser
Beef and Cheese Empanadas are a fantastic choice for any gathering, whether it’s a family dinner, a party, or a potluck. These empanadas are easy to eat with your hands, making them perfect for casual events where guests want to mingle and snack. Plus, they can be served hot out of the oven or at room temperature, so there’s no need to worry about keeping them warm for long periods.
In addition to their convenience, empanadas can be made in advance, freeing you up to enjoy the party. Simply bake them beforehand, then reheat in the oven or serve them at room temperature. You can even prepare the dough and filling a day or two in advance and assemble the empanadas when you’re ready to bake. This makes Beef and Cheese Empanadas an ideal choice for busy hosts.
Conclusion
Beef and Cheese Empanadas are a simple yet delicious dish that combines the comfort of ground beef, the melt-in-your-mouth creaminess of cheese, and the golden crispiness of empanada dough. Whether you’re looking for a hearty snack, a quick meal, or a party appetizer, this dish is a winner in every way. It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and sure to impress anyone who tries it.
Not only do these empanadas bring bold flavors to the table, but they also offer versatility. You can adapt the filling to your tastes and dietary preferences, making them suitable for anyone. Additionally, they’re simple enough to prepare for a busy weeknight dinner or to make in large batches for a special occasion. Whether you bake or fry them, these Beef and Cheese Empanadas are sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time. If you haven’t already, now’s the time to give them a try and enjoy a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.