Beef and Cheese Empanadas
Craving a savory treat? Beef and Cheese Empanadas are the answer. Learn easy tips for perfect empanadas every time. Discover now.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheese Monterey Jack, cheddar, or mozzarella
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Empanada dough discs store-bought or homemade
- 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: chopped green olives red bell pepper, hot sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling : Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened. Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir in paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and mix in shredded cheese. Let cool.
- Assemble the Empanadas : Place a spoonful of the beef and cheese mixture onto the center of each empanada dough disc. Fold the dough in half to form a half-moon shape, pressing the edges firmly with a fork to seal.
- Cook the Empanadas : Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush empanadas with beaten egg for a golden finish. Arrange on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Alternatively, fry in hot oil for 2-3 minutes per side until crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy : Allow empanadas to cool slightly before serving. Pair with dipping sauces like salsa, cilantro-lime crema, or spicy aioli for extra flavor.
Notes
Pros:
- Easy to customize with spices and fillings
- Versatile for any meal or occasion
- Freezable for future use
- Can be baked or fried for different textures
- Perfect for sharing at parties or family gatherings
Cons:
- Requires careful sealing to prevent leaks during cooking
- Filling can become soggy if too much liquid is added
- May take practice to achieve perfectly flaky crusts