Beef and Cheese Empanadas
Beef and Cheese Empanadas are a delightful treat that burst with flavor and a satisfying texture. These hand-held pastries are filled with seasoned ground beef and a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy Monterey Jack cheeses, all encased in a flaky crust. The combination of spices, including cumin and garlic, transforms a simple filling into a mouthwatering experience that warms your heart. They are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner, a casual brunch, or a party appetizer. This recipe is your guide to creating these delicious empanadas, ensuring each bite is a cheesy, savory morsel filled with love and tradition. Enjoy this step-by-step recipe and discover why beef and cheese empanadas are worth making today!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Beef and Cheese Empanadas are not only delightful but also incredibly easy to prepare. The most appealing aspect of this dish is the minimal prep time required. With just one pound of ground beef and a few simple seasonings, your filling comes together quickly. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
They are also family-friendly, appealing to both adults and kids alike. The comforting blend of beef and cheese wrapped in a crispy outer crust satisfies all appetites. Plus, you can make them in advance, freeze them, and bake them fresh whenever the craving strikes. This recipe invites everyone into the kitchen for a fun cooking experience, making it a cherished family tradition.
Ingredients for Beef and Cheese Empanadas
1 lb ground beef – Juicy and perfectly seasoned, the heart of your empanadas.
1 medium onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth.
4 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses a fragrant aroma that uplifts all the flavors.
1 1/2 tsp ground cumin – This warm spice brings a distinctive, earthy tone.
1 1/2 tsp garlic salt – Elevates the flavor profile and enhances the savory experience.
1 tsp seasoned salt – To ensure a well-rounded taste.
1 tsp pepper – Adds a hint of heat and sharpness.
1 tsp oregano – Provides an aromatic freshness.
1/2 tsp crushed red peppers – For those who enjoy a little kick!
1/4 tsp chili powder – Complements the flavor with a mild spice.
8 oz can tomato sauce – Moistens the filling and adds savory tang.
1 Tbsp diced jalapeños – A pop of heat and flavor.
1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated – Brings richness and sharpness.
1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated – Melts beautifully to enhance the texture.
2 boxes refrigerated pie crust – The easy, flaky outer layer that wraps around your delicious filling.
1 egg – To create a golden-brown finish.
Step-by-Step Directions for Beef and Cheese Empanadas
To begin your Beef and Cheese Empanadas, preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a cast-iron pan or a large frying pan, add the ground beef along with the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink, allowing the onions and garlic to soften beautifully. Once cooked, drain the excess grease and return it to the pan.
Sprinkle the cooked beef with ground cumin, garlic salt, seasoned salt, pepper, oregano, crushed red peppers, and chili powder. Stir the mixture thoroughly so every bite is well-seasoned. Next, add the can of tomato sauce and diced jalapeños to the pan. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 15 minutes, letting the flavors meld together deliciously.
While the filling simmers, unroll the refrigerated pie crust on a lightly floured surface. Use a 4-inch bowl turned upside down to cut out circles from the dough. You should be able to get four pieces per dough round. Before filling each circle of dough, add a little water to the edges to help seal them once filled.
To fill the empanadas, place a small amount of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on the center of each dough circle, followed by approximately a 1/4 cup of the meat mixture. Once filled, fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Using a fork, press down on the edges to seal them securely and place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg with one tablespoon of water. Using a basting brush, apply the egg wash over the tops of the empanadas to achieve a gorgeous golden brown finish when baked. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until the empanadas are beautifully golden. Once done, carefully remove them from the oven, let cool slightly, and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks for Beef and Cheese Empanadas
For a perfect empanada, ensure your filling is not watery; a thick meat mixture ensures the crust remains crisp. If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, consider incorporating some cooked spices or fresh herbs like cilantro into your meat mixture.
You can experiment with the types of cheese, adding pepper jack for an extra kick or using queso blanco for a milder flavor. Feel free to mix in vegetables like bell peppers or corn for a colorful variation.
When folding and sealing the empanadas, ensure they are well-closed to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking. If you have a difficult time sealing, use a bit of egg wash along the edges as a glue.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings for Beef and Cheese Empanadas
Beef and Cheese Empanadas are delightful on their own, but they can truly shine when paired with complementary sides. Consider serving them with a refreshing salad, like cucumber and tomato salad drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice for a burst of freshness.
For a dipping sauce, whip up a creamy avocado dip or a tangy salsa. Both options enhance the savory flavors of the empanadas. If you want to turn these into a full meal, serve them alongside black beans and rice for a well-rounded feast.
You can also create a fun game-day platter by cutting the empanadas into smaller bites and serving them with an array of sauces, inviting your guests to enjoy a variety of flavors.
Nutritional Information
Each beef and cheese empanada contains approximately 250 calories, offering a satisfying balance of protein and essential fats. With ground beef as a source of protein, paired with cheeses rich in calcium, these empanadas provide energy and nourishment. However, consider moderation, especially if you are watching your caloric intake.
In terms of indulgence, it’s worth noting that while empanadas are deliciously hearty, serving them with a light side or salad can balance the meal nicely without compromising flavor.
Storing Tips & Variations for Beef and Cheese Empanadas
After making a large batch of Beef and Cheese Empanadas, you’ll want to know how to store them. They can easily be frozen both before and after baking. To freeze uncooked empanadas, simply arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
When you’re ready to bake them, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through. For already baked empanadas, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for up to two months.
For healthier variations, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also swap out half of the cheese for some finely chopped spinach or other leafy greens to add some nutrients while keeping the delicious flavors intact.
Conclusion for Beef and Cheese Empanadas
Don’t wait another day to treat yourself and your loved ones to these scrumptious Beef and Cheese Empanadas. With their rich flavors, crispy crusts, and cheesy interiors, they make for an irresistible snack or meal. Follow this easy, step-by-step recipe, and experience the joy of creating a beloved dish that brings people together around the dinner table. Whether you choose to enjoy them fresh from the oven or as part of a delightful feast, these empanadas are sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor every last bite of these delicious morsels!
FAQs
Can I make empanadas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the empanadas ahead of time. They can be stored in the fridge for a day before baking or frozen for later use.What is the best way to reheat empanadas?
For the best results, reheat empanadas in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This method keeps the crust nice and crispy.Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, feel free to substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian grounds for a meat-free variation.What dipping sauces go well with empanadas?
Empanadas pair wonderfully with a variety of sauces, including avocado dip, salsa, or even a tangy garlic mayonnaise.How can I make my empanadas spicier?
To add more heat, include more diced jalapeños or even some hot sauce in the filling, or replace some of the cheese with pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist!
Beef and Cheese Empanadas
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 lb ground beef Juicy and perfectly seasoned, the heart of your empanadas.
- 1 medium onion, chopped Adds sweetness and depth.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Infuses a fragrant aroma.
- 1.5 tsp ground cumin Brings a distinctive, earthy tone.
- 1.5 tsp garlic salt Elevates the flavor profile.
- 1 tsp seasoned salt To ensure a well-rounded taste.
- 1 tsp pepper Adds a hint of heat.
- 1 tsp oregano Provides aromatic freshness.
- 0.5 tsp crushed red peppers For those who enjoy a little kick!
- 0.25 tsp chili powder Complements the flavor.
- 8 oz can tomato sauce Moistens the filling.
- 1 Tbsp diced jalapeños A pop of heat and flavor.
- 0.5 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated Brings richness and sharpness.
- 0.5 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated Melts beautifully.
For the Crust
- 2 boxes refrigerated pie crust The easy, flaky outer layer.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a cast-iron pan or a large frying pan, add the ground beef, chopped onions, and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink.
- Drain the excess grease and return the pan to the heat.
Cooking the Filling
- Sprinkle the cooked beef with ground cumin, garlic salt, seasoned salt, pepper, oregano, crushed red peppers, and chili powder. Stir to combine.
- Add the tomato sauce and diced jalapeños, letting the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes.
Assembling the Empanadas
- Unroll the refrigerated pie crust on a lightly floured surface. Cut out circles using a 4-inch bowl.
- Add a small amount of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese to the center of each dough circle, followed by approximately a 1/4 cup of the meat mixture.
- Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press down on the edges with a fork to seal.
- Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Baking
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg with one tablespoon of water. Brush the egg wash over the tops of the empanadas.
- Bake for about 15 minutes or until the empanadas are golden brown.
Serving
- Once done, carefully remove them from the oven, let cool slightly, and enjoy!
