Beef and Cheese Empanadas are delicious hand-held pastries filled with a savory mixture of ground beef and cheese. These golden treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a fun get-together with friends.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Beef and Cheese Empanadas is a great choice because they are not only tasty but also easy to prepare. You can enjoy them fresh from the oven or keep them for later. They’re a hit with both kids and adults, making them perfect for any gathering.
How to Make Beef and Cheese Empanadas
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup cold water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: Salsa
- Optional: Sour cream
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together. Add the cold butter and blend it until it looks like coarse crumbs. In another bowl, whisk the egg and cold water together, then add it to the flour mixture. Stir until the dough forms. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Filling
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the ground beef until it is browned. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking until everything is softened. Season it with cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cheese, and let the filling cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface until it is about 1/8-inch thick. Use a round cutter to cut out circles of dough. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture on one half of each circle, fold over, and seal the edges with a fork.
Step 4: Bake
Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg for a nice color. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown.
Step 5: Serve
Let the empanadas cool slightly before enjoying. They are delicious on their own or served with salsa and sour cream!
How to Serve Beef and Cheese Empanadas
Beef and Cheese Empanadas are best served warm. You can plate them up for a party or enjoy them as a snack. They go well with dipping sauces like salsa or sour cream.
How to Store Beef and Cheese Empanadas
If you have leftovers, store the cooled empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven for a few minutes to warm them up and make them crispy again.
Tips to Make Beef and Cheese Empanadas
- Make sure your butter is very cold to get a flaky dough.
- You can prepare the filling a day in advance and keep it in the fridge.
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors!
Variation
Try adding chopped olives or jalapeños for an extra kick! You can also use chicken or vegetables instead of beef if you prefer a different filling.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze Beef and Cheese Empanadas?
Yes! You can freeze them before or after baking. Allow them to cool, then store them in a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen when ready to eat.
2. How do I know when the empanadas are done?
They should be golden brown on top. If you gently tap them, they will feel firm to the touch.
3. Can I bake them instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking is healthier, and you get a lovely crispness. Just follow the baking instructions in the recipe.