Beef and Cheese Empanadas
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Beef and Cheese Empanadas are the ultimate comfort food. With their golden-brown, flaky crust filled with a savory, spiced beef mixture and melted cheese, they make for an irresistible treat any time of the day. I fondly remember huddling around the kitchen table with my family, savoring these empanadas during weekend brunches or festive gatherings. They not only please the palate but also create cherished moments, making them a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire.
What Makes This Recipe Special
You’ll adore these Beef and Cheese Empanadas for a multitude of reasons. First off, they’re simple to prepare, making them a fabulous option for weeknight dinners or when you’re entertaining guests. You can whip them up quickly, and they don’t break the bank—making them an ideal dish for budget-conscious cooks. Plus, they are filled with hearty ground beef and gooey cheese, ensuring they’re a hit with kids and adults alike. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, these empanadas are sure to impress.
“These empanadas were the highlight of our family dinner! Flaky, cheesy, and bursting with flavor—definitely a recipe we’ll be making regularly!”
The Cooking Process Explained
Making Beef and Cheese Empanadas is straightforward and rewarding. Start by creating a flavorful beef mixture infused with spices and cheese. While your meat mixture simmers, prepare your dough and whip up a simple egg wash. Finally, assemble your empanadas, brush them with the egg wash, and bake to golden perfection. This recipe unfolds seamlessly, ensuring you can enjoy delicious homemade empanadas without a fuss.
What You’ll Need
Here’s your shopping list for these delicious empanadas:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 jalapeño (seeds, stem removed, diced)
- 1 ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama® seasoning
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup Pepper Jack cheese (shredded)
- 11.6 ounces 5” empanada dough (I used Goya)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
Feel free to swap ingredients—ground turkey or chicken works well, and you can adjust or eliminate spices to tailor the flavor to your liking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking.
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Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced jalapeño. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
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Season the Mixture: Stir in ground cumin, Slap Ya Mama® seasoning, black pepper, oregano, red pepper flakes, and chili powder. Mix thoroughly. Add the tomato sauce, and let it simmer for a few minutes until everything is well combined. Remove from heat, then fold in the shredded cheddar and Pepper Jack cheese until melted.
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Prepare the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. This will give your empanadas a beautiful golden crust.
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Assemble the Empanadas: Take a piece of empanada dough and place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center. Fold the dough over, sealing the edges by pressing firmly with your fingers or a fork.
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Bake: Place the empanadas on a lined baking sheet. Brush each one with the egg wash and bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These Beef and Cheese Empanadas are versatile. Serve them warm as a snack or appetizer, or plate them up as a main dish with sides like a fresh garden salad or guacamole. They pair wonderfully with a zesty salsa for dipping or a simple sour cream.
How to Store & Freeze
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To freeze, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for a crispy finish.
Practical Cooking Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice to the beef mixture.
- Do you love spice? Increase the jalapeño or add some diced green chilies for a kick.
- If using store-bought dough, ensure it’s pliable by letting it sit at room temperature for a bit before use.
Creative Twists
Looking to mix things up? Try adding black beans or corn for a Tex-Mex flair. You could also swap out the cheeses for something different, like mozzarella or goat cheese. Experimenting with various herbs can also change the flavor profile completely—fresh cilantro or parsley could add a wonderful twist.
FAQs
What is the preparation time for these empanadas?
The preparation time is around 20 minutes, while baking takes about 18-20 minutes.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the empanadas and refrigerate them before baking. Just increase the baking time a bit if they go into the oven cold.
Are there any good vegetarian substitutes I can use?
Certainly! Substitute the ground beef with a mixture of mushrooms, lentils, or black beans for a delicious vegetarian version.
By following this recipe for Beef and Cheese Empanadas, you’re in for a treat that’s sure to become a household favorite! Enjoy the flavors, the aromas, and the wonderful moments created while sharing these delightful bites with your loved ones.
Beef and Cheese Empanadas
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced jalapeño. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in ground cumin, Slap Ya Mama® seasoning, black pepper, oregano, red pepper flakes, and chili powder. Mix thoroughly. Add the tomato sauce, and let it simmer for a few minutes until well combined. Remove from heat, then fold in the shredded cheddar and Pepper Jack cheese until melted.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create the egg wash.
- Take a piece of empanada dough and place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center. Fold the dough over, sealing the edges by pressing firmly with your fingers or a fork.
- Place the empanadas on a lined baking sheet. Brush each one with the egg wash and bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
