Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe

These Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe are a must-try for anyone who loves savory snacks with a twist! Bursting with rich flavors from seasoned ground beef and melted cheese, these empanadas make for a perfect appetizer or a hearty meal. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for game day snacks, or simply craving something delicious, these empanadas will surely impress your guests and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these empanadas are quick to make, even for beginner cooks.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of ground beef and cheddar cheese, enhanced with spices, creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Snacking: Perfect as an appetizer or a main dish, these empanadas can be served at various occasions, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. This will help streamline your preparation and ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Skillet
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Helps you easily roll out the pie crusts to the desired thickness for your empanadas.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.

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Ingredients

For the Filling

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the Dough

• 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

How to Make Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

In a large skillet:
* Heat the olive oil over medium heat.
* Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
* Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the ground beef:
1. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks.
2. Stir in cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook until browned and fully cooked.

Step 3: Combine Filling Ingredients

Remove the skillet from heat:
* Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined with the beef mixture.

Step 4: Prepare Dough Circles

On a floured surface:
1. Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts.
2. Use a 4-inch round cutter to cut circles from the dough.

Step 5: Fill the Empanadas

Place a spoonful of the beef and cheese mixture in each dough circle:
* Be careful not to overfill; this makes sealing difficult.

Step 6: Seal Empanadas

Fold each dough circle over the filling to create a half-moon shape:
* Use a fork to press down along the edges for a tight seal.

Step 7: Bake Empanadas

Brush tops with beaten egg:
1. Place on prepared baking sheet.
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crisp.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Allow cooling slightly before serving. Enjoy these delicious Beef & Cheese Empanadas warm!

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Latin American

How to Serve Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe

These Beef & Cheese Empanadas are not just a tasty treat; they can be served in various delightful ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to make your empanada experience even better.

With Dipping Sauces

• Salsa Verde: A fresh and zesty green sauce that adds a vibrant kick.
• Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that complements the savory flavors of the empanadas.
• Chipotle Aioli: A smoky and spicy mayo-based dip that pairs well with the beef filling.

As a Meal

• With Rice: Serve alongside seasoned rice for a satisfying and complete meal.
• With Salad: A light, crisp salad can balance the richness of the empanadas beautifully.
• On a Platter: Present them on a large platter for gatherings, accompanied by various dips for guests to enjoy.

With Beverages

• Iced Tea: A refreshing drink that can help cleanse the palate between bites.
• Fruit Juices: Freshly squeezed juices like orange or pineapple provide a sweet contrast to the savory empanadas.

How to Perfect Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe

To ensure your Beef & Cheese Empanadas come out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Cold Ingredients: Keep your pie crusts cold before rolling them out. This helps achieve a flaky texture.
• Seal Tightly: Make sure to seal the edges well to prevent any filling from leaking during baking.
• Don’t Overfill: Be cautious with the filling amount so you can easily close and seal each empanada without tearing.
• Preheat Your Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking for even cooking and browning.
• Brush with Egg Wash: This gives the empanadas a beautiful golden color and crispy finish when baked.

Best Side Dishes for Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Beef & Cheese Empanadas can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Cilantro-Lime Rice: Fluffy rice brightened with lime juice and cilantro complements the flavors of beef and cheese.
2. Black Bean Salad: A hearty salad packed with protein, adding a nutritious element to your meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender make for a delicious, healthy side.
4. Corn Salad: A fresh salad featuring corn, tomatoes, and herbs adds sweetness and crunch.
5. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory empanadas.
6. Avocado Slices: Simple yet flavorful, fresh avocado slices enhance the dish’s creaminess without overwhelming it.
7. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries offer a sweet touch that pairs nicely with the rich beef filling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Beef & Cheese Empanadas, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid that can improve your results.

• Boldly overfilling: Placing too much filling in the empanadas can make sealing them difficult. Use a spoonful of filling to ensure they close properly.
• Neglecting the dough: Skipping the chilling step for the dough can lead to tough empanadas. Chill the dough briefly before rolling it out for better texture.
• Inconsistent baking time: Not keeping an eye on the baking time can lead to undercooked or burnt empanadas. Set a timer and check them a few minutes before the suggested time.
• Ignoring spice balance: Over-seasoning or under-seasoning the filling can affect flavor. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.
• Not sealing edges properly: Failing to seal the edges can result in leaking filling during baking. Use a fork to press down firmly along the edges.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before placing them in the refrigerator to prevent sogginess.

Freezing Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe

• Place uncooked empanadas on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake frozen empanadas for about 25-30 minutes until heated through and golden brown.
• Microwave: Heat individual empanadas on high for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds until warm. Note that this may make them soft rather than crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Beef & Cheese Empanadas that might help you while cooking.

Can I use other meats in this Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, lamb, or even chicken if you prefer different flavors.

How do I know when my Beef & Cheese Empanadas are done?

Look for a golden-brown color on top. The filling should be hot and bubbly when you cut one open.

Can I make these Beef & Cheese Empanadas ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them ahead and refrigerate or freeze them before baking. Just remember to adjust baking times if cooking from frozen.

What sauces pair well with Beef & Cheese Empanadas?

These empanadas pair nicely with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. Feel free to experiment with your favorite dips!

Final Thoughts

These Beef & Cheese Empanadas are not only delicious but also versatile. They make for a great snack, appetizer, or main dish and can be customized easily with your choice of spices and add-ins. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!