Description
Satisfy your cravings with these Beef & Cheese Empanadas, a deliciously flaky, savory pastry filled with seasoned ground beef and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect as appetizers, snacks, or a comforting dinner, these empanadas are quick and easy to prepare with simple ingredients, making them a favorite for all occasions.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cook the Filling: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until softened, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Brown the Beef: Add ground beef, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it up into small pieces. Remove from heat and mix in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out the pie crusts on a floured surface and cut into 4-inch circles.
- Assemble the Empanadas: Spoon beef filling onto each dough circle. Fold to form a half-moon, sealing edges with a fork.
- Brush with Egg Wash and Bake: Place empanadas on the baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Make-Ahead: Assemble and freeze unbaked empanadas on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen for 25-30 minutes at 375°F.
Reheating Tips: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes to keep them crispy.
Cheese Options: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a flavorful variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American, Spanish-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 empanadas
- Calories: 250 kcal
