Beef & Cheese Empanadas Recipe
These Beef & Cheese Empanadas are the ultimate comfort food, packed with a flavorful blend of seasoned ground beef and melted cheddar cheese. The crispy, golden pie crust encases the filling perfectly, creating a delicious handheld snack. Ideal for parties, appetizers, or family gatherings, these empanadas bring a taste of Latin-inspired cuisine to your kitchen. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, they’re perfect when paired with a dipping sauce like salsa or guacamole. A savory treat that’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp 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:
Prepare the Beef & Cheese Filling:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
2. Stir in garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks.
4. Season with cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes to combine flavors. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
5. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese to make a savory, cheesy filling.
Assemble Your Empanadas:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. On a floured surface, unroll pie crusts and use a round cutter or glass to cut circles about 4 inches in diameter.
3. Place a spoonful of the beef-cheese mixture in the center of each dough circle.
4. Fold the dough to form a half-moon shape and press edges with a fork to seal.
Bake the Empanadas to Golden Perfection:
1. Place empanadas on the baking sheet and brush the tops with beaten egg.
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
Serve & Enjoy!
Allow the empanadas to cool slightly, then serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like salsa or guacamole. Perfect for parties or family snacks!
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories: 250 kcal per empanada | Servings: Makes 12 empanadas