Oh my goodness, let me tell you about beef cheese empanadas! These little pockets of joy are not just delicious; they’re incredibly versatile, making them perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively party with friends. I remember the first time I made them; my kitchen was filled with the savory aroma of sizzling beef and melting cheese, and everyone couldn’t wait to dig in! Trust me, once you take that first bite—crispy golden dough hugging a cheesy beef filling—you’ll be hooked. They’re a real crowd-pleaser, and I can’t wait to share my secrets with you!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground beef (I love using lean beef for a healthier option)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (preferably a melting cheese like Monterey Jack or cheddar)
- 1 onion, chopped (this adds such a wonderful sweetness to the filling)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better, right?)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (it gives a warm, earthy flavor)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (this adds a lovely color and a hint of smokiness)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning!)
- 1 package of empanada dough (you can find this in the freezer section)
- 1 egg, for egg wash (this helps achieve that beautiful golden crust)
How to Prepare Beef Cheese Empanadas
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making these scrumptious beef cheese empanadas! I promise, it’s easier than you might think. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a batch ready to wow your friends and family in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). It’s important to get that heat going so your empanadas bake up nice and crispy!
- In a skillet, cook your ground beef over medium heat until it’s beautifully browned—about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it apart with a spatula so it cooks evenly.
- Add in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant. Oh, the smell is heavenly!
- Now, stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. This is where the magic happens—mix it all up and let the spices bloom for just a minute.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly before folding in that glorious shredded cheese.
- Meanwhile, roll out your empanada dough on a lightly floured surface and cut it into circles—about 4-5 inches in diameter works great.
- Place a generous spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each circle. Don’t skimp on the filling; you want each bite to be bursting with flavor!
- Carefully fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges by pressing down with a fork. This keeps all that deliciousness inside!
- Brush the tops with your egg wash for that gorgeous golden finish, and then pop them in the oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown and irresistible. You’ll know they’re done when your kitchen smells like heaven!
Prepping the Filling
When cooking the beef, don’t rush it! Browning the meat well is key to developing a rich flavor. Keep stirring occasionally and make sure the beef is fully cooked through. Once you add the onions and garlic, let them soften just enough to sweeten the mixture. The cooling step is crucial too, as it prevents the cheese from melting too early; we want that gooey goodness inside the empanada!
Assembling the Empanadas
For the dough, if you find it too sticky, a light dusting of flour will help. When cutting out circles, I like to use a small plate as a guide—just flip it over and trace around the edge. When filling, be careful not to overfill, or you might have a messy leak—trust me, I’ve been there! Pressing the edges with a fork not only seals them tightly but also adds a cute little decorative touch!
Baking and Serving
Keep an eye on your empanadas as they bake; you want them to be a lovely golden brown, which usually takes around 20-25 minutes. If you like them extra crispy, you can leave them in for an extra minute or two, but don’t wander off! Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re best enjoyed hot, with your favorite salsa or dipping sauce on the side!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness of these beef cheese empanadas! Each empanada is approximately packed with:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 10g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates based on the ingredients used, so feel free to tweak the recipe to suit your dietary needs. Whether you’re indulging for a special occasion or just a tasty weeknight treat, knowing what’s in each empanada can help you enjoy them even more!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your filling is cooled before adding it to the dough; this prevents the dough from getting soggy.
- Don’t skip the egg wash—it gives your empanadas that gorgeous golden color and a slight shine!
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped peppers or jalapeños to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
- When sealing the edges, press firmly to avoid any leaks during baking—no one wants a messy empanada!
- If you have leftover filling, save it for tacos or as a topping for nachos—waste not, want not!
- Experiment with different cheeses; a mix of mozzarella and cheddar can add a delightful stretch and flavor.
- Make a double batch and freeze some uncooked empanadas for a quick meal later—just bake them straight from the freezer!
Variations
The beauty of beef cheese empanadas is their versatility! You can easily make them your own by swapping in different ingredients that suit your taste buds. Here are some fun variations to consider:
- Vegetable Medley: Add some finely chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the beef mixture for a burst of color and flavor. This not only enhances the nutrition but also adds a delightful texture!
- Spicy Twist: If you like a little heat, mix in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling. It will add a spicy kick that’ll make your taste buds dance!
- Different Meats: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even shredded pork. Each meat brings its own unique flavor, and you can season them accordingly to match.
- Cheesy Goodness: Experiment with various cheeses! Try a blend of mozzarella for stretchiness and feta for a tangy touch. You could even go for a bit of cream cheese for a rich, creamy filling.
- Sweet and Savory: For an unexpected twist, mix in some finely chopped apples or raisins with the beef. It sounds crazy, but the sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory filling!
- Herbs and Spices: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your spices! Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten up the filling, while spices like oregano or thyme can add depth to the flavor.
- Breakfast Empanadas: Turn these into a breakfast treat by adding scrambled eggs, breakfast sausage, and a sprinkle of cheese. They’re perfect for on-the-go mornings!
With these variations, you can make beef cheese empanadas that fit any occasion or craving. So, gather your ingredients and let your creativity shine!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your delicious beef cheese empanadas ready to go, let’s talk about the best ways to serve them up! Trust me, the right accompaniments can elevate your empanada experience to a whole new level!
- Salsa: A fresh, zesty salsa is a must! Whether you go for a classic tomato salsa, a vibrant mango salsa, or even a spicy tomatillo salsa, the bright flavors will perfectly complement the savory empanadas.
- Dipping Sauces: Don’t stop at salsa! A creamy avocado dip or a tangy cilantro-lime crema can add a rich, luscious dimension. You could also whip up a quick garlic aioli for a gourmet touch.
- Side Salad: A light side salad can add some freshness to your meal. Think mixed greens with a simple vinaigrette, or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad. It’s a great way to balance the richness of the empanadas!
- Pickled Veggies: For a pop of acidity, serve some pickled onions or jalapeños on the side. They add crunch and a tangy kick that pairs wonderfully with the cheesy filling.
- Guacamole: Who can resist guacamole? A scoop of this creamy delight will make every bite of your empanada even more enjoyable. Plus, it’s always a crowd favorite!
- Hot Sauce: If you like it spicy, don’t forget to have some hot sauce on hand. A few drops can really amp up the flavor and give it that extra zing!
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on your mood or the occasion. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these pairings will surely enhance your beef cheese empanadas and make your meal unforgettable!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a delicious batch of beef cheese empanadas, and now you have some leftovers—lucky you! Storing them properly is key to keeping that delightful flavor and texture intact.
To store your empanadas, let them cool completely first. Once they’re cool, place them in an airtight container. You can layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking, which is especially handy if you’ve made a big batch. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you want to save them for later, you can freeze them! Just wrap each uncooked empanada tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, no need to thaw—just bake them straight from the freezer!
Now, when it comes time to reheat, you have a couple of great options:
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the empanadas on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. This method keeps them nice and flaky!
- Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Place the empanada on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out. Heat for about 30-45 seconds, but keep in mind that this method may make the dough a bit softer.
Whichever method you choose, you’re in for a treat. Just remember, the oven is your best friend if you want that crispy texture back. Enjoy your empanadas, even as leftovers—they’re just as delicious!
For more delicious recipes, check out this beef and cheese empanada filling recipe or this creamy garlic pasta recipe for a delightful pairing!
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Beef Cheese Empanadas: 7 Ways to Delight Your Taste Buds
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 empanadas 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Delicious beef and cheese empanadas, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package of empanada dough
- 1 egg, for egg wash
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Add onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened.
- Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix in shredded cheese.
- Roll out the empanada dough and cut into circles.
- Place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each circle.
- Fold the dough over and seal the edges with a fork.
- Brush the tops with egg wash.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
- Serve with salsa or dipping sauce.
- You can freeze uncooked empanadas for later use.
- Feel free to add other spices to taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 empanada
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: beef cheese empanadas
