Beef & Cheese Empanadas – Crispy, Cheesy, and Irresistible

Beef and cheese empanadas are a beloved dish across Latin America and beyond, offering a perfect balance of crispy, golden pastry and a rich, savory filling. Whether baked or fried, these handheld delights make for an irresistible snack, appetizer, or even a main course. They are packed with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and a combination of aromatic spices that create a mouthwatering experience with every bite.

Empanadas have been a staple in many cultures for centuries, evolving into countless variations based on regional ingredients and traditions. From Argentina’s classic beef empanadas to the spicy, cheese-filled versions in Mexico, these pastries are versatile and endlessly customizable. The combination of a flaky, buttery crust with a hearty filling makes them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

One of the best things about empanadas is their ease of preparation. You can make the dough from scratch for a more authentic touch or opt for store-bought wrappers if you’re short on time. The filling can also be adjusted to suit different tastes—whether you prefer a spicy kick, a cheesier texture, or even a vegetarian option.

Perfect for parties, gatherings, or meal prepping, beef and cheese empanadas can be made ahead and stored for future cravings. Plus, they pair beautifully with various dipping sauces, such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about making beef and cheese empanadas, from selecting the best ingredients to expert tips for achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with these beef and cheese empanadas. First and foremost, they offer an unbeatable combination of textures and flavors. The crispy, golden-brown exterior gives way to a rich and cheesy beef filling that is seasoned to perfection. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by the warm, gooey goodness of melted cheese and savory beef.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can customize the filling to include additional ingredients like sautéed vegetables, chopped olives, or even spicy jalapeños for an extra kick. The dough can also be modified by adding herbs or spices, giving it an extra depth of flavor.

Empanadas are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a quick weeknight meal, or looking for a satisfying snack, these pastries fit the bill. They are also great for meal prepping, as they can be made in large batches and stored for later use.

Additionally, this recipe is beginner-friendly. Even if you’ve never made empanadas before, the step-by-step instructions make the process easy to follow. With a little practice, you’ll be able to create beautifully golden empanadas with perfectly sealed edges that keep all the delicious filling inside.

Finally, these empanadas can be baked or fried, allowing you to choose the cooking method that best suits your preference. Baking results in a lighter, less greasy empanada, while frying gives you that classic crispy texture. Either way, you’re in for a treat.

Health Benefits

While beef and cheese empanadas are undoubtedly indulgent, they also offer several nutritional benefits. The ground beef provides a rich source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and overall health. It also contains important nutrients such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins, all of which play a crucial role in maintaining energy levels and immune function.

Cheese adds calcium, which is vital for bone health, as well as protein and healthy fats that contribute to satiety. Depending on the type of cheese used, you can also benefit from probiotics that support gut health.

If you choose to bake your empanadas instead of frying them, you can significantly reduce the overall fat content, making them a lighter yet still delicious option. Additionally, using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for the dough can increase fiber intake, aiding digestion and promoting long-lasting energy.

Adding vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and garlic enhances the nutrient profile of the filling. These ingredients provide vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, which are essential for maintaining overall health.

For those looking to make an even healthier version, substitutions such as ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, or reduced-fat cheese, can be used. This allows you to enjoy the same great flavors while cutting down on saturated fats and calories.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes for chilling the dough)
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Servings:
This recipe yields approximately 10-12 empanadas, depending on the size of the dough circles.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Baked Version):

• Calories: 250-300
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 400mg

Ingredients List

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup diced bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

The Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup butter, cubed and chilled
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup cold water

 Baking/Frying:

• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Oil for frying (if frying)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the cold water, stirring until the dough begins to come together. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for a few minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the diced onions, minced garlic, and bell peppers, stirring until softened. Season with paprika, cumin, and salt. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before mixing in the shredded cheese.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
After chilling, roll out the dough on a floured surface until it is about ⅛-inch thick. Use a round cutter or a small bowl to cut out circles approximately 4 inches in diameter.

Step 4: Fill and Seal the Empanadas
Place a spoonful of the beef and cheese mixture in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Press the edges together and seal with a fork to ensure they stay closed during cooking.

Step 5: Cook the Empanadas
For baking, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush each empanada with an egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
For frying, heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the empanadas for about 2 minutes per side, until crispy and golden. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Let the empanadas cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for extra flavor.

How to Serve

Empanadas are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven or fryer. They can be served as a main dish with a side salad or as an appetizer with dipping sauces such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.

Pairing Suggestions

Pair with a crisp salad, a cold beer, or a refreshing lemonade for a balanced meal. They also go well with rice and beans for a more filling option.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place uncooked empanadas on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making beef and cheese empanadas, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Avoiding these pitfalls will ensure that your empanadas turn out perfectly crispy, flavorful, and well-sealed.

One of the biggest mistakes is not chilling the dough properly. If you skip this step or rush it, the dough may become too soft and sticky, making it difficult to work with. Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes ensures that it rolls out smoothly and holds its shape when filled.

Another common issue is overfilling the empanadas. While it’s tempting to add extra beef and cheese for a more satisfying bite, too much filling makes it difficult to seal the edges properly. Overfilled empanadas can burst open during baking or frying, causing the cheese and meat to spill out.

Not sealing the edges well is another problem. If the dough is not firmly pressed together, the empanadas may open while cooking. To prevent this, use a fork to crimp the edges securely, or brush the edges with a bit of water or egg wash before sealing.

Some people also use too much flour when rolling out the dough, which can make it dry and tough. Instead, use just enough flour to prevent sticking without drying out the dough.

When frying, using oil that is not hot enough can result in greasy empanadas. The oil should be heated to about 350°F (175°C) before adding the empanadas. If the oil is too cool, the dough will absorb excess oil and become soggy instead of crispy.

Lastly, not letting the filling cool before assembling can make the dough difficult to work with. If the filling is too hot, it can soften the dough, making it prone to tearing. Allowing the filling to cool slightly before assembling ensures a smooth process.

Pro Tips

To take your beef and cheese empanadas to the next level, consider these expert tips.

For a flakier crust, use very cold butter and cold water when making the dough. Some people even chill their flour beforehand for an extra crisp texture. If you want an ultra-flaky texture, you can also add a small amount of vinegar to the dough, which helps prevent gluten development.

If you’re looking for a more flavorful filling, try adding finely chopped olives, hard-boiled eggs, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce. These ingredients enhance the depth of flavor and give the filling an authentic Latin American touch.

To ensure your empanadas are evenly cooked, arrange them in a single layer when baking and rotate the tray halfway through cooking. This guarantees even browning on all sides. If frying, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy empanadas.

If you’re making a large batch, consider freezing unbaked empanadas for quick future meals. Simply place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

For a beautiful golden crust, always use an egg wash before baking. You can mix the egg with a tablespoon of milk for an even richer color.

If you want to make the cheese extra gooey, opt for cheeses that melt well, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Oaxaca cheese. Mixing different cheeses can also add a unique twist to the filling.

For an extra crispy fried empanada, drain them on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This prevents them from becoming soggy as they cool.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use store-bought empanada dough?
Yes, store-bought empanada wrappers work well if you’re short on time. You can find them in the frozen section of most grocery stores. Just make sure to thaw them before using.

2. Can I bake instead of fry the empanadas?
Absolutely! Baking is a great alternative to frying, especially if you want a lighter version. Brush them with egg wash and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

3. What type of cheese works best for these empanadas?
Cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and Oaxaca cheese are excellent choices. These cheeses melt well and provide a deliciously gooey filling.

4. Can I make the empanadas ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble them and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking or frying. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

5. How do I reheat leftover empanadas?
To keep them crispy, reheat empanadas in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. If using a microwave, place them on a plate with a paper towel and heat in short bursts to avoid sogginess.

6. Can I make vegetarian empanadas?
Definitely! You can substitute the beef with mushrooms, black beans, lentils, or a mixture of sautéed vegetables. The cheese can remain the same, or you can add extra veggies for a healthier version.

7. Why are my empanadas soggy?
Sogginess can be caused by excess moisture in the filling or not sealing the edges properly. Make sure the filling is not too wet, and always allow the empanadas to cool slightly before eating.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Beef and cheese empanadas are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for any occasion. With their crispy, golden crust and savory, cheesy filling, they are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you choose to bake or fry them, these empanadas are easy to make and can be customized to your taste.

By following the step-by-step instructions and tips outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to create perfect empanadas every time. From choosing the best ingredients to mastering the art of sealing and cooking them, you now have all the knowledge needed to make this dish a success.

Now it’s time to try making these empanadas yourself! Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the satisfaction of biting into a freshly made empanada. Share your experience with friends and family, and don’t forget to experiment with different fillings and flavors.

If you loved this recipe, be sure to share it with others who enjoy cooking. Leave a comment with your favorite empanada variation, and let us know how yours turned out. Happy cooking!

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