Beef and Cheese Empanadas: A Flavor-Packed, Savory Delight

Golden, flaky pastry filled with rich, savory beef and melted cheese creates a snack that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Beef and Cheese Empanadas are more than just a treat—they’re a celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures. The combination of seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and aromatic spices wrapped in a perfectly baked crust makes every bite a little piece of heaven.

Empanadas have a rich cultural history, appearing in Latin American, Spanish, and Filipino cuisines, each with its own unique twist. Making them at home allows you to customize fillings, spices, and pastry textures to suit your taste. Whether served as appetizers at a party, a snack for game day, or a main dish with a side salad, these empanadas are versatile and crowd-pleasing.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a table with the ingredients and approximate calorie counts per serving:

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories
Ground beef (85% lean)	1 lb (450 g)	960
Onion, finely chopped	1 medium	45
Garlic, minced	3 cloves	15
Bell pepper, diced	½ cup	15
Tomato paste	2 tbsp	30
Worcestershire sauce	1 tbsp	15
Chili powder	1 tsp	5
Ground cumin	1 tsp	8
Salt	½ tsp	0
Black pepper	½ tsp	0
Shredded cheddar cheese	1 cup	455
Refrigerated pie dough or empanada dough	2 sheets (8-inch)	600
Egg (for egg wash)	1	70
Olive oil	1 tbsp	120

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cook the Beef Filling
   Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and bell pepper, cooking until softened. Add ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned.
3. Add Seasonings
   Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
4. Assemble the Empanadas
   Roll out the dough and cut into 4–6 inch circles. Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the beef mixture onto each circle, then sprinkle shredded cheddar on top. Fold dough over to create a half-moon shape and press edges with a fork to seal.
5. Brush with Egg Wash
   Beat the egg and brush over the top of each empanada to give them a golden, glossy finish.
6. Bake the Empanadas
   Place empanadas on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve Warm
   Let empanadas cool slightly before serving, so the filling sets and doesn’t spill out.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

• Cheese Options: Use mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses for different flavors.
• Spice Level: Add jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce for heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or black beans.
• Dough Alternatives: Make homemade empanada dough or use puff pastry for extra flakiness.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked empanadas for up to 2 months; bake straight from frozen.

Nutritional Information (Per Empanada – Approximate)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	~350
Protein	18 g
Carbohydrates	28 g
Fat	20 g
Fiber	2 g
Sodium	Moderate

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping.
• Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Ideal as appetizers at parties or game-day snacks.
• Great for meal prep—store in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

FAQs

1. Can I make Beef and Cheese Empanadas ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the empanadas in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. They also freeze well before baking for up to 2 months.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely. Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend work wonderfully. Mix cheeses for extra flavor and meltiness.

3. How can I make these empanadas spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture to give your empanadas a kick. Adjust to your spice preference.

4. Can I make a vegetarian version?

Yes! Substitute beef with sautéed mushrooms, black beans, lentils, or a combination of vegetables. Keep the cheese for flavor or use a plant-based cheese for a vegan option.

5. What dough works best for empanadas?

Refrigerated pie dough, puff pastry, or homemade empanada dough all work. For a flakier texture, puff pastry is ideal; for a traditional taste, use classic empanada dough.

Conclusion

Beef and Cheese Empanadas are a delicious, versatile, and satisfying dish that combines the comforting flavors of seasoned beef, melted cheese, and a golden, flaky crust. Perfect for family dinners, entertaining guests, or quick snacks, they are easy to make at home and infinitely customizable. With a balance of rich flavor, crispy texture, and savory goodness, these empanadas are sure to become a favorite in any kitchen.