Beef and Cheese Empanadas
These savory empanadas feature a golden, flaky pastry filled with seasoned ground beef and melted cheese, creating the perfect handheld meal or appetizer. The combination of tender beef cooked with onions, garlic, and warm spices paired with gooey cheese wrapped in a crispy exterior makes these empanadas irresistible for any occasion.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling Pin
- Fork
- Baking sheet
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup cold butter cubed
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup cold water
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
- 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Mix flour and salt in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Beat egg with cold water and gradually add to flour mixture until dough forms. Wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until browned. Add onion and garlic, cook until softened.
- Season beef mixture with cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes more. Remove from heat and let cool slightly, then stir in cheese.
- Roll dough on floured surface and cut into 6-inch circles. Place 2-3 tablespoons of filling in center of each circle.
- Fold dough over filling and crimp edges with fork to seal. Brush tops with beaten egg.
- Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
Empanadas can be assembled ahead and frozen before baking.
Add 5-10 minutes to baking time if cooking from frozen.
Make sure filling is completely cooled before assembling to prevent dough from becoming soggy.