Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Beef & Cheese Empanadas

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 empanadas 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: baking
  • Cuisine: latin

Description

These Beef & Cheese Empanadas are golden, flaky pastries stuffed with flavorful ground beef, melted cheese, and savory spices. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a quick meal!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil 🫒
  • 1 lb ground beef 🍖
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped 🧅
  • 1 clove garlic, minced 🧄
  • 1 teaspoon cumin 🌿
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika 🌶️
  • Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) 🧀
  • 1 package empanada dough (store-bought or homemade) 🥟
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 🥚


Instructions

  • Prepare the Filling:
    Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
  • Season the Beef:
    Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Remove the beef mixture from heat and let it cool slightly. Once cooled, mix in the shredded cheese.
  • Assemble the Empanadas:
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the empanada dough (if using homemade) and cut into circles. Place a spoonful of the beef and cheese filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
  • Egg Wash and Bake:
    Brush the top of each empanada with the beaten egg for a golden finish. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Bake:
    Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.
  • Serve:
    Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce!

Notes

  • You can use any type of shredded cheese you like, but cheddar and mozzarella are the most common for this recipe.
  • If you want to make the dough from scratch, be sure to make it ahead of time to allow it to rest.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 empanada
  • Calories: 270kcal
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 17g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 19g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 13g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg