Introduction
If you’re craving something golden, crispy, and filled with cheesy, savory goodness, Beef And Cheese Empanadas are about to steal your heart (and taste buds). Imagine biting into a perfectly baked pocket bursting with seasoned beef, melty cheese, and a hint of spice—comfort food wrapped in flaky dough.
Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing an easy family dinner, or just want to spice up your meal routine, this recipe will make you the star of your kitchen. Let’s explore how to create these irresistible empanadas from scratch.
1. What Are Beef And Cheese Empanadas?
Empanadas are half-moon-shaped pastries filled with savory (or sometimes sweet) fillings. Originating from Spain and popular throughout Latin America, empanadas are the ultimate comfort snack.
Beef And Cheese Empanadas specifically combine flavorful ground beef with melted cheddar and Pepper Jack cheese inside a flaky, golden crust. The result? A handheld delight that’s crunchy outside and gooey inside.
2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why this Beef And Cheese Empanadas recipe will become a staple in your kitchen:
Easy and quick to make – ready in less than an hour.
Cheesy perfection – a blend of sharp cheddar and Pepper Jack for a rich flavor.
Customizable – add veggies, extra spice, or different cheeses.
Perfect for any occasion – from weeknight dinners to party appetizers.
It’s like a taco and a grilled cheese had a baby—wrapped in golden, flaky dough.
3. Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s exactly what you need to make Beef And Cheese Empanadas:
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 jalapeno, seeds and stem removed, diced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama seasoning
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
8 ounces tomato sauce
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup Pepper Jack cheese, shredded
11.6 ounces empanada dough (such as Goya)
1 large egg
1 tablespoon water
4. Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat, add ground beef, onion, jalapeno, and seasonings. Cook until the meat is no longer pink.
3. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Drain grease and return to the pan.
4. Add tomato sauce, stir, and cook for 15 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk egg and water together to create an egg wash.
6. Wet the edges of the empanada dough lightly with water.
7. Place a small amount of cheese in the center of each dough round, followed by a heaping tablespoon of the meat mixture, and top with more cheese.
8. Fold the dough in half, pinching the edges, and crimp with the tines of a fork.
9. Place on a baking sheet and brush empanadas with the egg wash.
10. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.
Enjoy!
5. Prep Time, Cook Time, and Servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: Makes about 10 empanadas
6. Choosing the Best Ground Beef
For Beef And Cheese Empanadas, the quality of your beef makes all the difference.
Use 80/20 ground beef for the perfect mix of flavor and juiciness.
Leaner beef (90/10) works too but may need a bit of olive oil to retain moisture.
The fat content helps the filling stay rich and tender after baking.
7. The Role of Cheese in Flavor
Cheese isn’t just an ingredient—it’s the soul of this recipe. The sharp cheddar adds a classic tang, while Pepper Jack brings in a creamy, spicy kick.
Mixing the two creates that perfect cheesy pull when you break open your empanada. Think of it as a duet between bold and smooth flavors.
8. Perfecting the Empanada Dough
You can use store-bought Goya empanada dough or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
If making homemade dough:
Mix flour, butter, salt, and cold water until it forms a smooth, pliable texture.
Chill the dough before rolling—it prevents shrinkage while baking.
A flaky crust is key—it’s the canvas that holds your delicious masterpiece.
9. How to Seal Empanadas Properly
Ever had empanadas burst open in the oven? The secret lies in the sealing technique.
Lightly moisten the edge with water before folding.
Press tightly to seal the filling inside.
Use a fork crimp to secure the edges and add that authentic touch.
This simple step ensures every bite stays juicy and mess-free.
10. Baking vs. Frying: Which Is Better?
Both methods yield tasty results, but each offers a different texture:
Baking: Healthier and less greasy, with a light, crispy finish.
Frying: Gives a golden, crunchy shell with a rich, buttery flavor.
If you’re cooking for a crowd, baking is more convenient—you can make a batch all at once.
11. Flavor Variations You Can Try
Once you master the classic Beef And Cheese Empanadas, experiment with variations:
Spicy Version: Add extra jalapenos or cayenne pepper.
Tex-Mex Style: Mix in corn, black beans, or bell peppers.
Cheesy Overload: Add mozzarella or queso fresco.
Sweet & Savory: Mix a bit of BBQ sauce into the beef for a smoky twist.
Cooking should be fun—don’t be afraid to play with flavors!
12. Serving Suggestions
Serve these empanadas with:
Salsa or Pico de Gallo for freshness
Guacamole for creamy richness
Sour cream or spicy mayo for dipping
A side of Mexican rice or salad for a complete meal
They also make great finger food for game nights or picnics.
13. Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep them just as tasty:
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze unbaked empanadas for up to 3 months.
Reheat baked ones in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes—avoid microwaving, as it softens the crust.
Frozen empanadas can go straight into the oven—just add a few extra minutes of baking time.
14. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overfilling the dough – causes leaks during baking.
Skipping the egg wash – leads to pale, dull empanadas.
Not draining grease – makes the filling soggy.
Using cold cheese – room-temperature cheese melts better.
Underbaking – always wait for that golden-brown crust!
Avoid these mistakes, and your empanadas will come out picture-perfect.
15. Final Thoughts
Beef And Cheese Empanadas are a celebration of flavor—simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. They’re cheesy, spicy, hearty, and wonderfully satisfying.
Whether baked for dinner or made ahead for snacks, these empanadas are sure to become one of your go-to comfort foods. Every bite tells a story of tradition and love—wrapped in flaky perfection.
FAQs About Beef And Cheese Empanadas
1. Can I make Beef And Cheese Empanadas ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and fill them, then refrigerate or freeze before baking. When ready, just pop them in the oven.
2. What’s the best dipping sauce for Beef And Cheese Empanadas?
They pair beautifully with salsa, guacamole, chipotle mayo, or sour cream.
3. Can I use other meats instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pulled pork work great as substitutes.
4. How do I prevent my empanadas from getting soggy?
Drain excess grease from the beef, and avoid overfilling. Bake until golden for the best texture.
5. Can I air-fry Beef And Cheese Empanadas?
Yes, air fry at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes until golden and crispy—no need to deep fry!
