Imagine the perfect bite: a golden, flaky crust that shatters under your teeth, revealing a savory, well-seasoned beef filling oozing with melted cheese. That’s exactly what you get with homemade beef and cheese empanadas. Whether you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a quick grab-and-go meal, this recipe has got you covered.

Empanadas have been a staple in many cultures, originating from Spain and spreading throughout Latin America. Each region has its twist, but today, you’ll learn how to make an irresistibly crispy, cheesy, and flavor-packed version that stands out. Ready to master the art of homemade empanadas? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients Needed for Beef and Cheese Empanadas

Dough Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	2 ½ cups
Butter (cold, diced)	½ cup
Egg	1
Ice-cold water	½ cup
Salt	1 tsp

Filling Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Ground beef	1 pound
Onion (finely chopped)	1 small
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves
Paprika	1 tsp
Cumin	½ tsp
Salt & pepper	To taste
Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)	1 cup
Olive oil	1 tbsp

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Beef and Cheese Empanadas

Making the Dough

In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.
Add cold butter and mix with your hands or a pastry cutter until crumbly.
Add the egg and gradually pour in the cold water, mixing until a dough forms.
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes.

Preparing the Filling

Warm olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Sauté onions and garlic until soft and fragrant.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Season with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Stir in shredded cheese, then remove from heat and let it cool.

Assembling the Empanadas

Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and cut it into circular shapes.
Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle.
Fold over the dough to create a half-moon shape and press the edges with a fork to seal.

Cooking Methods

Baking Method

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place empanadas on a lined baking sheet.
Apply an egg wash for a glossy, golden finish.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Frying Method

Heat oil in a deep pan until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
Fry empanadas in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
Drain on paper towels before serving.

Tips for the Best Beef and Cheese Empanadas

Dough Tips

Use cold butter to achieve a flaky crust.
Refrigerate the dough to keep it from becoming too soft.

Filling Tips

Let the filling cool completely before assembling to prevent soggy dough.
Adjust seasoning to suit your preference.

How to Store and Reheat Empanadas

Storing

Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze raw or cooked empanadas for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Bake: 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Air fry: 325°F (160°C) for 5-7 minutes.

What to Serve with Beef and Cheese Empanadas

Dipping Sauces

Chimichurri – for a fresh, tangy contrast
Spicy salsa – adds a kick of heat
Sour cream – cools down the flavors

Side Dishes

Rice and beans – for a hearty meal
Fresh salad – balances out the richness

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Store-Bought Dough?

Yes! If you’re short on time, pre-made empanada dough or even pie crust will work.

What’s the Best Cheese for Empanadas?

Cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack all provide a great melt and flavor.

Can I Make Empanadas Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Assemble and freeze them before baking for a quick meal later.

How Do I Keep Empanadas Crispy?

Avoid microwaving; instead, reheat in an oven or air fryer.

Conclusion

Beef and cheese empanadas are the perfect mix of crispy, cheesy, and savory. With this step-by-step guide, you now have all the tools to make them at home. Whether baked or fried, these empanadas are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Try this recipe today and share your experience!