What’s the secret to a perfect weeknight dinner? It starts with simple, homemade empanadas filled with tender beef and melted cheese, baked to perfection. Try this easy recipe for a quick family favorite, Save this idea

beef and cheese empanadas on a blue plate with text overlay that reads beef and cheese empanadas

Introduction

Imagine a dish that combines the savory flavors of beef, the creaminess of cheese, and the flaky texture of pastry, all in one delightful package. Beef and cheese empanadas are a culinary masterpiece that can be easily made at home, using everyday ingredients that are both accessible and affordable. This recipe is perfect for those looking to spice up their meal routine with a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great option for both family dinners and social gatherings. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, beef and cheese empanadas are sure to become a favorite among both kids and adults alike.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of ground beef, cheese, and spices creates a flavor profile that is both rich and balanced, while the ingredients are easy to find in most grocery stores.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive presentation, beef and cheese empanadas are relatively simple to make, requiring basic cooking skills and minimal preparation time.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The end result is a dish that looks and tastes like it was made by a professional chef, but requires only a fraction of the time and effort, making it perfect for busy home cooks.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for beef and cheese empanadas include ground beef, cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella), empanada dough (which can be homemade or store-bought), onions, garlic, and spices like cumin and paprika. For a practical substitution, ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of beef, and different types of cheese can be mixed and matched to achieve the desired flavor. Additionally, for those looking for a gluten-free option, gluten-free empanada dough can be used.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, chop the onions and garlic, and cook the ground beef in a pan until it is browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Step 2: Add the chopped onions and garlic to the pan with the ground beef, and cook until the onions are translucent. Then, add the spices and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Step 3: Roll out the empanada dough, and use a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out circles of dough. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture onto the center of each dough circle, and top with a sprinkle of cheese. Fold the dough in half to form a half-moon shape, and press the edges together to seal the empanada.
4. Step 4: Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and brush the tops with a little bit of egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a splash of water). Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Serve hot and enjoy!

Handy Tips

• When working with empanada dough, make sure to keep it cold, as this will help it to hold its shape and prevent it from becoming too sticky to work with. Additionally, don’t overfill the empanadas, as this can cause them to burst open in the oven.

Heat Control

When cooking the ground beef, make sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks, and stir constantly to prevent burning. The ideal temperature for cooking the beef is medium-high heat, and it should be cooked until it is no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. When baking the empanadas, the oven should be preheated to 375°F (190°C), and they should be cooked for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in beef and cheese empanadas comes from the flaky empanada dough, which should be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. To achieve this, make sure to not overwork the dough, and to bake the empanadas in the oven until they are golden brown. Additionally, the cheese should be melted and slightly browned, adding an extra layer of texture to the dish.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• One pro kitchen trick for making beef and cheese empanadas is to use a variety of cheeses, such as cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan, to create a rich and complex flavor profile. Another trick is to add some diced bell peppers or chopped fresh cilantro to the beef mixture, to add some extra flavor and texture.

Storage Tips

• Beef and cheese empanadas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and can be reheated in the oven or microwave until hot and crispy. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months, and can be baked straight from the freezer for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Gift Packaging Ideas

Beef and cheese empanadas make a great gift, especially when packaged in a decorative tin or basket. To add an extra touch, consider including a side of salsa or guacamole, or a small bag of chips or crackers. The empanadas can be wrapped individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and can be placed in a gift bag or box with some decorative tissue paper and a gift card.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices, such as cumin, paprika, and chili powder, can be used to create a variety of flavor profiles. Additionally, different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, can be used to add a tangy and creamy element to the dish.
• Creative toppings, such as diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and sliced avocado, can be used to add some extra flavor and texture to the empanadas. Ingredient swaps, such as using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, can also be used to create a variety of different flavor profiles.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems, such as empanadas that are too dense or too crispy, can be solved by adjusting the amount of water in the dough, or by baking the empanadas for a shorter or longer amount of time. Ingredient replacements, such as using gluten-free empanada dough, can also be used to create a variety of different flavor profiles.
• Over/undercooking signs, such as empanadas that are too brown or too pale, can be solved by adjusting the baking time, or by using a thermometer to ensure that the empanadas are cooked to the correct temperature.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, beef and cheese empanadas can be frozen for up to 2 months, and can be baked straight from the freezer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
• Is it gluten-free? Yes, beef and cheese empanadas can be made with gluten-free empanada dough, making them a great option for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, the recipe for beef and cheese empanadas can be easily doubled or tripled, making it a great option for large gatherings or parties.

Conclusion

In conclusion, beef and cheese empanadas are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for both family dinners and social gatherings. With its rich and complex flavor profile, and its flaky and crispy texture, this dish is sure to become a favorite among both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, or a dish to serve at a party or gathering, beef and cheese empanadas are a great option. So why not give them a try, and see what you’ve been missing!