What makes the perfect weeknight dinner a family favorite? For me, it’s all about quick and easy homemade empanadas filled with tender beef and melted cheese. Save this idea for a deliciously simple meal solution that’s sure to please everyone.

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

Introduction

Imagine a dish that combines the richness of beef, the creaminess of cheese, and the crunch of a perfectly baked pastry, all in one delicious package. Beef and cheese empanadas are a culinary dream come true, offering a flavorful and creative way to enjoy everyday ingredients. With their ease of preparation and impressive presentation, these empanadas are perfect for a quick dinner, a party appetizer, or even a special gift for friends and family. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of beef and cheese empanadas, exploring what makes them so special, the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips for achieving the perfect empanada.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of beef and cheese provides a balanced flavor profile that is both savory and rich, while using easily accessible ingredients.
Ease of preparation: Despite their impressive appearance, empanadas are relatively simple to make, requiring basic cooking skills and minimal special equipment.
Impressive results with minimal effort: With a few simple steps, you can create empanadas that look and taste like they were made by a professional, making them perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for beef and cheese empanadas include ground beef, shredded cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella), empanada dough (which can be homemade or store-bought), and various spices and seasonings. For the filling, you’ll also need onions, garlic, and any other desired herbs or spices. Practical substitutions can be made for the cheese and spices, allowing you to customize the flavor to your liking. For example, you could use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, or add diced bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by preparing the filling. Chop the onions and garlic, and cook the ground beef in a pan until it’s browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Add the chopped onions and garlic to the pan and cook until they’re softened, then stir in any desired spices or seasonings.
Step 2: Once the filling is ready, prepare the empanada dough according to the package instructions or your homemade recipe. If using homemade dough, you’ll need to mix together flour, water, and a pinch of salt, then knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Assemble the empanadas by placing a spoonful of the beef and cheese filling onto the center of a dough circle, then topping with a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Fold the dough in half over the filling, pressing the edges together to seal the empanada. Use a fork to crimp the edges and create a decorative border.
Step 4: Bake the empanadas in a preheated oven until they’re golden brown, or fry them in hot oil until crispy and golden. Serve hot and enjoy!

Handy Tips

To ensure that your empanadas are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, make sure to not overfill them with filling, and seal the edges well to prevent the filling from escaping during cooking.
For an extra crispy crust, you can brush the empanadas with a little bit of egg wash or water before baking or frying.
If you’re having trouble getting the empanada dough to come together, try adding a little bit of warm water or adjusting the amount of flour.

Heat Control

If baking the empanadas, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. If frying, heat about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) of oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (180°C), then fry the empanadas for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until crispy and golden. To ensure that the empanadas are cooked through, check that the filling is hot and the crust is golden brown and crispy.

Crunch Factor

To achieve the perfect crunch factor, make sure to not overbake or overfry the empanadas. If baking, check on them after 10-12 minutes and cover the tops with foil if they’re getting too brown. If frying, don’t overcrowd the pan and adjust the heat as needed to prevent the oil from getting too hot. You can also try brushing the empanadas with a little bit of egg wash or water before cooking to help create a crispy crust.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

To make the empanada dough more pliable and easier to work with, try kneading it for a few minutes until it’s smooth and elastic, then letting it rest for 10-15 minutes before assembling the empanadas.
For a shortcut, you can use pre-made empanada dough or even pie crust, just be sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed.
To clean up quickly, try using a pastry brush to brush off any excess flour or dough from your work surface, and have a damp cloth on hand to wipe down any spills or splatters.

Storage Tips

To store leftover empanadas, allow them to cool completely on a wire rack, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat, simply bake or fry the empanadas until crispy and hot, or microwave for a few seconds until warmed through.
For the best results, use airtight containers or freezer bags to store the empanadas, and be sure to label and date them so you can keep track of how long they’ve been stored.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re giving the empanadas as a gift, consider packaging them in a decorative tin or basket, or wrapping them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and placing them in a gift bag or container. You could also include a few extras, such as a side of salsa or guacamole, or a packet of hot sauce or spices. Whatever you choose, be sure to include a personalized note or card to make the gift extra special.

Flavor Variations

Different spices: Try adding a pinch of cumin or chili powder to the beef filling for a spicy kick, or a sprinkle of paprika for a smoky flavor.
Creative toppings: Top the empanadas with a dollop of sour cream or salsa, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, or a few slices of diced onion or bell pepper.
Ingredient swaps: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, or use different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, for a unique flavor profile.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If the empanadas are too dense or heavy, try adding a little bit of water to the dough or using a higher ratio of cheese to beef in the filling. If they’re too crispy or burnt, try adjusting the cooking time or temperature.
Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have a particular ingredient, try substituting it with something similar. For example, you could use ground pork or lamb instead of beef, or substitute different types of cheese or spices.
Over/undercooking signs: If the empanadas are overcooked, they may be dry or burnt. If they’re undercooked, they may be raw or doughy in the center. Check on them frequently during cooking and adjust the time or temperature as needed to ensure they’re cooked through.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the empanadas before or after cooking. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
Is it gluten-free? The empanada dough typically contains gluten, but you can try using a gluten-free flour blend or substituting with a gluten-free dough recipe. Be sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to make more empanadas. Simply multiply the ingredients and adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure that all of the empanadas are cooked through.

Conclusion

In conclusion, beef and cheese empanadas are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. With their rich flavor, crispy crust, and endless possibilities for customization, they’re perfect for anyone looking to add a little excitement to their meal routine. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, we hope this recipe has inspired you to get creative and start cooking. So go ahead, give it a try, and don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Happy cooking!

Beef Cheese Empanadas