Homemade beef & cheese empanadas

Indulge in the flavors of homemade Beef & Cheese Empanadas with this mouthwatering recipe. These savory hand pies are filled with seasoned ground beef, aromatic spices, and a blend of cheeses, all wrapped in a golden, flaky crust that’s sure to satisfy any craving.

Ingredients :

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 1/2 tsp garlic salt
• 1 tsp Slap Ya Mama® seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
• 1 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/4 tsp chili powder
• 8 oz can tomato sauce
• 1 Tbsp diced jalapeños (optional for a spicy kick)
• 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated
• 2 boxes Pillsbury™ Refrigerated Pie Crust
• 1 egg
• Flour, for dusting

Instructions :

1. Prepare the Filling: In a large frying pan or cast iron skillet, cook ground beef, chopped onions, and minced garlic over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess grease and return the mixture to the pan.
2. Season and Simmer: Sprinkle ground cumin, garlic salt, Slap Ya Mama® seasoning, pepper, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and chili powder over the beef mixture. Stir in tomato sauce and diced jalapeños. Let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). On a lightly floured surface, unroll the pie crusts. Use a 4-inch bowl turned upside down to cut out circles from the dough. Each pie crust should yield about 4 circles.
4. Assemble the Empanadas: Moisten the edges of each dough circle with water to help seal them. Place a small amount of grated cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese in the center of each circle, then top with about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together with a fork to seal. Place the filled empanadas on a baking sheet.
5. Add the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water. Use a basting brush to lightly coat the tops of each empanada with the egg wash. This will give them a golden-brown color when baked.
6. Bake to Perfection: Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the empanadas from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these delicious Beef & Cheese Empanadas on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce.

Serving Tips :

1. Serve Hot or Cold: Enjoy empanadas fresh out of the oven for a crispy crust and warm, gooey cheese filling. They can also be served at room temperature for a convenient snack or appetizer.
2. Dipping Sauces: Pair empanadas with dipping sauces like salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a tangy chimichurri sauce to complement the savory flavors.
3. Garnish Options: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro, green onions, or a squeeze of lime juice over empanadas before serving for added freshness and flavor.
4. Accompaniments: Serve empanadas alongside a fresh salad, rice and beans, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage Tips :

1. Refrigeration: Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container or sealed plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Reheating: To reheat, place empanadas on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps maintain their crispy texture.
3. Freezing: Empanadas can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the empanadas, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
4. Make-Ahead: Prepare the empanadas up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows flavors to meld and makes for a quicker meal prep.
5. Refreshing Leftovers: If reheating refrigerated empanadas, cover them with a damp paper towel and microwave in 20-30 second intervals until heated through. This helps retain moisture.

These serving and storage tips will help your readers enjoy Homemade Beef & Cheese Empanadas at their best, whether freshly baked, reheated, or prepared ahead for convenience. They enhance the article’s value by offering practical advice on presentation and preservation, ensuring a delicious experience every time.

Variations :

1. Chicken and Cheese Empanadas: Substitute ground beef with shredded cooked chicken. Season with taco seasoning or your favorite herbs and spices. Mix with grated cheese and diced green chilies for a flavorful twist.
2. Vegetarian Empanadas: Replace ground beef with a mix of sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, corn, and black beans. Add shredded cheese and a dash of smoked paprika for a robust vegetarian option.
3. Breakfast Empanadas: Fill empanadas with scrambled eggs, crumbled cooked breakfast sausage, and cheddar cheese. Serve with salsa or sour cream for a satisfying morning meal.
4. Seafood Empanadas: Use cooked shrimp or crab meat mixed with diced bell peppers, onions, and a creamy cheese sauce. Season with Old Bay seasoning or Cajun spices for a flavorful seafood delight.
5. Spinach and Cheese Empanadas: Sauté spinach with garlic until wilted, then mix with ricotta cheese and grated Parmesan. Season with nutmeg and black pepper for a creamy, vegetarian-friendly filling.
6. Pizza Empanadas: Fill empanadas with marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, and diced bell peppers. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning before baking for a pizza-inspired treat.
7. Spicy Beef Empanadas: Amp up the heat by adding diced jalapeños or green chilies to the ground beef mixture. Include pepper jack cheese for an extra kick of spice.
8. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Empanadas: Combine mashed sweet potatoes with black beans, corn, and diced green chilies. Season with cumin, chili powder, and cilantro for a hearty vegetarian option.
9. Buffalo Chicken Empanadas: Mix shredded cooked chicken with buffalo sauce and cream cheese. Add crumbled blue cheese and diced celery for a tangy and spicy filling.
10. Caprese Empanadas: Fill empanadas with sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving for a gourmet twist.

These variations offer a range of flavors and ingredients to suit different tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring that everyone can enjoy delicious homemade empanadas. Experiment with these ideas to create unique and flavorful variations of Beef & Cheese Empanadas for any occasion.

FAQs :

1. What are empanadas?
   • Empanadas are a popular Latin American pastry filled with various ingredients such as meat, cheese, vegetables, or fruits, folded into a half-moon shape and baked or fried until golden brown.
2. Can I make empanadas ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the empanadas up to the point of baking, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze assembled empanadas for later baking.
3. How do I seal empanadas properly?
   • To seal empanadas, moisten the edges of the dough with water or beaten egg. Press the edges together firmly and use a fork to crimp the edges. This helps prevent filling from leaking during baking.
4. Can I bake frozen empanadas directly?
   • Yes, you can bake frozen empanadas directly from the freezer. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time, checking periodically until they are golden brown and heated through.
5. What dipping sauces go well with beef and cheese empanadas?
   • Beef and cheese empanadas pair well with salsa verde, chimichurri sauce, sour cream, or a spicy tomato sauce for dipping.
6. How do I prevent empanadas from becoming soggy?
   • To prevent empanadas from becoming soggy, ensure the filling is not too watery and avoid overfilling the dough. Properly seal the edges and bake at a high temperature to achieve a crispy crust.
7. Can I use store-bought pie crust for empanadas?
   • Yes, you can use store-bought pie crust or refrigerated dough for empanadas for convenience. Follow the same instructions for filling and sealing.
8. Are empanadas typically baked or fried?
   • Empanadas can be baked or fried depending on personal preference and regional variations. Baking is a healthier option that still yields a crispy crust.
9. What can I serve with beef and cheese empanadas?
   • Serve beef and cheese empanadas with a side of rice and beans, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. They also make a great appetizer or snack on their own.
10. How do I store leftover empanadas?
    • Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven for best results to maintain their crispy texture.

These FAQs provide helpful information and solutions to common questions about Homemade Beef & Cheese Empanadas, enhancing the article’s value by addressing reader concerns and ensuring a successful cooking experience.

These Beef & Cheese Empanadas are perfect for a savory snack, appetizer, or even a main course. Their crispy crust and flavorful filling make them a hit for family gatherings or game day parties. Follow this easy recipe to create homemade empanadas that are sure to impress!