If you’re searching for a fun, crowd-pleasing dish that never fails to delight, Beef and Cheese Empanadas are guaranteed to hit the spot. Imagine biting into a golden, flaky pocket bursting with savory ground beef, melted cheese, and just the right blend of spices—all wrapped up in a handheld treat perfect for parties, family dinners, or even savory snacking. The balance of bold Latin flavors and irresistible textures makes Beef and Cheese Empanadas a recipe you’ll want to bookmark and revisit, again and again.

Beef and Cheese Empanadas Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The lineup of ingredients for Beef and Cheese Empanadas might look simple, but each one plays a crucial role in making the flavors sing. Every element—from smoky spices to stretchy cheese—helps build that signature taste and tell its own part of this empanada story.

Olive oil: Cultivates rich depth in the beef filling and prevents dryness.
Ground beef (1/2 pound): The star of the show, offering juicy, hearty flavor in every bite.
Onion (finely diced): Adds sweetness and a touch of crunch, bringing balance to the filling.
Garlic (minced, 2 cloves): Enhances both aroma and taste, infusing the beef with irresistible savoriness.
Ground cumin (1/2 teaspoon): Delivers earthy warmth and classic Latin character.
Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Provides gentle smokiness that makes the beef pop.
Chili powder (1/4 teaspoon): Lends subtle heat that elevates without overpowering.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for amplifying all the nuanced flavors.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Introduces mild heat and ties the flavors together.
Tomato sauce (1/4 cup): Moistens the meat and delivers gentle tang.
Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (1/2 cup): Melts beautifully for a creamy, cheesy surprise inside.
Refrigerated empanada dough rounds or pie dough (10 rounds, 5-inch): Creates that signature golden, flaky shell.
Egg (beaten, for egg wash): Gives the pastries a glossy, appetizing finish as they bake.

How to Make Beef and Cheese Empanadas

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet

To get started, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a sturdy baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and promises picture-perfect empanadas with crisp, golden bottoms every time.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatic Filling

Set a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil, and gently sauté the diced onion for 2 to 3 minutes until it softens and turns fragrant. Sprinkle in the minced garlic, cooking just 30 seconds more to unlock that lovely aroma. Now crumble in the ground beef, stirring and breaking it up as it browns. Once the beef loses its pink, add the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together, then pour in the tomato sauce for a touch of tang. Let it simmer a couple of minutes until the sauce thickens up. Remove the skillet from heat and allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes before the next step—this will keep your cheese from melting too soon.

Step 3: Stir in the Cheese

With the beef mixture slightly cooled, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese and gently mix to combine. The residual heat will soften the cheese just enough, making the filling deliciously creamy and perfect for stuffing into your empanada shells.

Step 4: Assemble the Beef and Cheese Empanadas

Lay out your empanada dough rounds (or pie dough circles) and spoon a mound of the beef and cheese filling right in the center of each one—about 2 tablespoons per round. Fold each dough round over the filling to create a half-moon shape, then press the edges with a fork to seal tight. This fork press not only keeps everything contained but adds a pretty crimped look.

Step 5: Apply Egg Wash and Arrange for Baking

Transfer the assembled empanadas to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops evenly with the beaten egg—this step gives them that irresistible golden sheen after baking. Arrange them with a little space between each so they crisp evenly all around.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pop your tray into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. When they’re ready, the empanadas will be gorgeously golden and crisp. Let them rest for a few minutes before picking up and biting in, as the cheese inside will be molten hot and incredibly tempting.

How to Serve Beef and Cheese Empanadas

Garnishes

Top your Beef and Cheese Empanadas with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or diced green onions for a fresh touch of color and a bit of zip. If you want to get fancy, add a little crumbled queso fresco or a drizzle of cooling sour cream right before serving.

Side Dishes

These empanadas are delicious on their own, but they truly shine when paired with simple side dishes like zesty salsa, creamy guacamole, or a crisp salad tossed with lime. For a heartier meal, try a side of black beans, rice, or charred corn—these flavors play beautifully with the rich filling.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, arrange your Beef and Cheese Empanadas on a wooden platter surrounded by brightly colored dipping sauces. For family dinners, serve with a side of seasoned fries and extra cheese sprinkled on top. You can also tuck them into a lunchbox as a playful, packable treat that stays satisfying even at room temperature.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow wind up with leftover Beef and Cheese Empanadas (which isn’t likely!), let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep their best texture for up to three days—perfect for a make-ahead snack or lunch option.

Freezing

The best part about this recipe is its freezer-friendliness. You can freeze unbaked empanadas in a single layer on a tray until firm, then transfer them to a zip-top bag for long-term storage. When you’re craving one, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5 to 7 minutes to your bake time for perfectly crispy results.

Reheating

To revive day-old empanadas, just pop them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This brings back their signature flakiness and gooey cheese. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy—a quick oven reheat is always best.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully as a substitute if you prefer a lighter filling. Just be sure to add a little oil and taste for seasoning, as turkey tends to be milder than beef.

What’s the best cheese for Beef and Cheese Empanadas?

Cheddar and Monterey Jack are both stellar options, but feel free to experiment—mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a smoky gouda can add their own unique twist. The key is choosing a cheese that melts well and complements the beef filling.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling a day or two in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, then let it come to room temp before assembling your Beef and Cheese Empanadas for best results.

What dipping sauces go best with these empanadas?

Classic salsa, creamy guacamole, chipotle mayo, or even a tangy chimichurri make ideal partners for Beef and Cheese Empanadas. Mix and match to find your favorite combination!

How do I prevent the empanadas from bursting open during baking?

Be sure to not overfill each dough round and always seal the edges firmly with a fork. Brushing an egg wash on the seam can also help create a secure seal, keeping all the goodness tucked inside while baking.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a lifelong empanada fan or a newcomer looking for your next obsession, these Beef and Cheese Empanadas are impossible not to love. Their warm, melty centers and flaky crusts bring comfort and excitement to every bite. Gather your ingredients, invite friends or family, and give these savory pockets a try—you’ll be hooked from the very first batch!