There’s something irresistibly comforting about biting into golden, flaky pockets stuffed with savory, melty filling—and, trust me, Cheesy Ground Beef Empanadas are the ultimate example. Each one is a handheld parcel bursting with juicy beef, gooey cheese, and a pop of gentle spices, all encased in a crispy pastry. This recipe takes humble ingredients and transforms them into a party-friendly, family-approved treat you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re hosting a cozy get-together or searching for a new weeknight favorite, these empanadas are about to become your go-to delight.

Cheesy Ground Beef Empanadas Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Cheesy Ground Beef Empanadas is in how a few simple pantry staples come together to create something truly memorable. Every ingredient plays a role: from the rich ground beef to the creamy cheese and crisp pastry, it all adds layers of flavor and texture you’ll crave.

Ground beef: Choose 80/20 ground beef for the perfect rich, tender filling that stays moist.
Shredded cheese: A mild cheddar or Monterey Jack melts beautifully and brings gooey comfort in every bite.
Onion: Sautéed diced onion adds sweetness and depth that balances the richness of the meat and cheese.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides that little spark of savory flavor that takes the filling over the top.
Bell pepper: Diced bell pepper adds a gentle crunch and a splash of color that brightens up the filling.
Tomato paste: Just a spoonful brings a satisfying tang and helps meld the flavors together.
Ground cumin: This spice brings a warm, earthy flavor that makes the beef deeply savory.
Chili powder: Adds a subtle kick and beautiful color—adjust to your taste for heat.
Salt and pepper: Don’t skimp—seasoning brings everything to life.
Empanada dough rounds: Use store-bought for ease, or make your own for an extra-special touch.
Egg (for egg wash): Brushing the empanadas before baking gives them that signature golden, glossy crust.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Empanadas

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by warming a large skillet over medium heat, then toss in your diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté them gently, stirring often, until the onion turns translucent and both veggies are tender. This initial step builds the foundation of flavor so every bite is delicious from the inside out.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to your skillet and break it up with a spoon or spatula as it browns. Cook until no pink remains, making sure to drain off any excess fat. This keeps your Cheesy Ground Beef Empanadas filling rich without being greasy.

Step 3: Flavor the Filling

Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, ground cumin, chili powder, and a good pinch each of salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly and let it cook for another minute or two, letting those spices bloom and marry with the beef and veggies.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Once the filling is nicely flavorful, remove the skillet from the heat and fold in the shredded cheese. The residual warmth will melt the cheese into creamy ribbons, binding the beef and veggies together in mouthwatering harmony.

Step 5: Fill and Seal the Empanadas

Lay out your empanada dough rounds on a clean, lightly floured surface. Spoon a generous tablespoon of the beef and cheese filling into the center of each round, but don’t overfill—they’ll need room to seal. Fold the dough over, press the edges with a fork, and be sure no filling escapes for the perfect handheld treats.

Step 6: Egg Wash for Golden Perfection

Beat an egg with a splash of water to make your egg wash, then brush it gently over the top of each empanada. This step is the secret to that beautiful golden shine and a whisper-thin crunch.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Arrange your empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until beautifully golden brown and crisp. Let them cool ever so slightly before serving—if you can resist diving in right away!

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Empanadas

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley adds a pop of color and fresh flavor to your Cheesy Ground Beef Empanadas. For a tangy finish, drizzle with a bit of crema or serve with a quick squeeze of lime over the top—it makes every flavor sing.

Side Dishes

For a complete meal that feels festive, pair these empanadas with sides like crisp green salad, zesty pico de gallo, or a bowl of creamy guacamole. Black beans and rice also work beautifully to soak up every last bit of flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Set up a build-your-own empanada bar for parties: arrange your freshly baked Cheesy Ground Beef Empanadas on a platter surrounded by colorful salsas, extra cheese, and chopped veggies. For a tapas-style spread, serve them cut in half on a wooden board with toothpicks for easy sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Cheesy Ground Beef Empanadas in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The pastry holds up beautifully, and the filling stays delicious even after chilling—just let them cool completely before storing to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

These empanadas are fabulous for freezing! Once baked and cooled, arrange them in a single layer on a tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a bag or container. You can reheat them straight from frozen for an easy weekday treat or a last-minute party snack.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat your Cheesy Ground Beef Empanadas in a preheated oven or toaster oven at 350°F until warmed through and crisp on the outside. Avoid the microwave if you can—it tends to soften the pastry.

FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Ground Beef Empanadas ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare and fill the empanadas, then refrigerate them unbaked, tightly covered, for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving for the freshest taste and the crispiest crust.

What type of cheese works best in the filling?

A good melting cheese like mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella gives you that gooey, stretchy texture everyone loves. You can also try a Mexican blend or even a smoky gouda for a twist.

How do I keep the empanada edges from popping open while baking?

Make sure not to overfill and press the edges firmly with a fork. If you find they’re still popping open, you can brush a little water or beaten egg along the edge before sealing for extra insurance.

Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of empanada dough?

Yes! Store-bought pie crust works in a pinch and bakes up flaky, though it’s a bit more delicate. Cut into rounds and handle gently while filling and sealing.

Are Cheesy Ground Beef Empanadas spicy?

They’re generally mild with a subtle hint of warmth from the chili powder, but you control the heat. Add more chili powder, a pinch of cayenne, or diced jalapeños if you want extra kick.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re cooking for nostalgia, celebration, or simply craving something savory and satisfying, Cheesy Ground Beef Empanadas are a surefire way to bring joy to your table. Don’t be surprised if they disappear faster than you expect—one bite and you’ll understand why this recipe is such a treasured favorite. Go ahead and give them a try; your taste buds will thank you!