Cheesy Ground Beef Empanadas: 5 Reasons You’ll Love it

Empanadas are the ultimate comfort food crispy, golden pastry filled with savory, cheesy goodness. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick family dinner, or simply craving something indulgent, Cheesy Ground Beef Empanadas are the answer. This recipe combines the perfect flaky crust with a flavorful beef-and-cheese filling, making every bite a delightful experience. Let’s explore why these empanadas are a must-try and how you can make them at home with ease.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re wondering why these Cheesy Ground Beef Empanadas should be your next kitchen adventure, let us count the ways:

1. Quick and Easy to Make: Thanks to store-bought pie crusts, you can whip these up in no time.
2. Bursting with Flavor: The seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and a touch of spice create a filling that’s rich and satisfying.
3. Versatile: Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main course. Plus, you can customize the filling as you like.
4. Great for Meal Prep: Make them ahead of time, freeze, and bake whenever you want.
5. Crowd-Pleaser: Serve these at a party or family gathering, and watch them disappear in minutes.

These empanadas are the perfect fusion of convenience and deliciousness. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned cook, this recipe is foolproof and delivers restaurant-quality results every time.

Ingredients

Every great meal starts with the right ingredients, and these Cheesy Ground Beef Empanadas are no exception. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef (choose lean beef to avoid excessive grease)
• 1 medium onion, chopped (adds sweetness and texture)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (for aromatic depth)
• 1 ½ tsp ground cumin (a warm, earthy spice)
• 1 ½ tsp garlic salt (for seasoning)
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (like Slap Ya Mama® for a bold kick)
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp oregano (adds a hint of herbal freshness)
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ¼ tsp chili powder
• 8 oz can tomato sauce (for a tangy base)
• 1 Tbsp diced jalapeños (optional, for extra spice)
• ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated

For the Dough:

• 2 boxes Pillsbury™ Refrigerated Pie Crust (or homemade empanada dough)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 Tbsp water

Pro Tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can swap the pie crust for puff pastry or even tortilla wraps for a unique twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the process of creating these irresistible empanadas. Follow along with these simple steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) so it’s ready by the time your empanadas are assembled.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Filling

• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic until the beef is browned.
• Drain the grease to keep the filling from becoming too oily.
• Return the skillet to the stove and add the spices: cumin, garlic salt, Cajun seasoning, black pepper, oregano, red pepper flakes, and chili powder. Stir well.

Step 3: Simmer the Mixture

• Pour in the tomato sauce and add the jalapeños (if using).
• Let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
• Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 4: Prepare the Dough

• Lightly flour a clean work surface and unroll the Pillsbury™ pie crusts.
• Use a 4-inch round cutter (or an inverted bowl) to cut out circles. You should get about 4 rounds per crust.
• Gather the scraps, roll them out, and cut additional rounds until you have 8–10 circles.

Step 5: Assemble the Empanadas

• Place a dough round on your work surface and brush the edges lightly with water.
• Spoon ¼ cup of the beef filling into the center, then sprinkle with a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
• Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape.
• Seal the edges with your fingers, then press them down with a fork to crimp and secure.

Step 6: Add the Egg Wash

• In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg and 1 Tbsp water.
• Brush the tops of the empanadas with this egg wash to achieve a golden, crispy finish.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

• Arrange the empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
• Bake for 15 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown.
• Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Expert Tips

1. Keep the Dough Cool

Warm dough can become sticky and hard to handle. If it gets too soft, pop it in the fridge for 10 minutes.

2. Don’t Overfill

Stick to about ¼ cup of filling per empanada to avoid leaks during baking.

3. Try an Air Fryer

For a lighter option, cook the empanadas in an air fryer at 375°F for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Variations

These empanadas are incredibly versatile. Here are some creative ways to customize them:

• Spicy Version: Add extra diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the beef with black beans, corn, and bell peppers.
• Breakfast Empanadas: Use scrambled eggs, crumbled sausage, and cheese for a morning treat.
• Sweet Empanadas: For dessert, fill them with Nutella, dulce de leche, or fruit preserves and dust with powdered sugar.

Serving Suggestions

Empanadas pair beautifully with a variety of dipping sauces and sides. Here are some ideas:

• Salsa Roja: A tangy, slightly spicy tomato-based dip.
• Guacamole: Creamy avocado goodness to balance the savory filling.
• Sour Cream or Crema: A cool, tangy topping.
• Side Salad: Add a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• Rice and Beans: Serve alongside Mexican rice and refried beans for a hearty meal.
• Chimichurri Sauce: Add a fresh, herby kick to complement the cheesy beef filling.

Try them out, get creative with the variations, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations with friends and family. Happy cooking.

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10 Reasons You’ll Love These Cheesy Ground Beef Empanadas

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• Author: Lise
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 8–10 empanadas 1x

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Description

Empanadas are the ultimate comfort food: crispy, golden pastry filled with savory, cheesy goodness. Perfect for a quick family dinner, party, or indulgent snack. This foolproof recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with a flaky crust and flavorful beef-and-cheese filling.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef (choose lean beef to avoid excessive grease)
• 1 medium onion, chopped (adds sweetness and texture)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (for aromatic depth)
• 1 ½ tsp ground cumin (a warm, earthy spice)
• 1 ½ tsp garlic salt (for seasoning)
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (like Slap Ya Mama® for a bold kick)
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp oregano (adds a hint of herbal freshness)
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ¼ tsp chili powder
• 8 oz can tomato sauce (for a tangy base)
• 1 Tbsp diced jalapeños (optional, for extra spice)
• ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated

For the Dough:

• 2 boxes Pillsbury™ Refrigerated Pie Crust (or homemade empanada dough)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 Tbsp water

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook the Beef Filling:

1. • In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until beef is browned.
   • Drain excess grease.
   • Add cumin, garlic salt, Cajun seasoning, black pepper, oregano, red pepper flakes, and chili powder. Stir well.

3. Simmer the Mixture:

1. • Add tomato sauce and diced jalapeños (optional).
   • Simmer for 15 minutes until sauce thickens. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

4. Prepare the Dough:

1. • Lightly flour a work surface. Unroll pie crusts and use a 4-inch cutter to make dough rounds.
   • Gather scraps, re-roll, and cut to get 8–10 circles.

5. Assemble the Empanadas:

1. • Brush edges of dough with water.
   • Add ¼ cup filling and sprinkle with cheeses.
   • Fold into a half-moon shape and seal edges with a fork.

6. Add the Egg Wash:

1. • Whisk together egg and water.
   • Brush the tops of the empanadas with the mixture.

7. Bake to Perfection:

1. • Arrange empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
   • Bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

• Pro Tip: Keep dough cool during assembly. Chill for 10 minutes if it becomes sticky.
• Air Fryer Option: Bake in an air fryer at 375°F for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snack, Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Latin American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 empanada
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 11g
• Cholesterol: 40mg