Introduction
Beef & Cheese Empanadas are a savory, handheld delight, perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even a main course. These golden-brown pastries are filled with seasoned ground beef and melty cheddar cheese, offering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures in every bite. Empanadas are versatile and can be customized with various fillings, making them a favorite across different cultures. This recipe provides a simple yet delicious way to enjoy homemade empanadas with a flavorful beef and cheese filling.
Overview of the Recipe
This recipe for Beef & Cheese Empanadas combines seasoned ground beef with cheddar cheese, encased in a flaky, golden pie crust. The preparation involves cooking the beef with aromatic spices, assembling the empanadas with the prepared filling, and baking them until crispy. These empanadas are easy to make and can be enjoyed fresh from the oven or reheated for later use.
History and Origin
Empanadas have a rich history that spans across various cultures, particularly in Spain and Latin America. The word “empanada” comes from the Spanish verb “empanar,” which means “to bread” or “to wrap in bread.” Traditionally, empanadas were made by folding dough around a variety of fillings, including meats, vegetables, and cheeses, then baked or fried to golden perfection. Over time, empanadas have evolved, with different regions adding their own unique twist to the fillings and preparation methods. This Beef & Cheese Empanada recipe reflects a popular variation often enjoyed in North America and Latin America.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to let it brown too much.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the ground cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to meld with the beef and enhance the overall flavor.
- Once the beef is well-seasoned and cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly. This cooling step is important as it will prevent the cheese from melting too quickly when added.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed throughout the beef mixture.
- Assemble the Empanadas
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the empanadas from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
- On a lightly floured surface, unroll the refrigerated pie crusts. Use a round cutter or a glass with a diameter of about 4 inches to cut out circles from the dough. You should be able to get around 12 circles from the pie crusts.
- Place a spoonful of the beef and cheese mixture in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill the empanadas, as this could cause the dough to tear or the filling to leak out during baking.
- Fold each dough circle over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together with a fork to seal the empanada securely. You can also crimp the edges to give the empanadas a decorative finish.
- Bake the Empanadas
- Arrange the assembled empanadas on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one to ensure even baking.
- Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg. This egg wash will give the empanadas a shiny, golden-brown finish.
- Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. The exact baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning.
- Serve
- Once the empanadas are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet. This will help the filling set, making them easier to eat.
- Serve the empanadas warm, either on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce, such as salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
Serving Suggestions
Beef & Cheese Empanadas are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. They are perfect as a standalone snack or appetizer but can also be served as part of a larger meal. Consider pairing them with a fresh salad, rice, or beans for a complete meal. These empanadas are also great for parties or gatherings, as they can be made ahead of time and reheated as needed.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
- Appetizer: Serve the empanadas with a side of salsa, guacamole, or a spicy dipping sauce.
- Main Course: Pair them with a simple salad, black beans, or rice for a satisfying meal.
- Lunchbox Idea: Pack them in a lunchbox with a side of fruit and a small salad for a delicious and portable lunch.
Variations of the Recipe
- Spicy Beef & Cheese Empanadas: Add a chopped jalapeño or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the beef mixture for an extra kick of heat.
- Vegetable Beef Empanadas: Incorporate some diced bell peppers or corn into the beef filling for added texture and flavor.
- Different Cheeses: Substitute the cheddar with other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Baked vs. Fried: For a different texture, you can fry the empanadas in hot oil instead of baking them. Fry them until golden brown, then drain on paper towels.
Health Benefits
While Beef & Cheese Empanadas are a delicious indulgence, they can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Ground beef provides protein, iron, and B vitamins, essential for maintaining energy levels and overall health. The spices used in the filling, such as cumin and paprika, not only add flavor but also have potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, given the pastry and cheese content, these empanadas are higher in calories and fat, so they are best enjoyed as an occasional treat.
FAQs
- Can I make the empanadas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the empanadas in advance. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze them for longer storage. If frozen, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. - Can I use homemade dough instead of store-bought pie crusts?
Absolutely! Homemade dough can give your empanadas a more authentic taste and texture. You can use a simple empanada dough recipe made with flour, butter, water, and salt. - How should I store leftover empanadas?
Leftover empanadas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or toaster oven to restore their crispiness. - What can I use as a substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat can be used as a substitute for ground beef in this recipe. The cooking instructions remain the same. - Why did my empanadas open up during baking?
Empanadas can open up during baking if they are overfilled or if the edges are not sealed properly. Be sure to press the edges together firmly and consider brushing a little water or egg wash on the edges before sealing to help them stick.
Conclusion
Beef & Cheese Empanadas are a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef and melted cheese inside a crispy, golden pastry. This recipe is straightforward and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main course, these empanadas are sure to be a hit with family and friends. By following the detailed instructions and tips provided, you can create a batch of homemade empanadas that are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the process of making these delightful pastries and savor the delicious results!