Introduction
Welcome to my kitchen, where today we’re diving into the delightful world of Beef Cheese Empanadas! Picture this: a golden, flaky crust enveloping a savory filling of seasoned beef and gooey melted cheese. These empanadas are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for gatherings or simply indulging in a delicious homemade treat.
As I whisk you through this recipe, I’ll share some secret tips that will elevate your empanada game and have your friends and family begging for more. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
But first, why this recipe? Well, let me tell you, I’ve tried my fair share of empanadas, but there’s something about the combination of beef and cheese that hits all the right spots. The flavors meld together in a way that’s simply irresistible, making this a go-to dish in my household.
So, without further ado, let’s uncover the magic behind these Beef Cheese Empanadas!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I make these Beef Cheese Empanadas when I want to impress my guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The filling is rich and satisfying, and the flaky crust adds the perfect crunch to every bite. My family goes crazy for this dish because it’s a comforting meal that’s both hearty and delicious.
One of the best parts about this recipe is that you can customize it to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add some diced veggies to the filling for an extra burst of flavor. The possibilities are endless!
Trust me; once you try these Beef Cheese Empanadas, you’ll be hooked!
(Psst… I sometimes sneak in a sprinkle of smoked paprika into the filling for a smoky kick – it’s a game-changer!)
Ingredients
For the empanada dough:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold butter, diced
– 1/2 cup cold water
For the beef filling:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: A handful of shredded cheese for that extra gooey goodness!
(My grandmother always insisted on using a specific brand of cheese, but honestly, any melty cheese will work just fine.)
Directions
1. In a bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the diced butter and mix until crumbly. Slowly add the cold water and knead until the dough comes together.
2. Cover the dough and let it rest in the fridge while you prepare the filling.
3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the onions and garlic. Add the cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is fully browned.
4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Roll out the dough and cut it into circles. Spoon some of the beef filling onto each circle, add a sprinkle of cheese, then fold the dough over and crimp the edges.
6. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
(This is where I usually sneak a taste of the filling – it’s just too good to resist!)
Notes
Through trial and error, I’ve found that brushing the empanadas with an egg wash before baking gives them a beautiful golden color and a shiny finish. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in the final result.
Variations
As an experiment, I once tried adding a touch of hot sauce to the beef filling for a spicy kick. Let’s just say it was a bold move that didn’t quite work out as planned! Sometimes, simplicity is key.
Equipment
If you don’t have a pastry cutter to mix the dough, don’t fret! A fork works just as well for cutting the butter into the flour. Improvise with what you have – it’s all about making cooking fun and accessible.
Storage Information
Though honestly, in my house, these Beef Cheese Empanadas never last more than a day! But if you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be reheated in the oven for a quick and delicious snack.
Serving Suggestions
I personally love serving these empanadas with a side of fresh salsa or guacamole. The freshness of the condiments complements the richness of the filling perfectly. It’s a match made in culinary heaven!
Pro Tips
From my experience, I’ve learned that patience is key when making the dough. Rushing through the resting process can result in a tough crust that lacks that perfect flakiness. Take your time, and you’ll be rewarded with empanadas that are light as air!
FAQ
Q: Can I freeze these Beef Cheese Empanadas?
A: Absolutely! Once baked, let the empanadas cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, bake them in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
Q: Do I have to use ground beef, or can I substitute it with another protein?
A: While beef is traditional, feel free to get creative! Ground turkey or chicken can be delicious alternatives that offer a lighter twist on this classic recipe.
Irresistible Beef Cheese Empanadas Recipe with 5 Secret Tips
Golden, flaky empanadas filled with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and a hint of cumin, offering a comforting and delicious homemade treat.
Ingredients
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2 cups all-purpose flour
-
1 teaspoon salt
-
1/2 cup cold butter, diced
-
1/2 cup cold water
-
1 lb ground beef
-
1 small onion, diced
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 teaspoon cumin
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
A handful of shredded cheese
Directions
-
In a bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the diced butter and mix until crumbly. Slowly add the cold water and knead until the dough comes together.
-
Cover the dough and let it rest in the fridge while you prepare the filling.
-
In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the onions and garlic. Add the cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is fully browned.
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
Roll out the dough and cut it into circles. Spoon some of the beef filling onto each circle, add a sprinkle of cheese, then fold the dough over and crimp the edges.
-
Place the empanadas on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
