Beef and Cheese Empanadas

The aroma of these Beef and Cheese Empanadas baking in the oven is reason enough to make them. With a flaky, buttery crust and a juicy, spiced filling, they’re a crowd-pleaser that always disappears fast. Each bite delivers tender ground beef seasoned with Latin spices and the creamy richness of melted cheddar cheese.

Empanadas are incredibly versatile—you can serve them as appetizers, main dishes, or even pack them in lunchboxes. Whether you’re planning a casual dinner or a festive gathering, these baked delights are sure to impress. Plus, making them from scratch is a fun and rewarding kitchen project that fills your home with warmth and mouthwatering scents.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 egg
3/4 cup cold water

For the Filling:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 pound ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup tomato sauce
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

To Assemble:

1 egg (for egg wash)

Directions:

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add cold butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and cold water. Gradually add to flour mixture, mixing just until dough comes together.
Turn dough onto a floured surface, knead gently, then wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
Add garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in ground beef and cook until browned.
Add tomato sauce and simmer for 3–4 minutes until mixture thickens. Remove from heat, cool slightly, then stir in cheese.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out dough to about 1/8-inch thickness and cut into 4-5 inch rounds.
Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each round, fold over, and seal edges with a fork.
Brush empanadas with beaten egg and bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 12 empanadas

Why Beef and Cheese is a Classic Combination

There’s a reason why beef and cheese make such a perfect pairing. Ground beef is hearty, satisfying, and full of flavor, especially when cooked with aromatic spices like cumin, paprika, and garlic. When combined with melted cheddar cheese, which adds a creamy, tangy richness, the result is a balanced, indulgent filling that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

The contrast in textures—crispy pastry on the outside, tender beef and melty cheese inside—makes these empanadas an irresistible comfort food. The fat from the beef and cheese helps to keep the filling moist and flavorful, which is especially important when baking the empanadas to ensure they don’t dry out.

A Dive Into Empanada Dough

The empanada dough in this recipe is made from a simple mix of flour, salt, butter, egg, and cold water. While some regions use cornmeal or lard, this particular dough creates a light and buttery crust that’s ideal for baking. The butter contributes to that signature flaky texture, while the egg adds richness and structure.

Unlike puff pastry, which is known for its multiple layers and airy rise, empanada dough should be tender yet sturdy enough to hold the filling without tearing. When properly chilled and rolled, the dough becomes easy to work with and seals beautifully with a fork crimp.

For home cooks intimidated by the idea of homemade pastry, this dough is a fantastic entry point. It’s forgiving, customizable, and produces consistently delicious results.

Baking vs. Frying Empanadas

While traditional empanadas are often fried to achieve a crispy, golden shell, baking them offers several advantages—especially for modern home kitchens. Baked empanadas are healthier, less messy, and easier to prepare in large batches.

This recipe bakes the empanadas at a moderate temperature to ensure even cooking and a golden crust without sacrificing flavor or texture. You can still achieve that satisfying crunch by brushing the tops with egg wash before baking, which enhances browning and gives the empanadas a glossy finish.

If you prefer a more indulgent version, you could certainly adapt the recipe for frying. However, baking is not only simpler—it also allows the richness of the filling to shine without being overwhelmed by oil.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Beef and Cheese Empanadas are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. They can be enjoyed hot out of the oven, at room temperature, or even cold from the fridge—making them perfect for everything from casual dinners to on-the-go snacks.

To elevate your meal, consider pairing empanadas with one or more of the following:

Chimichurri sauce: A zesty Argentine herb sauce that adds freshness and acidity.
Avocado salsa or guacamole: Creamy and cooling, these condiments balance the richness of the filling.
Simple side salad: A light, vinegar-dressed salad cuts through the heaviness and adds a crisp contrast.
Pickled red onions or jalapeños: For a tangy, spicy punch that adds depth and brightness.

As a beverage pairing, a light beer, dry cider, or glass of Malbec complements the savory flavors beautifully.

Making Empanadas Ahead of Time

One of the greatest advantages of this dish is its make-ahead potential. Both the dough and the filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. You can even assemble the empanadas completely and refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, just pop them in the oven.

For long-term storage, empanadas also freeze extremely well. After assembling (but before baking), place them on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

This make-ahead flexibility makes Beef and Cheese Empanadas a great choice for meal prepping, parties, and potlucks.

Customizing the Filling

Although this version focuses on beef and cheddar, the filling can be endlessly customized based on your personal taste or dietary preferences. Here are some popular variations:

Add vegetables: Diced potatoes, peas, carrots, or spinach can be mixed into the beef filling for added nutrition and texture.
Use different cheeses: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a crumbled queso fresco.
Make it spicy: Add chopped jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or a dash of cayenne for heat.
Try alternative proteins: Ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a vegetarian option.
Include olives or raisins: Traditional in many Latin American recipes, these ingredients add a sweet-salty complexity that’s both surprising and delicious.

By changing up the ingredients, you can enjoy a new twist on empanadas every time you make them.

Cultural Importance of Empanadas

Empanadas are a beloved food not just because of their taste but because of their cultural significance. They are deeply rooted in family traditions, often made during holidays, festivals, or weekend gatherings. Making empanadas can be a communal activity—rolling the dough, filling each round, crimping the edges together. It’s a process that brings people together.

In many Latin American countries, empanadas are sold by street vendors and in bakeries, forming an essential part of everyday cuisine. They represent comfort, heritage, and regional pride. Whether enjoyed with coffee for breakfast, as a midday snack, or during a festive feast, empanadas are more than food—they’re a cultural symbol.

Tips for Perfect Empanadas Every Time

Don’t overfill. It can be tempting to stuff the empanadas with as much filling as possible, but this can cause them to burst during baking.
Seal tightly. Use a fork to crimp the edges firmly. A good seal ensures no leaks during baking and keeps the filling juicy.
Chill the dough. This helps prevent shrinkage and makes the dough easier to work with.
Use an egg wash. This gives the empanadas their beautiful golden-brown color and glossy appearance.
Vent the tops. A small slit in the top of each empanada allows steam to escape and helps prevent soggy pastry.

Conclusion

Beef and Cheese Empanadas are the epitome of a satisfying, versatile, and culturally rich dish. They combine simplicity with depth of flavor and serve as a blank canvas for your creativity in the kitchen. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, freezing a batch for later, or showcasing them at your next gathering, these empanadas are guaranteed to impress.

More than just a meal, they offer a taste of tradition and a comforting bite of homemade goodness. Once you try them, you’ll understand why empanadas hold such a beloved place in hearts—and kitchens—all over the world.