Cheesy Beef Empanadas are a mouthwatering combination of perfectly spiced ground beef and gooey mozzarella cheese, all wrapped up in a golden, crispy pastry shell. The balance of savory, tangy, and sweet flavors from the olives and raisins brings a unique twist to this classic dish.
These empanadas are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main course for any occasion. Their crispy, flaky texture and cheesy filling make them irresistible, and the versatility of ingredients allows you to customize them with your favorite spices and fillings. Whether served with a side of salsa, sour cream, or a fresh salad, these Cheesy Beef Empanadas are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef
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1 small onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 cup green olives, chopped
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1/2 cup raisins
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1 tsp ground cumin
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1 tsp paprika
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1/2 tsp chili powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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12 empanada dough discs (store-bought or homemade)
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1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Directions:
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In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
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Add the green olives, raisins, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Lay out the empanada dough discs on a clean surface. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each disc, followed by a small handful of shredded mozzarella cheese.
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Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges with a fork to seal the empanada.
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Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg to give them a golden finish when baked.
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Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 12 empanadas
The History of Empanadas: A Global Favorite
Empanadas have a long and rich history that dates back to ancient times. While the exact origins of empanadas are debated, they are believed to have originated in the Iberian Peninsula (Spain and Portugal) during the 16th century. The word “empanada” comes from the Spanish verb “empanar,” which means “to wrap in bread.” The dish spread throughout Latin America and the Caribbean, with each country putting its own twist on the filling and dough.
In Spain, empanadas were traditionally filled with seafood, vegetables, or meats like pork or chicken. As the dish made its way to Latin America, variations emerged, incorporating local ingredients and flavors. In Argentina, for example, empanadas are often filled with beef, potatoes, and hard-boiled eggs. In Mexico, empanadas may include beans, cheese, or even sweet fillings like pumpkin or apple.
Today, empanadas are enjoyed worldwide and are considered a beloved comfort food. The Cheesy Beef Empanadas recipe combines traditional beef empanadas with the added richness of cheese, making them even more irresistible.
What Makes Cheesy Beef Empanadas So Special?
What sets Cheesy Beef Empanadas apart from other savory pastries is the perfect combination of flavors and textures. The ground beef filling is seasoned with a mix of spices, such as cumin, paprika, and chili powder, which gives the empanadas a deep, savory flavor. The addition of green olives and raisins adds an unexpected twist, bringing a balance of saltiness and sweetness that makes each bite exciting.
The cheese, typically mozzarella, provides a gooey, melty texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispness of the pastry. The dough is flaky and golden, making it the ideal vessel for holding the flavorful filling. The result is a perfectly balanced dish that satisfies both savory and sweet cravings in one delicious bite.
One of the best things about these Cheesy Beef Empanadas is their versatility. You can easily modify the recipe to suit your personal taste. For example, you can use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, for a different flavor profile. You can also add extra vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to the filling for added texture and nutrition.
How to Serve Cheesy Beef Empanadas
Cheesy Beef Empanadas are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. They are perfect as a snack or appetizer, but they also make a great main dish when paired with a side salad or a dipping sauce.
For a simple, yet flavorful side, consider serving the empanadas with a fresh salsa or guacamole. The bright, tangy flavors of the salsa complement the rich, savory empanadas, creating a balanced meal. You can also serve them with a cooling sour cream dip, which adds a creamy element to each bite.
If you’re looking to make the meal more substantial, pair the empanadas with a green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad provides a nice contrast to the richness of the empanadas. You can also serve them with a side of rice or beans for a complete meal.
Cheesy Beef Empanadas are perfect for casual family dinners, parties, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with a delicious and easy-to-make dish. They also make great leftovers, as they can be reheated in the oven or microwave without losing their crispy texture.
The Versatility of Empanadas: Customizing the Filling
While the classic Cheesy Beef Empanadas recipe is sure to satisfy, one of the best things about empanadas is their versatility. You can experiment with different fillings to create variations that cater to your preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are a few ideas for customizing your empanadas:
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Vegetarian Empanadas: Swap the ground beef for a variety of vegetables such as sweet potatoes, spinach, or mushrooms. Add cheese for a creamy texture, and season with your favorite herbs and spices.
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Chicken Empanadas: Replace the beef with cooked, shredded chicken. Add in some green chilies, corn, and cheese for a southwestern twist.
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Cheese Empanadas: For a simple yet indulgent treat, fill the empanadas with just cheese. You can use mozzarella, cheddar, or any cheese you love, and even add herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor.
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Sweet Empanadas: If you’re in the mood for something sweet, you can make dessert empanadas by filling the dough with fruit, such as apples, pears, or berries, along with a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar. These make for a delightful snack or dessert after a meal.
Empanadas are incredibly adaptable, making them the perfect dish for experimentation and personalization. Whether you’re craving something savory or sweet, there’s an empanada filling that will suit your taste.
Making Empanadas: Tips for Success
Making empanadas from scratch can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tips and techniques, you can achieve perfect empanadas every time. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Cheesy Beef Empanadas turn out delicious:
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Use Fresh Dough: If you’re using store-bought empanada dough, make sure it’s fresh and of good quality. If you prefer to make your own dough, ensure that it’s properly chilled before working with it to make rolling and folding easier.
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Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the empanadas with the beef mixture. While it’s tempting to stuff them to the brim, overstuffing can cause the dough to tear and the filling to spill out during baking.
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Seal the Edges Well: To prevent the filling from leaking out, make sure to press the edges of the dough firmly with a fork after folding them. This will create a tight seal and keep the filling inside.
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Bake Until Golden: The empanadas should be baked until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them during the final few minutes of baking to ensure they don’t overcook.
Conclusion: Why You Should Make Cheesy Beef Empanadas
Cheesy Beef Empanadas are a delicious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. They offer a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors, a crispy exterior, and a melty cheese filling. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, these empanadas are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
The beauty of empanadas lies in their versatility, allowing you to customize the filling to suit your tastes. From vegetarian options to sweet versions, the possibilities are endless. The recipe itself is simple, but the result is impressive, making it a great choice for any occasion.
If you’re looking for a delicious, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that will wow your friends and family, look no further than Cheesy Beef Empanadas. They’re perfect for any meal and are sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
Making empanadas can be a fun and rewarding experience, and with this recipe, you can create a dish that’s just as delicious as the ones from your favorite Latin American restaurants. Give it a try and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness in every bite!