Looking for a quick weeknight dinner idea? Try this easy baked beef and cheese empanadas recipe made with homemade dough and savory fillings for a family favorite meal, save for later

Easy Baked Beef and Cheese Empanadas Recipe

Introduction

Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, flaky pastry pocket filled with the rich flavors of beef and melted cheese, all without the hassle of deep-frying. This easy baked beef and cheese empanadas recipe brings together the simplicity of everyday ingredients with the creativity of international cuisine, perfect for a quick dinner or as an impressive appetizer for your next gathering. With its balance of savory beef, gooey cheese, and the crunch of a perfectly baked crust, this dish is sure to become a favorite. The recipe is designed to be accessible, using common ingredients and straightforward steps, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced cooks looking to add a new dimension to their meals.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe combines the hearty taste of beef with the comfort of cheese, all wrapped in a crispy pastry. The ingredients are easy to find in most supermarkets, making it a practical choice for any day.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive appearance, this dish is surprisingly easy to prepare. The filling can be made in advance, and the empanadas can be assembled and baked in under an hour.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The beauty of baking empanadas lies in their presentation. They look like they require a lot of work, but in reality, the process is straightforward, making them perfect for entertaining or special occasions.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this recipe include ground beef, onion, garlic, cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella), empanada pastry disks (which can be found in the freezer section of many grocery stores or made from scratch), and spices like cumin and paprika. For practical substitutions, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, and experiment with different types of cheese for varying flavors. If empanada pastry disks are not available, you can also use pie crust or make your own pastry dough from flour, water, and oil.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare the filling by browning the ground beef in a pan over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
2. Step 2: Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture and stir well. Then, add shredded cheese and mix until the cheese is well combined with the beef. Set the filling aside to cool slightly.
3. Step 3: On a lightly floured surface, lay out the empanada pastry disks. Place a tablespoon or two of the beef and cheese filling in the center of each disk. Brush the edges with a little water, fold the pastry in half to form a half-moon shape, and press the edges together to seal the empanada. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
4. Step 4: Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about an inch of space between each empanada. Brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden glaze. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to not overfill the empanadas, as this can cause them to burst open during baking. Also, chilling the filled empanadas in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking can help them hold their shape better.
• For an extra crispy crust, you can brush the empanadas with a little bit of oil before baking.
• Experiment with different fillings, such as chicken, beans, or vegetables, to create variations that suit your taste preferences.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking empanadas is 400°F (200°C), and they should be baked for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown. It’s essential to keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking, as the pastry can quickly go from perfectly golden to overly browned.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in these empanadas comes from the baked pastry. To achieve the perfect crunch, make sure the oven is at the right temperature, and don’t overbake. A light egg wash before baking also helps in achieving a golden, crispy crust.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For a more golden crust, try adding a little bit of sugar to the egg wash before brushing it on the empanadas. The sugar will caramelize during baking, giving the pastry a beautiful golden brown color.
• Use leftover filling to make stuffed bell peppers or as a topping for baked potatoes for a creative meal extension.
• Consider making a large batch of the beef and cheese filling and freezing it for future empanada gatherings. This can save time and make the process even more efficient.

Storage Tips

• Baked empanadas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply bake them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Unbaked empanadas can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they don’t touch each other, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake frozen empanadas for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until golden brown.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting these empanadas, a beautiful and practical way to package them is in a basket lined with a colorful towel or parchment paper. You can also wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a decorative tin or box. Adding a card with reheating instructions and a personal message can make the gift even more special.

Flavor Variations

• 🌟 Different spices: Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or some dried oregano for a more Mediterranean flavor.
• 🌟 Creative toppings: Before baking, sprinkle some grated cheese, chopped fresh cilantro, or diced tomatoes on top of the empanadas for added flavor and texture.
• 🌟 Ingredient swaps: Use ground pork or a combination of meats for a different flavor profile, or swap the cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the pastry is too dry, it might be overworked. Try adding a little more water to the dough. If the filling is too wet, add some breadcrumbs to absorb the moisture.
• Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find empanada pastry, consider using spring roll wrappers or making your own pastry from scratch.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the empanadas during the last minutes of baking. They should be golden brown. If they’re pale, they might not be cooked enough, and if they’re too dark, they’re overcooked.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, both baked and unbaked empanadas can be frozen. See the storage tips section for more details.
• Is it gluten-free? Depending on the pastry used, empanadas can be gluten-free. Make sure to choose a gluten-free empanada pastry or make your own gluten-free dough.
• Can I double the recipe? Absolutely. Simply double all the ingredients and follow the same instructions. You might need to bake the empanadas in batches depending on the size of your baking sheet.

Conclusion

This easy baked beef and cheese empanadas recipe is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal or gathering. With its simple ingredients, straightforward preparation, and impressive results, it’s perfect for cooks of all levels. Feel free to experiment with different fillings and toppings to make the recipe your own, and don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or to share your own empanada creations. Happy baking, and enjoy the delightful flavors of these crispy, cheesy pastry pockets!