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Easy Ground Beef and Cheese Empanadas Recipe

These Easy Ground Beef and Cheese Empanadas are a delicious, flavorful treat perfect for any occasion. With a savory ground beef filling, melted cheese, and a golden, crispy crust, these empanadas are a fantastic option for lunch, dinner, or even a snack. The combination of seasoned beef and gooey cheese wrapped in a flaky pastry is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Equipment

  • Skillet for cooking the beef filling
  • Rolling pin: For rolling out the dough.
  • Baking sheet for baking the empanadas
  • Pastry brush for applying egg wash
  • Spoon for filling the empanadas
  • Knife or pizza cutter for cutting dough circles

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese or cheese of choice
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 package empanada dough discs store-bought or homemade
  • 1 egg for egg wash
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking the beef
  • Salsa sour cream, or guacamole (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  • Cook the Ground Beef
  • Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  • Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Stir in the cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the beef is evenly seasoned. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
  • Prepare the Filling
  • Once the beef mixture has cooled slightly, stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until well combined. The cheese will melt into the beef mixture, creating a creamy, flavorful filling.
  • Assemble the Empanadas
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Take one empanada dough disc and place a spoonful of the beef and cheese filling in the center. Be careful not to overfill, as it will make folding the empanadas more difficult.
  • Fold the dough in half over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to crimp the edges and seal the empanada, ensuring the filling is securely enclosed. Repeat with the remaining dough discs and filling.
  • Brush with Egg Wash
  • In a small bowl, whisk the egg to create an egg wash. Using a pastry brush, gently brush the top of each empanada with the egg wash for a golden, glossy finish.
  • Bake the Empanadas
  • Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.
  • Serve
  • Remove the empanadas from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping.