Introduction
Baked Beef and Cheese Empanadas are golden, flaky pastries filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and aromatic spices. These handheld delights are perfect as appetizers, snacks, lunches, or party treats. Their crisp, buttery crust and flavorful filling make them a favorite across many cultures.
Origin
Empanadas originated in Spain and were later introduced to Latin America, where they evolved into countless regional varieties. Today, countries such as Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and the Philippines each have their own distinctive versions, featuring different fillings and cooking methods.
Cultural Significance
Empanadas are often associated with celebrations, family gatherings, and festive occasions. They represent comfort food, culinary tradition, and the creativity of home cooks who customize fillings using local ingredients and family recipes passed down through generations.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 egg
- ⅓ cup cold water
For the Filling
- 1 pound (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Finishing
- 1 egg beaten (egg wash)
Ingredient Quantity
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Flour | 2½ cups |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Butter | ½ cup |
| Egg | 2 (1 for dough, 1 for egg wash) |
| Cold water | ⅓ cup |
| Ground beef | 1 lb (450 g) |
| Onion | 1 small |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Cumin | ½ tsp |
| Oregano | ½ tsp |
| Cheese | 1 cup |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
Optional Additions
- Diced bell peppers
- Chopped olives
- Jalapeños for spice
- Cooked bacon
- Corn kernels
- Fresh cilantro or parsley
- Cream cheese for extra richness
- Hard-boiled chopped eggs
Tips for Success
- Keep the butter and water cold for a flaky pastry.
- Allow the filling to cool before assembling the empanadas.
- Seal the edges tightly with a fork or decorative crimping.
- Brush generously with egg wash for a shiny golden finish.
- Avoid overfilling to prevent leaks during baking.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the dough by mixing flour and salt, then cut in the butter until crumbly.
- Add the egg and cold water, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the onion until softened.
- Add the garlic and ground beef; cook until browned.
- Stir in paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the filling cool.
- Roll out the dough and cut into 5-inch circles.
- Place a spoonful of beef filling and shredded cheese in the center of each circle.
- Fold over, seal the edges, and crimp with a fork.
- Brush with egg wash.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Description
These baked empanadas feature a crisp, buttery crust surrounding a juicy, flavorful beef filling enriched with melted cheese. The combination of tender pastry and savory filling creates a satisfying bite that’s perfect for any occasion.
Nutritional Information
Approximate per empanada (based on 10 servings):
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fat: 17 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 360 mg
Conclusion
Baked Beef and Cheese Empanadas are a delicious combination of flaky pastry and hearty filling. Easy to prepare and convenient to serve, they’re ideal for family meals, lunch boxes, parties, or meal prep.
Recommendation
Pair these empanadas with fresh salsa, chimichurri, sour cream, guacamole, or a crisp green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. They also freeze well and can be reheated whenever needed.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Enjoy these empanadas as part of a balanced diet by serving them alongside fresh vegetables or a salad. For a lighter version, use lean ground beef, reduce the cheese slightly, and substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour while still enjoying their delicious homemade flavor.