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Beef and Cheese Empanadas: A Crispy, Savory Latin American Classic

Empanadas are savory, golden-brown hand pies packed with a delicious filling and wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust. Beef and Cheese Empanadas are a classic Latin American favorite, bringing together well-seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and aromatic spices inside a crispy shell. Whether baked for a healthier option or fried for extra crunch, these empanadas make for an irresistible snack, appetizer, or main dish.
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Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 empanadas
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Filling:
  • Ground beef
  • Onion finely chopped
  • Garlic minced
  • Ground cumin
  • Smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Green olives chopped (optional)
  • Raisins optional, for a sweet contrast
  • Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
For the Dough:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Salt
  • Cold unsalted butter cubed
  • Cold water
  • Egg for egg wash

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Prepare the Filling
  2. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
  3. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
  4. Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. Stir in chopped olives and raisins (if using).
  6. Remove from heat and mix in shredded cheese.
  7. Step 2: Make the Dough
  8. Combine flour and salt in a bowl.
  9. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  10. Gradually add cold water and mix until a smooth dough forms.
  11. Chill the dough for 30 minutes.
  12. Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas
  13. Roll out the dough and cut into 4-inch circles.
  14. Spoon the beef and cheese mixture onto each dough round.
  15. Fold into a half-moon shape and crimp edges with a fork.
  16. Step 4: Baking or Frying
Baking Method:
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Brush empanadas with beaten egg for a golden finish.
  3. Bake for 20-25 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
Frying Method:
  1. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Fry empanadas for 3-4 minutes per side, until crispy and golden.
  3. Drain on paper towels.
  4.  

Notes

  • For extra flaky dough, use ice-cold water.
  • Let the filling cool slightly before assembling to prevent soggy dough.
  • Serve with salsa, guacamole, or a sour cream dip for extra flavor.