If you are looking for a flavor-packed treat that brings together bold spices, savory meat, and melty cheese, you have to try the Beef and Cheddar Empanadas with Spiced Ground Beef Filling Recipe. These golden, crispy turnovers are filled with a warm, aromatic ground beef mixture, studded with green olives and sweet raisins, and topped with sharp cheddar cheese that oozes with every bite. Perfectly spiced and baked to a beautiful crisp, this dish is just the kind of comfort food that’s equally satisfying as a snack, appetizer, or a main course for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this delicious dish on the table is easier than it sounds because the ingredients are straightforward yet essential. Each one works to build layers of flavor, texture, and color that make these empanadas truly unforgettable.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base that carries all the rich, savory goodness.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the mixture with aromatic warmth.
- 1/2 cup green olives, chopped: Brings a salty, tangy pop to balance the richness.
- 1/4 cup raisins: A touch of natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the spices.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Earthy and slightly smoky, it’s a classic spice for beef dishes.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild heat and vibrant color to the filling.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Introduces a gentle kick without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without making the dish salty.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground for subtle spicy notes.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and bringing all the ingredients together smoothly.
- 1 package empanada dough discs (about 12 discs): The crispy, flaky shells that hold everything inside.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly to add creamy, tangy richness.
- 1 egg, beaten: Brushed on top for a beautiful golden finish.
How to Make Beef and Cheddar Empanadas with Spiced Ground Beef Filling Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Adding the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté them until they’re soft, fragrant, and the onion turns translucent. This step creates a flavorful foundation for the beef filling, allowing the spices to bloom brilliantly.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook it until it’s fully browned and cooked through. This process not only locks in the meat’s rich flavor but also ensures every bite is tender and juicy.
Step 3: Spice It Up
With the beef cooked, stir in cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. These spices are what transform simple ground beef into the heart of the empanadas, creating warm, inviting layers of flavor that dance on your tongue.
Step 4: Add the Unique Touches
Mix in chopped green olives and raisins. These seemingly small additions add bursts of tanginess and sweet contrast, making the filling more complex and exciting than your typical beef empanada.
Step 5: Let the Filling Cool
Remove the skillet from heat and allow the beef mixture to cool slightly. This step is crucial for handling the filling easily when assembling your empanadas without tearing the dough or melting the cheese prematurely.
Step 6: Assemble the Empanadas
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay out your empanada dough discs spaced apart. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture onto each disc, then sprinkle 1-2 tablespoons of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Fold each disc in half over the filling to form a half-moon shape and seal the edges by pressing with a fork for a pretty crimped design.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Brush the tops with beaten egg for that irresistible golden sheen once baked. Place the empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown. The result is a perfect combination of flaky crust with a spicy, cheesy center.
How to Serve Beef and Cheddar Empanadas with Spiced Ground Beef Filling Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your empanada experience, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or a dollop of creamy sour cream. These additions contrast beautifully with the warm, spiced beef filling and add a fresh, cool element to each bite.
Side Dishes
These empanadas pair wonderfully with a vibrant salad featuring crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrusy vinaigrette. Alternatively, a side of black beans or a slightly spicy avocado salsa adds complementary textures and flavors that round out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party presentation, serve them on a wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces like chimichurri, chipotle mayo, or a tangy tomato salsa. You can even cut each empanada into bite-sized pieces for easy sharing, making them a hit at any casual gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The empanadas will keep their flavor well but may lose some crispiness, which can be easily restored with reheating.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble the empanadas without baking, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to two months, allowing you to enjoy them fresh anytime without the hassle of preparing from scratch.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers or frozen empanadas by baking them in a preheated 350°F oven until warmed through and crisp on the outside, about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess and preserve the flaky texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cheddar?
Absolutely! While cheddar adds a nice sharpness and melts beautifully, you can try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even queso fresco for a different texture and flavor profile.
Are these empanadas spicy?
They have a gentle warmth thanks to the chili powder and paprika, but they are not overly spicy. You can adjust the chili powder amount based on your heat preference.
Can I substitute the ground beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even a blend of pork and beef can be used. Just keep in mind that cooking times and fat content may vary slightly.
Is it possible to make the dough from scratch?
Certainly! Homemade empanada dough can be made with flour, butter, water, and a pinch of salt for a fresher taste, but using premade discs saves time and effort for busy days.
What dipping sauces go best with these empanadas?
Chimichurri, spicy mayo, salsa verde, or a simple garlic aioli all pair wonderfully and enhance the flavors without overpowering the filling.
Final Thoughts
Don’t hesitate to dive into this wonderful Beef and Cheddar Empanadas with Spiced Ground Beef Filling Recipe because it offers a perfect combination of spice, sweetness, and cheesy richness in every golden bite. Whether you’re making them for a casual weeknight dinner, a festive gathering, or just because, these empanadas are sure to become one of your favorites to share and savor. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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Beef and Cheddar Empanadas with Spiced Ground Beef Filling Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 0h 30m
- Total Time: 0h 50m
- Yield: 12 empanadas
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American
Description
These classic beef and cheese empanadas feature seasoned ground beef combined with green olives, raisins, and aromatic spices, all wrapped in flaky empanada dough discs and baked to golden perfection. A perfect appetizer or snack, they offer a delightful balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors topped with melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients
Beef Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup green olives, chopped
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Assembly
- 1 package empanada dough discs (about 12 discs)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatics and beef.
- Cook onion: Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, ensuring it doesn’t burn by stirring constantly.
- Brown beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season beef: Stir in cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper; mix well to evenly coat the beef with the spices.
- Add olives and raisins: Incorporate the chopped green olives and raisins into the beef mixture and stir until combined.
- Cool filling: Remove the skillet from the heat and let the filling cool slightly to make handling easier.
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for baking the empanadas.
- Prepare dough: Lay the empanada dough discs on a clean surface, spaced apart to avoid sticking.
- Fill empanadas: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture onto the center of each empanada disc.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle 1-2 tablespoons of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef filling on each disc.
- Fold dough: Fold each empanada disc in half over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
- Seal edges: Press the edges to seal, then crimp with a fork for a decorative edge and to ensure no filling leaks during baking.
- Egg wash: Brush the tops of each empanada with the beaten egg to achieve a golden, glossy finish.
- Arrange empanadas: Place the prepared empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a non-stick baking mat.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until empanadas are golden brown and crispy.
- Cool and serve: Remove from oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving to enjoy the flavors and avoid burns.
Notes
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
- Ensure the filling is not too hot before assembling to prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
- Empanadas can be frozen before baking; bake from frozen adding extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
- Adjust spices according to your heat preference.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free empanada dough discs.
