Are you craving a savory dish with a spicy kick? Look no further than these Beef and Cheese Empanadas. Packed with seasoned ground beef, two types of cheese, and a blend of aromatic spices, these empanadas are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeno, seeds and stem removed, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama seasoning
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Pepper Jack cheese, shredded
- 11.6 ounces empanada dough (such as Goya)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
Directions:
- Meat Mixture:
- In a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium heat, add ground beef, onion, jalapenos, and all the seasonings. Cook until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Drain excess grease from the pan and return it to the heat.
- Pour in the tomato sauce, stir well, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, ensuring a rich and flavorful filling.
- Egg Wash:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the large egg and water until well combined. This egg wash will give your empanadas a golden finish when baked.
- Assembling the Empanadas:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Take each empanada dough disc and lightly wet the edges with water to help seal the empanadas.
- Place a small amount of sharp cheddar cheese in the center of each dough disc, followed by a generous spoonful of the beef mixture, and top it off with Pepper Jack cheese.
- Carefully fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, gently pressing down the edges to seal. To ensure a secure closure, use the tines of a fork to crimp the edges.
- Baking:
- Arrange the assembled empanadas on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
- Brush the tops of the empanadas with the egg wash, ensuring an even coating.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serving:
- Once baked to perfection, remove the empanadas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- These Beef and Cheese Empanadas are best enjoyed warm, either as a delightful appetizer or as a satisfying main course alongside your favorite dipping sauces or fresh salsa.
With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these irresistible Beef and Cheese Empanadas in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the flavors of these delicious empanadas today!
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: Elevate the flavor experience by serving these Beef and Cheese Empanadas with your favorite dipping sauces. Salsa, guacamole, or a creamy chipotle dip complement the spicy, cheesy filling perfectly.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: For a pop of color and freshness, sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley over the empanadas just before serving. The vibrant green adds visual appeal and a hint of herbal aroma.
- Pair with Side Dishes: Turn these empanadas into a complete meal by pairing them with side dishes like Spanish rice, refried beans, or a crisp green salad. The combination of textures and flavors will delight your taste buds.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat the empanadas in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
- Freeze for Future Enjoyment: These Beef and Cheese Empanadas are freezer-friendly! After assembling but before baking, arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and golden brown.
- Pack for On-the-Go: These empanadas make a convenient and satisfying on-the-go snack or lunch option. Pack them in lunchboxes or take them on picnics for a tasty treat anytime, anywhere.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can make the most of your Beef and Cheese Empanadas, ensuring they stay delicious and fresh from the first bite to the last. Enjoy the convenience of leftovers and the versatility of freezing for future enjoyment, making mealtime a breeze!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I make these empanadas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the empanadas ahead of time. Simply store the assembled but unbaked empanadas in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to enjoy, brush them with egg wash and bake according to the recipe instructions. - Can I customize the filling to suit my taste preferences?
Yes, feel free to customize the filling to suit your taste preferences. You can adjust the spices, add additional ingredients such as diced bell peppers or black beans, or swap out the types of cheese used. Get creative and make these empanadas your own! - Can I use store-bought empanada dough?
Absolutely! While homemade dough is delicious, you can use store-bought empanada dough for convenience. Look for empanada dough discs in the freezer section of your grocery store. Thaw them according to the package instructions before assembling the empanadas. - Are these empanadas suitable for freezing?
Yes, these Beef and Cheese Empanadas are perfect for freezing. After assembling but before baking, arrange the empanadas on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, bake them from frozen according to the recipe instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
These FAQs should address any questions you may have about making, customizing, and storing these delicious Beef and Cheese Empanadas. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and techniques to make these empanadas a standout dish in your repertoire!