Golden, crispy, and packed with rich, savory filling-Beef and Cheese Empanadas bring bold flavors wrapped in a perfectly flaky crust. Every bite delivers seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and warm spices, creating a hand-held treat that's hard to resist.
Empanadas have been a favorite across Latin America for generations. They're easy to customize, simple to make, and perfect for both appetizers and full meals.
Whether baked or fried, the result is always satisfying.
The best part? You can make them ahead of time, freeze them, and cook them whenever a craving hits.
Serve them as a snack, a party dish, or a filling dinner alongside your favorite dipping sauces.
What You Need to Make Flavorful Empanadas
A good empanada starts with the right ingredients. The dough should be tender and crisp, while the filling should be rich and packed with flavor.
- Ground Beef - Choose lean ground beef for a filling that's flavorful but not greasy. Browned with onions, garlic, and spices, it creates the base of the filling.
- Cheese - A melty cheese like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or cheddar adds a creamy contrast to the beef. It binds the filling together while adding richness.
- Empanada Dough - Store-bought empanada discs work well, but homemade dough gives you better control over texture and taste.
- Seasonings & Spices - Cumin, paprika, and chili powder add warmth and depth. A little salt and pepper bring everything together.
Filling Beef and Cheese Empanadas
Making empanadas at home is easier than you might think. With a few key steps, you'll have a batch ready to enjoy in no time.
- Prepare the Filling - Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions, garlic, and seasonings, cooking until fragrant. Stir in the cheese just before assembling to keep it melted but not overly greasy.
- Roll and Fill the Dough - If using store-bought dough, roll it out slightly to thin it. Place a spoonful of the beef and cheese mixture in the center of each disc. Be careful not to overfill-too much filling makes them harder to seal.
- Seal the Empanadas - Fold the dough over and press the edges together. Use a fork to crimp and secure the seal, or pinch and twist for a traditional rope-like finish.
- Bake or Fry - For crispy baked empanadas, brush with egg wash and bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown. For extra crunch, fry them in hot oil until crispy and golden.
- Serve and Enjoy - Let them cool slightly before serving. Pair them with salsa, chimichurri, or a creamy dipping sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Ways to Customize Your Empanadas
Empanadas are versatile, making them easy to tweak based on what you have on hand. Here are a few variations to try:
- Spicy Beef Empanadas - Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Chicken and Cheese Empanadas - Swap the beef for shredded chicken cooked with onions and spices.
- Vegetarian Empanadas - Skip the meat and fill them with sautéed mushrooms, black beans, or spinach and cheese.
- Breakfast Empanadas - Add scrambled eggs and bacon to the filling for a morning-friendly version.
Why This Recipe Always Works
- Perfectly Balanced Filling - The beef is seasoned well without overpowering the cheese, creating a rich yet smooth flavor.
- Crispy, Flaky Crust - Whether baked or fried, the dough comes out golden and crisp every time.
- Great for Meal Prep - Make a large batch and freeze them. Just cook from frozen whenever you need a quick meal.
What to Serve with Beef and Cheese Empanadas
While delicious on their own, empanadas shine even more with the right sides and sauces.
- Chimichurri Sauce - A garlicky herb sauce that adds brightness and freshness.
- Salsa Roja - A mildly spicy tomato-based salsa pairs well with the warm, crispy empanadas.
- Mexican Rice - a filling side that turns empanadas into a full meal.
- Black Beans - Soft, seasoned beans add texture and go with the rich filling.
Beef and Cheese Empanadas
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Add onions, garlic, and seasonings. Stir until fragrant.
- Stir in cheese, then remove from heat.
- Place filling in the center of each dough disc. Fold over and seal the edges.
- Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes or fry until golden brown.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, brush empanadas with egg wash before baking.
- Leftovers can be frozen and reheated later.
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Let us know how it was!More From EpicureDelight
The Complete Weeknight Dinner Guide - your complete resource for this topic.
Browse all dinner recipes →Beef and Cheese Empanadas is an excellent weeknight option - most versions come together in 30-45 minutes with minimal prep and everyday pantry ingredients.
The foundation of Beef and Cheese Empanadas is a handful of core ingredients - typically a protein or main component, aromatics, and a seasoning base. The full ingredient list is straightforward and easy to shop for.
Yes - it freezes well. Cool completely before storing in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Carrie is a food writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience. She has worked for some of the biggest names in the food industry, including Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and Martha Stewart Living.
As the Editor in Chief of EpicureDelight, Carrie oversees all of the content on the site. She also manages the team of contributing writers and editors, who help to create delicious recipes, helpful tips, and informative articles that you’ll find on the site.
A native of the Chicago area, Carrie is passionate about all things food. She loves trying new restaurants and experimenting with new recipes in her kitchen. She’s also a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, so she knows a thing or two about food!
