Empanadas are a beloved dish across Latin America, Spain, and beyond, with each country putting its unique spin on these delicious pockets of dough. One of the most popular and mouth-watering variations is the beef and cheese empanada, where seasoned ground beef is paired with melty cheese and encased in a golden, flaky crust. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or main course, beef and cheese empanadas are perfect for any occasion.
In this comprehensive guide, we will dive into the history of empanadas, break down how to make the perfect beef and cheese empanada from scratch, and explore tips and variations to elevate your empanada game. Whether you’re a first-time cook or a seasoned pro, this recipe will have you making these crispy, cheesy delights in no time.
The Origins of Empanadas
Empanadas, which derive their name from the Spanish verb empanar (meaning “to coat with bread”), are thought to have originated in Spain and quickly spread to Latin America and other parts of the world. The basic concept behind empanadas is simple: a savory or sweet filling is wrapped in dough and then baked or fried.
While Spain is where the dish first appeared, the word “empanada” is now widely used in many countries, each of which has adapted the recipe to suit local tastes. In Latin America, empanadas became popular due to their convenience—portable, easy-to-make, and delicious. Over the years, fillings have ranged from meats and cheese to vegetables, seafood, and even fruit, depending on the region.
The beef and cheese empanada is a favorite in Argentina, Chile, and other parts of South America. It’s a comforting combination of seasoned ground beef and melty cheese that makes for the perfect balance of flavors.
Why Beef and Cheese Empanadas?
The pairing of beef and cheese is a classic combination that’s loved around the world. The savory beef provides a rich, hearty base, while the cheese adds a creamy, gooey texture that melts beautifully within the dough. When baked or fried, the dough becomes golden and crispy, creating a satisfying contrast to the soft, flavorful filling inside.
This simple yet delectable combination is versatile, making it ideal for a variety of occasions, from casual snacks to festive gatherings. Plus, making empanadas at home allows you to customize the filling and dough to suit your tastes.
Ingredients for Beef and Cheese Empanadas
Making the perfect beef and cheese empanada requires high-quality ingredients. While you can buy pre-made empanada dough, making it from scratch adds a personal touch and enhances the overall flavor. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:
For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup cold water (add more as needed)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean beef is ideal)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination works well)
- 1/4 cup green olives, chopped (optional, but adds a nice salty flavor)
- 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional for garnish)
For Assembly:
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
- Oil for frying (if frying)
How to Make Beef and Cheese Empanadas
Step 1: Make the Empanada Dough
The dough is crucial to getting that perfect flaky texture. Here’s how to make it from scratch:
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
- Incorporate the butter: Add the cold butter pieces to the flour mixture and use your hands or a pastry cutter to blend it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter pieces.
- Add the wet ingredients: Create a small well in the center of the dough mixture and add the egg, vinegar, and about ½ cup of cold water. Stir to combine, and gradually add more water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 3-4 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can make it tough.
- Rest the dough: Form the dough into a ball, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is important for achieving that delicate, flaky texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Filling
While the dough is resting, prepare the flavorful beef filling.
- Cook the beef: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
- Add the vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, and red bell pepper (if using). Sauté until the onions become translucent and softened, about 5 minutes.
- Season the beef: Stir in the cumin, paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the spices to meld with the beef.
- Add the finishing touches: Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheese, olives, and hard-boiled egg (if using). The cheese will melt into the warm beef, creating a gooey and delicious filling. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas
Now it’s time to bring everything together:
- Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to about 1/8-inch thick. Use a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles of dough. If you don’t have a cutter, you can use the edge of a glass.
- Fill the empanadas: Place about 1-2 tablespoons of the beef mixture in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make sealing the empanadas difficult.
- Seal the empanadas: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together with your fingers to seal, and then use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
- Egg wash (optional): If you’re baking the empanadas, lightly brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden, shiny finish.
Step 4: Cook the Empanadas
You can either bake or fry your empanadas—both methods yield delicious results.
- To bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the assembled empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with the egg wash and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- To fry: Heat a few inches of oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the empanadas into the hot oil and fry in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Tips for Perfect Beef and Cheese Empanadas
- Don’t overfill the empanadas: While it’s tempting to pack in extra filling, overstuffed empanadas can break open while baking or frying. Stick to 1-2 tablespoons of filling.
- Use cold butter for the dough: For a flaky texture, make sure your butter is cold when incorporating it into the dough.
- Customize the filling: Feel free to add other ingredients to the beef filling, such as diced potatoes, raisins, or even a touch of hot sauce for some spice.
- Serve with dipping sauces: Empanadas are delicious on their own, but they pair beautifully with a side of chimichurri sauce, salsa, or a cool cilantro-lime crema.
Variations on Beef and Cheese Empanadas
While beef and cheese is the classic filling, you can experiment with different flavors:
- Chicken and Cheese Empanadas: Swap the ground beef for shredded chicken for a lighter version of the empanada.
- Spicy Beef Empanadas: Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture to turn up the heat.
- Vegetarian Empanadas: Use a combination of sautéed vegetables, beans, and cheese for a delicious meatless option.
Conclusion
Beef and cheese empanadas are the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich, savory flavor of beef with the creamy goodness of melted cheese, all wrapped in a golden, flaky dough. Whether you’re baking or frying, these empanadas are sure to impress your friends and family, making them perfect for any occasion.
Making empanadas from scratch might take a little time, but the results are well worth the effort. The homemade dough, flavorful beef filling, and customizable options allow you to create a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to the irresistible taste of beef and cheese empan