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Beef and Cheese Empanadas: A Perfect Bite-Sized Delight


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  • Author: Lena Meeli
  • Total Time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 empanadas 1x

Description

These Beef and Cheese Empanadas are a perfect combination of flaky dough and savory filling. A fun and easy-to-make recipe that’s great for any occasion!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1/2 lb (225 g) ground beef

  • 1/2 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional for spice)

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)

  • 1/4 cup (30 g) chopped green olives (optional, for a salty bite)

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

For the dough:

  • 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 cup (115 g) cold unsalted butter, cubed

  • 1 large egg, beaten

  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) cold water

  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

  • 1 tablespoon water


Instructions

  • In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add cold butter and work it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.

  • Stir in the beaten egg and cold water. Mix until a dough forms. If too dry, add more water, one teaspoon at a time.

  • Knead lightly on a floured surface, form into a ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

  • Heat olive oil in a skillet, add onion and garlic, and cook for 2–3 minutes. Add ground beef, breaking it up, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

  • Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

  • Stir in cheese, olives (optional), and parsley.

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  • Roll out chilled dough to 1/8 inch thick. Cut circles using a 4–5-inch cutter.

  • Place 2 tablespoons of beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold over and seal the edges with a fork.

  • Brush with an egg wash (beaten egg and water). Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.

  • Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!

Notes

  • For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or almonds on top of the filling before sealing.

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

  • For a different flavor, substitute cheddar with blue cheese or experiment with other cheese varieties.

  • Prep Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes