Savor the flavors of Latin America with these homemade Beef and Cheese Empanadas. Filled with seasoned ground beef and melted cheese, these empanadas are perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to festive gatherings. Follow this easy recipe to create a delicious treat that everyone will love.
In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, stirring until dough forms. Wrap in plastic; chill for 1 hour.
Make the Filling:
In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until onion is soft. Let cool, then mix in cheese.
Assemble Empanadas:
Roll out dough on a floured surface to ⅛ inch thickness. Cut out rounds with a 4-inch cutter. Place filling in the center of each round, fold over, and seal edges with a fork.
Cook:
Preheat oven to 400°F. Place empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with egg wash. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden.
Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce.
Notes
Freezing Instructions: Unbaked empanadas can be frozen for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Variations: Feel free to add olives, hard-boiled eggs, or bell peppers to the filling for extra flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for the dough.
Keyword Beef Empanadas, Cheese Empanadas, Empanada Recipe, Latin American Cuisine