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Cheesy beef empanadas served on a plate, golden brown and appealing.

Beef and Cheese Empanadas

Delightful empanadas filled with savory ground beef and melty cheese, perfect for family meals or gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 empanadas
Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Mexican
Calories: 275
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 1 pound ground beef Hearty base of the filling, providing juiciness and flavor.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped Adds depth of flavor.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Enhances aroma and taste.
  • 1 whole jalapeño, diced For a touch of heat.
  • 1.5 teaspoon ground cumin Essential for authentic savory taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama® seasoning Enhances spice without overpowering.
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper Adds warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon oregano Provides Mediterranean flavor.
  • 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes Brings flavorful zing.
  • 0.25 teaspoon chili powder Adds subtle warmth.
  • 8 ounces tomato sauce Binds the filling together.
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Creates a deliciously melty filling.
  • 1 cup Pepper Jack cheese, shredded Complements cheddar with extra kick.
For the Dough and Egg Wash
  • 11.6 ounces 5” empanada dough Forms the perfect envelope for the filling.
  • 1 large egg Used for the egg wash.
  • 1 tablespoon water To create the egg wash mixture.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, chopped onion, diced jalapeño, and seasonings. Cook until the meat is no longer pink.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute to infuse flavors.
  4. Drain excess grease, add tomato sauce, and cook for an additional 15 minutes.
  5. Whisk together the egg and water to prepare the egg wash.
Assembly
  1. Lightly wet the edges of empanada dough with water. Place cheese and meat mixture in the center of each dough round.
  2. Fold the dough in half and pinch edges closed. Crimp with a fork for decoration.
  3. Brush the tops of the empanadas with the egg wash.
Baking
  1. Place empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 15 minutes until golden brown.
  2. Remove from oven and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Consider adding fresh herbs to the filling for added freshness. Using store-bought dough is acceptable for convenience. Experiment with cheese combinations for variations. Empanadas freeze well for future meals.