Beef and Cheese Empanadas
Savory ground beef mixed with cheeses wrapped in a flaky crust for a delightful comfort food experience.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 lb ground beef Use fresh, high-quality beef for a juicy filling.
- 1 medium onion, chopped Provides a sweet and savory foundation.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced For that aromatic kick that enhances the flavors.
- 1.5 tsp ground cumin Adds warmth and earthiness.
- 1.5 tsp garlic salt Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tsp seasoned salt A must for seasoned perfection.
- 1 tsp pepper Adds a bit of a kick.
- 1 tsp oregano Offers Italian flair.
- 0.5 tsp crushed red peppers For a subtle heat that excites the palate.
- 0.25 tsp chili powder Deepens the flavor.
- 8 oz can tomato sauce Contributes a rich and tangy note.
- 1 Tbsp diced jalapeños A spicy surprise for those who love a kick.
- 0.5 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated For a rich, cheesy layer.
- 0.5 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated To add creaminess and flavor.
For the Crust
- 2 boxes refrigerated pie crust Simplifies the preparation process.
- 1 egg egg For the egg wash to give that golden shine.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking those crunchy delights.
- In a cast iron pan or large frying pan, add the ground beef, chopped onions, and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat until the ground beef is no longer pink, ensuring everything is evenly cooked and aromatic.
- Drain any excess grease and return the mixture to the pan. Sprinkle with seasonings and stir well to combine, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
- Add the tomato sauce and diced jalapeños to the meat mixture, stirring to incorporate. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the spices to develop deeper flavors.
Assembly
- Unroll the pie crust on a lightly floured surface. Using a 4-inch bowl turned upside down, press down to cut circles in the dough. Each pie crust should yield about four rounds.
- Add a little water to the edges of each dough circle before filling to help seal the empanadas properly.
- Place a small amount of shredded cheese and about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture on one half of each circle.
- Fold the dough over and use a fork to press down on the edges to seal the empanadas tightly. Arrange them on a baking sheet.
Baking
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg with one tablespoon of water. Use a basting brush to generously coat the top of each empanada for a beautiful golden finish.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until the empanada crust is golden brown. Carefully remove from the oven and enjoy!
Notes
To elevate flavor, add chopped bell peppers or corn to the mixture. For a healthier twist, substitute half of the ground beef with ground turkey. Experiment with different cheese blends for variety. Keep an eye on them while baking to achieve the perfect golden color.