Beef & Cheese Empanadas

Here’s a simple and tasty recipe for Beef & Cheese Empanadas. These savory pastries are perfect for a snack, appetizer, or main course.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 stick (8 tbsp) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes
• 1 large egg
• ⅓ cup cold water
• 1 tbsp white vinegar

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp chili powder (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup tomato sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite blend)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions

Making the Dough:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the chilled butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, water, and vinegar. Gradually add this mixture to the flour mixture, stirring until the dough starts to come together.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead a few times until it becomes smooth. Form it into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Preparing the Filling:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onion is soft and translucent.
3. Stir in the cumin, paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Add the tomato sauce and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
4. Once the beef mixture has cooled, stir in the shredded cheese and chopped cilantro (if using).

Assembling the Empanadas:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ⅛-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.
3. Place about 1-2 tablespoons of the beef and cheese filling in the center of each dough circle.
4. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together with your fingers, then crimp with a fork to seal.
5. Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a golden color.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown.
7. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the empanadas with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
• Pair them with a simple salad or rice for a complete meal.

Enjoy your homemade Beef & Cheese Empanadas!