Description
Crispy, cheesy, and perfect Beef & Cheese Empanadas that are great as a snack, appetizer, or party treat. Easy to make and full of flavor!
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped green olives (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1/3 cup cold water (adjust as needed)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Make the Dough: Combine flour and salt in a bowl. Cut in butter until coarse crumbs form. Add cold water gradually to form a soft dough. Wrap and refrigerate 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: Cook ground beef until browned. Add onion, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook 3–4 minutes until onions soften. Stir in olives if using. Remove from heat and cool slightly. Mix in cheese.
- Assemble the Empanadas: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll dough to 1/8 inch thick. Cut into 4–5 inch circles. Place 2 tbsp filling in center. Fold into half-moons and seal edges with a fork.
- Bake: Place on parchment-lined sheet. Brush with egg wash. Bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve & Enjoy: Cool slightly before serving. Perfect as snack, appetizer, or party treat.
Notes
- Sprinkle extra smoked paprika on top for more flavor.
- Olives are optional and can be omitted or replaced with other ingredients.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snack, Appetizer
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: Latin American