Cheesy Beef Empanadas for a Quick Dinner

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Cheesy Beef Empanadas are the perfect solution for a quick, satisfying dinner that packs a punch of flavor. These golden-brown pockets of goodness are filled with seasoned ground beef and melted cheese, making them irresistible for both kids and adults alike. With a simple preparation and easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cheesy Beef Empanadas are more than just delicious; they’re a convenient option for busy weeknights. Here’s why they’re a must-try:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour!
• Flavor-Packed: A savory mix of beef, cheese, and spices.
• Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients for a personal touch.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch and enjoy them throughout the week.
• Kid-Friendly: Perfect for little hands and hungry appetites.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 package (10 oz) empanada dough (store-bought)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Cheesy Beef Empanadas

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Season with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Once the beef is cooked through, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
4. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. On a clean surface, lay out the empanada dough rounds. Place about 2 tablespoons of the beef and cheese mixture in the center of each round.
6. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, crimping with a fork for extra security.
7. Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg to give them a golden finish.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Tips for the Best Results

• Make sure not to overfill the empanadas; otherwise, they may burst during baking.
• For extra flavor, consider adding chopped jalapeños or bell peppers to the beef mixture.
• If using homemade empanada dough, allow it to rest for 30 minutes before rolling out for better elasticity.

Easy Variations

• Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Add black beans or corn to the filling for a heartier texture and flavor.
• Experiment with different cheese types, like pepper jack or Monterey Jack, for a spicy kick.

What to Serve With It

• A fresh garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette
• Guacamole and tortilla chips for a crunchy side
• Spicy salsa for dipping
• Mexican rice for a complete meal

Storage and Reheating

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Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also freeze uncooked empanadas for up to 3 months; just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

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