Ground Beef and Cheese Empanadas: Irresistible Golden Crunch

Ground beef and cheese empanadas take me back to bustling family gatherings where the kitchen was the heart of the home. Each time I fold an empanada, I remember those moments filled with laughter and the comforting aroma of sizzling beef. The magic of these little hand pies is that they’re not just food—they’re a journey back to cherished memories.

Every time I make ground beef and cheese empanadas, I find joy in the simple process of mixing, folding, and frying. There’s something deeply satisfying about crafting each empanada by hand, knowing that each one will bring delight to whoever takes a bite. Cooking should be about joy and sharing, and these empanadas embody that perfectly.

The first bite of a freshly fried ground beef and cheese empanada is always a revelation. Crisp on the outside and bursting with savory goodness inside, they’re a testament to the simple pleasure of good food. The combination of tender beef, melty cheese, and a hint of spice makes them irresistible.

Creating these delicious ground beef and cheese empanadas isn’t just about following a recipe—it’s about embracing the experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is your invitation to create something truly special. Let’s dive into the steps and bring a little bit of magic to your kitchen.

Ground Beef and Cheese Empanadas

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• Author: Chloe
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 12-16 empanadas
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Latin American

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Description

Learn how to make delicious ground beef and cheese empanadas with our easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for a tasty snack or meal!

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Ingredients

• 5 lbs (680 g) Ground Beef
• 2 medium Yellow Onions, diced
• 2 Red Bell Peppers, diced
• 1 cup (240 ml) Beef Broth
• 5 tbsp (23 ml) Hot Sauce
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) Kosher Salt
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) Black Pepper
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) Garlic Powder
• Empanada Dough Ball for 12-16 Discs
• 2 cups (200 g) Jack Cheese, shredded
• 1 cup (240 ml) Green Onions, sliced
• 1 qt (946 ml) Vegetable Oil
• Chimichurri for serving

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Instructions

1. Set your grill to a high temperature (approximately 400°F) for direct grilling. Place a cast iron skillet on the grill to heat up about 2 minutes before you start cooking.
2. Put the diced onions and red bell peppers into the hot skillet. Sauté them for 5-7 minutes until the onions become clear.
3. After that, pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the vegetables and set them aside.
4. Now, place the ground beef into the skillet, adding kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and hot sauce. Cook until the beef is browned and the liquid has evaporated.
5. Once ready, return the cooked veggies to the skillet and combine them with the meat. Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the mixture into a bowl.
6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 1-2 hours until it is completely cool.
7. Take the chilled filling and mix in the green onions and shredded cheese. Stir well until evenly combined.
8. Lay out an empanada dough disc and place a spoonful of the filling on one half of the disc.
9. Gently fold the other half over, forming a half-moon shape. Press the edges to seal the empanada, using either a fork to crimp or by twisting the edges.
10. Repeat this process until all the empanadas are assembled.
11. Heat vegetable oil in a Dutch oven to 350°F.
12. When the oil is hot, carefully lower the empanadas into the oil to fry for about 1.5-2 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Fry in batches if needed.
13. Once cooked, remove the empanadas and let them rest for 1 minute.
14. Serve the empanadas with chimichurri on the side and enjoy!

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Notes

• For a healthier option, use lean ground beef or turkey instead of regular ground beef.
• Add extra vegetables like corn, peas, or carrots to boost the empanada filling’s nutritional value.
• Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for a unique flavor twist.

Creating Ground Beef and Cheese Empanadas

Fundamentals

Ground beef and cheese empanadas are a delightful dish that hinges on the perfect balance of flavors. The combination of ground beef, cheese, and spices creates a savory filling that is both satisfying and comforting. The key is to use fresh ingredients and follow the steps closely to ensure that each empanada delivers on taste and texture.

For the base, we rely on ground beef, a versatile and flavorful ingredient that forms the cornerstone of many beloved dishes. The addition of diced yellow onions and red bell peppers adds depth and sweetness, while the beef broth enriches the mixture with a savory note. The choice of jack cheese brings a creamy, melty quality that perfectly complements the seasoned meat.

Preparation/setup

Start by setting your grill to high heat, approximately 400°F. A cast iron skillet is ideal for this recipe as it retains heat well and ensures an even cook. Place the skillet on the grill, allowing it to heat for about two minutes before adding the diced onions and red bell peppers. Sauté them for 5-7 minutes until the onions become translucent.

Once the vegetables are ready, pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes. This step not only softens the veggies but also infuses them with rich flavors. After simmering, remove the vegetables from the skillet and set them aside. Now, it’s time to cook the ground beef with a sprinkle of kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and a dash of hot sauce for that extra kick.

Mastering Ground Beef Empanada Technique

Technique

Browning the ground beef is crucial in developing the flavor of your empanada filling. Cook the beef until it’s fully browned and the liquid has evaporated, ensuring a concentrated taste. Once browned, reintroduce the cooked veggies into the skillet, mixing them thoroughly with the meat. This combination should be removed from the heat and allowed to cool completely in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours.

After chilling, add sliced green onions and shredded jack cheese to the mixture. This step not only enhances the flavor profile but also ensures a uniform filling. Stir well until everything is evenly distributed, preparing the mixture for the empanada assembly.

Tips/tricks

One of the secrets to perfect empanadas is ensuring the filling is cool before assembly. This prevents the dough from becoming too soft and difficult to handle. Additionally, when sealing the empanadas, a fork can be used to crimp the edges for a secure closure, or you can twist the edges for a more traditional look.

For even cooking, fry the empanadas in batches, maintaining an oil temperature of 350°F. Overcrowding the pot can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy empanadas. A cheese beef quesadilla might inspire you to experiment with other fillings once you’ve mastered the basics.

Achieving Empanada Perfection

Perfecting results

Consistency is key when crafting empanadas. Ensure each dough disc holds a uniform amount of filling to achieve even cooking and a harmonious bite. A well-sealed empanada keeps the delicious filling intact during frying, preventing any messy leaks.

While frying, aim for a golden brown color on each side, which typically takes about 1.5 to 2 minutes. This ensures a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft, savory filling. If you enjoy experimenting with different flavors, consider trying a green chile stew with ground beef for a spicy twist.

Troubleshooting/variations

If you find your empanadas are too greasy, it could be due to incorrect oil temperature. Always ensure the oil reaches 350°F before frying. This temperature allows the empanadas to cook quickly, sealing the outside to prevent excessive oil absorption.

For a healthier alternative, consider baking the empanadas instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown. This method reduces oil use while still delivering a deliciously crisp empanada. You can also explore other ground beef delights like mini taco cupcakes with ground beef and cheese for more inspiration.

Serving and Storing Your Empanadas

Serving/presentation

Once your ground beef and cheese empanadas are perfectly fried, let them rest for a minute before serving. This brief pause allows the flavors to settle and the exterior to crisp up further. Arrange them on a platter and serve with chimichurri on the side for a vibrant, herbaceous complement that enhances the empanada’s flavors.

For a visually appealing presentation, garnish the platter with fresh herbs or sliced green onions. This not only adds a pop of color but also hints at the ingredients inside. If you’re looking for more serving ideas, consider pairing your empanadas with a hearty ground beef stovetop chili for a satisfying meal.

Pairings/storage

Empanadas are versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve them with a fresh salad or spicy salsa for a refreshing contrast. When storing leftovers, place the empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, maintaining their crispness.

For longer storage, freeze the assembled, uncooked empanadas on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, fry or bake them directly from frozen. If you’re interested in different ground beef dishes, you might enjoy exploring ground beef and gravy over mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

Conclusion

Ground beef and cheese empanadas are a delicious journey into the world of savory pastries. They combine the rich flavors of seasoned beef and melting cheese within a crispy, golden shell. This recipe not only offers a delightful eating experience but also invites you to create lasting memories in the kitchen.

The utility of this dish lies in its versatility and ease of preparation. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, these empanadas are sure to impress. With simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, this recipe becomes a staple in your culinary repertoire.

As you master these empanadas, you’ll discover new ways to customize and experiment, making each cooking session an opportunity to innovate. Ground beef and cheese empanadas are more than just a recipe—they’re an invitation to explore, create, and savor the simple joys of cooking.

FAQs – Ground Beef and Cheese Empanadas