Savory beef, melted cheese, and crispy pastry unite. Flaky empanada wrappers encase a rich, spicy beef filling. Onions, jalapeños, and garlic add depth. Colby jack cheese brings creaminess. Baked to golden perfection, flavorful, satisfying, and irresistible, these Cheesy Beef Empanadas are perfect for gatherings, parties, or cozy nights.
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 🫒
• 1 small white onion (diced)🧅
• 1 jalapeño deseeded and diced (optional)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)🧄
• 1 lb ground beef🥩
• 1 teaspoon salt🧂
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon ground dried oregano
• 12-15 6-inch round empanada wrapper🥟
• 8 oz Colby jack cheese (freshly grated)🧀
• 1 egg🥚
• 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Baking Sheets
• Preheat oven to 375°F.
• Line two baking sheets with parchment paper, silicone mat, or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Cook Onion and Jalapeño
• Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium heat.
• Add onion; cook until translucent.
• Add jalapeño; cook for 3 minutes.
Step 3: Cook Garlic and Beef
• Add garlic; cook until fragrant.
• Add beef, salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano.
• Cook, breaking up beef, until browned and cooked through.
Step 4: Drain and Cool
• Drain rendered fat.
• Set aside; cool for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Assemble Empanadas
• Spoon beef mixture onto empanada wrapper center.
• Add tablespoon of cheese.
• Fold, pinch edges, and twist into classic empanada border (or use fork to seal).
Step 6: Bake
• Place empanadas on baking sheets, leaving space.
• Brush with egg and water mixture.
• Bake for 25 – 27 minutes or until golden.
Step 7: Serve
• Remove from oven.
• Cool for 10 minutes.
• Serve.
Timings:
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time (beef mixture): 15-20 minutes
• Assembly Time: 10 – 12 minutes
• Bake Time: 25 – 27 minutes
• Total Time: 67 – 74 minutes
Enjoy your Cheesy Beef Empanadas!