If you are craving a comforting, flavorful treat that brings a little fiesta to your kitchen, look no further than this Beef Empanada Recipe. These golden pockets of joy are stuffed with a savory blend of seasoned ground beef, vibrant green chiles, and melty sharp cheddar cheese all wrapped in a flaky pie crust, baked to perfection. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer for guests, this recipe delivers big on taste with simple, accessible ingredients that come together fast and effortlessly. Get ready to fall in love with every bite of these delicious beef empanadas!

Ingredients You'll Need

The first image shows a white marbled surface with a silicone baking mat on top, where several round dough pieces have been cut, one round cutter with a blue rim is resting on the dough. The second image shows a black pan on the same white marbled surface, filled halfway with cooked crumbly ground beef being stirred by a wooden spoon. The third image has the same black pan with the ground beef now mixed with small pieces of red and green bell peppers, stirred with the wooden spoon. The fourth image shows the black pan again with the ground beef mixture now including shredded bright orange cheddar cheese, stirred with the wooden spoon. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Beef Empanada Recipe relies on a handful of straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in building incredible layers of flavor and texture. From the warm spices seasoning the beef to the creamy melted cheese and the buttery crust, every component shines and complements one another perfectly.

Ground beef (½ pound): The hearty base that provides rich, meaty flavor and satisfying texture.
Onion (¼ diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth to the filling.
Ground cumin (½ teaspoon): Brings an earthy warmth that enhances the savory meat.
Chili powder or chipotle chili powder (½ teaspoon): Infuses a gentle heat with a smoky kick.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for balancing and elevating all the flavors.
Diced green chiles (4 ounces): Introduce a fresh, slightly spicy note and a bit of color.
Diced pimento peppers (4 ounces): Sweet and tender, adding vibrant red contrast and flavor complexity.
Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Thickens the filling and brings a tangy, savory depth.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (½ cup): Melts into gooey pockets of flavor, complementing the beef perfectly.
Refrigerated pie crusts (2): Easy and flaky dough to encase the filling in crisp, buttery goodness.
Egg (1, whisked): Used as an egg wash to give the empanadas a beautifully golden, shiny finish.
HERDEZ™ Traditional Guacamole: A creamy, tangy dip to serve alongside and elevate each bite.

How to Make Beef Empanada Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a nonstick mat to prevent sticking. Unroll your refrigerated pie crusts on a clean surface, then use a 3-inch round pastry cutter to create evenly sized dough circles. Don’t throw away the scraps—roll them out again and cut more circles for extra empanadas!

Step 2: Cook the Beef and Veggies

In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until it’s perfectly cooked through and no longer pink. Add the diced onions along with the ground cumin, chili powder, and salt, stirring well to blend the spices. Toss in the diced green chiles and pimento peppers and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes to soften the veggies and marry the flavors.

Step 3: Mix in Tomato Paste and Cheese

Stir in the tomato paste thoroughly into the beef mixture to give it that rich, concentrated tomato flavor and a bit of thickness. Finally, fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, letting it melt slightly into the warm filling before removing the pan from heat. This cheesy element adds a luscious creaminess that makes these empanadas utterly irresistible.

Step 4: Fill and Seal the Empanadas

Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the savory beef filling onto the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, then use the tines of a fork to carefully seal the edges, pressing firmly all around to keep the filling inside as they bake.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Arrange the empanadas in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet, making sure they aren’t touching to allow even cooking. Brush each empanada with the whisked egg for that classic golden-brown gloss. Pop them in the oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the crusts turn an inviting golden color and become crisp to the touch.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the empanadas to cool just enough so they hold their shape but remain warm and gooey inside. Serve these gems alongside creamy HERDEZ™ Traditional Guacamole for a fresh, zesty contrast that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

How to Serve Beef Empanada Recipe

The image is split into two parts. On the left, several round white dough circles are laid out on a white marbled surface, each topped with a small pile of a dark ground meat mix with visible bits of red and yellow, possibly bell peppers or cheese. On the right, a woman's hand is holding a black fork and pressing the edges of the folded dough halves to seal them, creating a crimped pattern along the curved edge. Six sealed half-moon shaped dough pockets rest on the same white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or a few thin slices of jalapeño peppers can add a pop of green and a mild kick that elevates these empanadas visually and flavor-wise. For a touch of brightness, a squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving adds a delicious zing.

Side Dishes

Pair these Beef Empanadas with a light and crisp salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. Alternatively, a bowl of black beans or Mexican rice makes a perfect hearty complement, turning your meal into a full-fledged fiesta!

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these empanadas tapas-style on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of various dips like salsa, sour cream, or even a smoky chipotle aioli. Cutting a few in half to reveal the cheesy filling can also tempt hungry guests and make your presentation extra inviting and approachable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover beef empanadas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure they have completely cooled before sealing to keep the crust crispier and prevent sogginess.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked empanadas by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to two months. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time and bake from frozen for convenience.

Reheating

To reheat, pop your leftover empanadas in a 350-degree oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the dough soggy and less enjoyable.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese in this beef empanada recipe?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives a nice tangy richness, you can substitute with Mexican blend cheese, Monterey Jack, or even a mild mozzarella for a different but equally tasty experience.

Are these empanadas spicy?

The spice level is mild thanks to the chili powder and green chiles, but you can adjust the heat by using spicier peppers or swapping regular chili powder for chipotle powder to add a smoky punch.

Can I make the dough from scratch instead of using refrigerated pie crusts?

Yes, making your own empanada dough from scratch can be rewarding and delicious. However, refrigerated pie crusts are a convenient shortcut that still yields flaky, buttery results with less effort.

How do I prevent the empanadas from leaking filling during baking?

Sealing the edges firmly with a fork and not overfilling the dough circles helps prevent leaks. Also, brushing the edges with a bit of water before folding can create a stronger seal.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing after baking?

It’s best to freeze the empanadas before baking for optimal texture. Freezing them after baking can lead to a soggy crust when reheated, but if you do, reheat in the oven to help restore some crispness.

Final Thoughts

This Beef Empanada Recipe is a fantastic way to bring bold, comforting flavors into your kitchen with minimal fuss and maximum deliciousness. Perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself, these empanadas boast a beautiful balance of savory, spicy, and cheesy that will quickly become a favorite go-to. I can’t wait for you to try making these and enjoy every warm, flaky bite with friends and family!

Beef Empanada Recipe