Spicy Beef and Cheese Empanadas

These spicy beef and cheese empanadas are a delicious and savory treat, perfect for parties or as a satisfying meal. With a flavorful filling of seasoned ground beef and melted pepper jack cheese, these empanadas are sure to please any crowd.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1 package empanada dough
1 egg, beaten for brushing

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a pan, cook the ground beef and onions over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in the chili powder and cumin, then add the shredded pepper jack cheese, mixing until melted.
4. Roll out the empanada dough and cut it into circles.
5. Place 1-2 tablespoons of the beef mixture in the center of each dough circle, fold in half, and seal the edges with a fork.
6. Brush the tops with the beaten egg and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 4 servings. The total prep time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 20 minutes, bringing the total time to about 35 minutes.

Variations

• Different Cheeses: Swap pepper jack cheese for cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination of your favorites.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers or jalapeños into the beef mixture for added flavor and crunch.
• Spicy Twist: For an extra kick, add diced green chilies or hot sauce to the filling.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain crispness.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
   Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even meat substitutes work well.
2. Is there a vegetarian option?
   Absolutely! Replace the beef with black beans or lentils, and add your favorite vegetables.
3. Can I freeze empanadas?
   Yes, they can be frozen before or after baking. Just make sure to store them in airtight containers.
4. What should I serve with empanadas?
   They pair well with salsa, guacamole, or a fresh salad.
5. Do I have to use empanada dough?
   You can use pie crust or puff pastry as an alternative, though the texture will be different.
6. How do I know when they are done?
   They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside when finished.
7. Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
   Yes, the filling can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for a day or two.
8. What’s the best way to seal the edges?
   Use a fork to crimp the edges securely, ensuring they are sealed to prevent leakage during baking.
9. How spicy are these empanadas?
   They have a mild to moderate heat level due to the pepper jack cheese and spices; adjust accordingly to your preference.
10. Are empanadas suitable for meal prep?
    Yes, they are great for meal prep and can be easily reheated for a quick meal.

Conclusion

Spicy beef and cheese empanadas are a delightful combination of flavors that are both satisfying and easy to make. Whether served as an appetizer or main dish, they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering or family meal. Enjoy these delicious pastries warm from the oven!

Print