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Few things are as satisfying as golden, crispy empanadas filled with savory beef and melted cheese. Found across Latin America, from Puerto Rico to Argentina, Mexico to the Dominican Republic, empanadas are handheld pockets of deliciousness, perfect for snacking, meal prep, or special occasions.
This Beef and Cheese Empanada recipe delivers a flaky, golden crust filled with seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and bold Latin flavors. Whether you bake or fry them, these empanadas are a crowd favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.
I’ve been making these homemade beef and cheese empanadas for years, and every time, they disappear within minutes. The combination of seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and crispy dough is pure comfort food. Trust me—one bite, and you’ll be hooked!
What Are Empanadas?
Empanadas are Latin-style hand pies, traditionally fried or baked, and filled with a variety of ingredients like beef, chicken, cheese, seafood, or even sweet fillings like guava and cream cheese.
While different regions have their own variations, the Puerto Rican, Colombian, and Mexican empanadas are some of the most famous. This beef and cheese version is a classic, savory combination that’s packed with flavorful seasonings and gooey cheese.
Ingredients for Beef and Cheese Empanadas
For the Filling
- Ground Beef (1 lb): Lean ground beef works best to avoid excess grease.
- Colby & Monterey Jack Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts beautifully, but you can also use cheddar, mozzarella, or queso blanco.
- Onion (½ cup, finely diced): Adds savory depth to the filling.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Essential for authentic Latin flavor.
- Jalapeños (1 small, diced, optional): Adds a mild heat (swap for bell peppers for a milder version).
- Green Olives (¼ cup, chopped, optional): Common in Puerto Rican and Dominican empanadas.
Seasonings for Bold Latin Flavor
- Sofrito (2 tablespoons): A must-have base for Latin cooking.
- Adobo Seasoning (1 teaspoon): Adds a deep, rich taste.
- Sazón (1 packet): A classic Latin spice mix with annatto for color and flavor.
For the Dough & Frying
- Empanada Dough Discs (12 pre-made or homemade): Goya discos work great, or you can make homemade empanada dough.
- Vegetable or Peanut Oil (for frying): Avoid olive oil for deep frying.
How to Make Empanadas
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- Step 1: Cook the Beef Filling
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil. Brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Add onion, garlic, and jalapeños, cooking until softened. Stir in sofrito, adobo, and sazón, mixing well. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before assembling the empanadas.
- Step 2: Assemble the Empanadas
- Roll out the empanada dough slightly to create more space for filling. Place 2 tablespoons of beef filling in the center of each disc. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the beef mixture. Fold the dough into a half-moon shape and press the edges down firmly. Use a fork to crimp the edges, sealing the filling inside.
- Step 3: Fry the Empanadas
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry empanadas in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces!
Variations & Substitutions
- Spicy Beef & Cheese Empanadas: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling.
- Chicken & Cheese Empanadas: Swap the beef for shredded chicken seasoned with sofrito.
- Vegetarian Empanadas: Use sautéed mushrooms, black beans, or spinach and cheese as a filling.
- Sweet & Savory: Add a touch of honey or chopped raisins for a slightly sweet contrast.
What to Serve with Empanadas
- Cilantro Lime Rice: A fresh and tangy side.
- Refried Beans: A hearty, classic pairing.
- Fried Plantains (Tostones): Adds sweetness and crunch.
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote): A bold, creamy side dish.
- Avocado Crema or Salsa Verde: For dipping!
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Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Place cooled empanadas in a ziplock bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in the Oven: Bake at 300°F for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
- Air Fryer Method: Heat at 350°F for 5 minutes until warm and crispy.
These Beef and Cheese Empanadas are crispy, cheesy, and packed with bold Latin flavors. Whether you’re making them for a casual dinner, a holiday celebration, or a snack to-go, they never disappoint.
With a golden, flaky crust and a gooey, savory filling, this recipe is pure comfort food that brings the flavors of Latin America straight to your kitchen.
Try them today and see why they’re an all-time favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I bake these instead of frying?
- Yes! Bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes until golden brown.
- → What type of cheese works best?
- Colby & Monterey Jack are great, but cheddar or mozzarella can also be used.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
- Yes! Assemble the empanadas and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- → How do I store leftovers?
- Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- → Can I use a different meat?
- Absolutely! Ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even a veggie filling works well.