CHEESY BEEF EMPANADAS

“Deliciously cheesy and packed with savory beef, these empanadas are the perfect blend of crispy and gooey. Ideal for a hearty snack or a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

For the Dough:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup cold water (more if needed)

For Assembly:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Oil for frying (if frying) or parchment paper (if baking)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the onion and bell pepper, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the tomato sauce, beef broth, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped cilantro (if using). Set aside.

2. Make the Dough:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk the egg and cold water together. Pour this mixture into the flour and butter mixture, stirring until the dough comes together. If necessary, add a little more water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough is smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into two portions, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

3. Assemble the Empanadas:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking, or heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C) if frying.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into circles using a 4-5 inch round cutter.
3. Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, using a fork to crimp the edges if desired.
4. If baking, place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg.
5. If frying, carefully place empanadas in the hot oil and fry in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

4. Serve:

1. Let the empanadas cool slightly before serving. They’re delicious warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your cheesy beef empanadas!