Ingredients:
For the dough:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
1 egg
1/3 cup cold water
1 tbsp vinegar
For the filling:
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For assembly:
1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Instructions:
Prepare the dough:
In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, cold water, and vinegar. Add this to the flour mixture and mix until a dough forms. Knead lightly, then cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Make the beef filling:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
Add the ground beef and garlic, breaking up the beef as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked through.
Stir in cumin, paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors. Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool slightly.
Assemble the empanadas:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thick. Use a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter) to cut circles from the dough.
Place a spoonful of the beef filling and a sprinkle of cheese in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, and press the edges together with a fork to seal.
Brush with egg wash:
Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg to give them a golden finish.
Bake:
Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Serve:
Allow the empanadas to cool slightly before serving. These are perfect with a side of salsa or sour cream for dipping!
Enjoy these Beef and Cheese Empanadas, a savory, cheesy treat perfect for a snack, appetizer, or meal!😋😘
