Golden, flaky hand pies filled with a savory mix of seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and herbs, then baked to crispy perfection. These empanadas are hearty, satisfying, and ideal for parties, lunchboxes, or a comforting dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Beef and Cheese Empanadas are the ultimate comfort food—warm, crispy on the outside, and bursting with flavorful filling. This baked version is lighter than the traditional fried empanadas but still delivers a deliciously golden crust. They’re easy to customize, freezer-friendly, and perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or weeknight dinners. Whether served with a dipping sauce or on their own, they never disappoint.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Filling:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 lb ground beef
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley

For Assembly:

• 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk (egg wash)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add the egg and cold water. Mix until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add ground beef, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked.
5. Remove from heat. Let the mixture cool slightly, then stir in shredded cheese and chopped parsley.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Roll the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into 4–5 inch circles.
8. Place 1–2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold over to form a half-moon and press edges with a fork to seal.
9. Arrange on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush tops with the egg wash.
10. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 12 empanadas.
Prep time: 45 minutes (including chilling)
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes to the beef mixture.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a mix of beans and vegetables.
• Different Cheeses: Use pepper jack for spice or provolone for a milder flavor.
• Store-Bought Dough: Use empanada discs or pie crust for convenience.
• Mini Empanadas: Make smaller versions for appetizers or party snacks.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat:

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 10–12 minutes until warm and crisp.
• Microwave: Heat for 30–60 seconds (crust will be softer).
• Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 5–7 minutes for a crispy finish.

To freeze:

• Freeze unbaked or baked empanadas in a single layer on a tray. Once solid, transfer to freezer bags.
• Bake directly from frozen at 375°F, adding 5–7 extra minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, the dough can be made a day ahead and stored wrapped in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze empanadas before baking?

Absolutely. Freeze them unbaked and bake directly from frozen when ready to enjoy.

What can I serve with these empanadas?

They pair well with salsa, chimichurri, sour cream, or a simple green salad.

Can I use puff pastry instead of homemade dough?

Yes, puff pastry creates a flakier texture and is a great shortcut for quicker prep.

Are these empanadas spicy?

No, they are mild. You can increase the heat by adding spicy elements to the filling.

Can I bake them instead of frying?

Yes, this recipe is specifically for baking, making them a lighter alternative to fried empanadas.

How do I prevent the empanadas from bursting?

Avoid overfilling and make sure the edges are well-sealed with a fork or crimping tool.

What other meats can I use?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even shredded rotisserie chicken are good alternatives.

How do I keep the bottoms from getting soggy?

Use a parchment-lined baking sheet and avoid overloading the filling with liquid.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the dough and check all filling ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Baked Beef and Cheese Empanadas offer a flavorful, satisfying handheld meal perfect for any occasion. With a crisp golden crust and rich, cheesy filling, they strike the perfect balance of comfort and convenience. Easy to customize and freezer-friendly, this is a versatile recipe that deserves a spot in every home cook’s rotation.

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