Empanadas with Spicy Beef and Cheese

“Crispy on the outside, oozing with spicy beef and cheese on the inside—these empanadas are perfect finger food…. or just easy food!”
Thomy

The Story Behind Empanadas

Empanadas are a beloved snack or meal in many South-American cuisines, known for their flaky pastry and flavorful fillings. These empanadas take the classic recipe and add a spicy twist with seasoned beef and melted cheese. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a cozy dinner, these bites are satisfying, easy to make, and irresistibly delicious.

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About the Recipe

This recipe combines the best of spicy and cheesy flavors wrapped in a buttery, flaky pastry. The ground beef is seasoned with spices, chilies, and a touch of garlic, perfectly complemented by gooey melted cheese. To elevate the dish, we’ve added a French-inspired twist with a hint of Dijon mustard and creamy Comté cheese, bringing richness and depth to the filling. Whether baked or fried, these empanadas are an absolute crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1 tbsp white vinegar

For the Filling:

• 300g ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small red chili, finely chopped (adjust for heat)
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (or substitute with Comté Cheese)

Thomy Twist:

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 cup grated Comté cheese

For Assembly:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Optional garnish: chopped parsley

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Instructions

1. Make the Dough
   In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the chilled butter and work it into the flour using your hands or a pastry cutter until crumbly. Whisk the egg with water and vinegar, then gradually add it to the mixture, forming a dough. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling
   Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and chili, cooking until softened. Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Stir in paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix in Dijon mustard and remove from heat. Once cooled, stir in the cheese—either cheddar or Monterey Jack, or replace with Comté for a French-inspired flavor.
3. Assemble the Empanadas
   Roll out the dough on a floured surface to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles about 5-6 inches in diameter using a cookie cutter or bowl. Place a generous spoonful of filling in the center of each circle, fold over to form a half-moon, and seal the edges with a fork.
4. Bake or Fry
   For baking: Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Place empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
   For frying: Heat oil in a deep pan to 180°C (350°F) and fry empanadas in batches until golden, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve and Garnish
   Serve hot with optional chopped parsley for garnish and your favorite dipping sauce.

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Thomy Twist

Add a touch of Dijon mustard to the filling for a tangy French flair, and replace cheddar with Comté cheese for a creamy, nutty richness. These subtle additions elevate the empanadas with a refined French-inspired twist.

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Elevate the Experience

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Why You’ll Love This

These Empanadas with Spicy Beef and Cheese are crispy, flavorful, and endlessly versatile. The French-inspired twist takes them to the next level, making them perfect as appetizers, party snacks, or even a quick lunch option.