Steak and Cheese Empanadas Recipe

Introduction

Steak and Cheese Empanadas are a savory, flavorful snack or meal that perfectly combines tender steak, melted cheese, and a crispy, flaky dough. These empanadas are filled with a delicious mixture of seasoned beef and cheese, encased in a golden-brown pastry that offers a satisfying crunch with each bite. Whether you’re looking for an appetizer for a party or a hearty meal for dinner, these empanadas are sure to impress.

Empanadas are a popular dish in many cultures, especially in Latin American countries, where they are often filled with a variety of meats, cheeses, vegetables, and even sweet fillings. The combination of steak and cheese is a classic flavor pairing that brings together rich, savory, and cheesy goodness in every bite. Perfect for meal prepping or serving at your next gathering, Steak and Cheese Empanadas are easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love Steak and Cheese Empanadas

• Hearty and Satisfying: These empanadas are packed with a delicious filling that’s both hearty and comforting. The combination of tender steak, melty cheese, and flavorful seasonings creates a mouthwatering filling that is perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or snack.
• Crispy and Flaky Crust: The empanada dough turns golden brown and crispy when baked, creating a contrast of textures with the soft, savory filling. Each bite offers the perfect balance of crunch and chewiness.
• Customizable: While the steak and cheese filling is a classic, you can easily customize it with additional ingredients like sautéed onions, peppers, or even a touch of spice with jalapeños.
• Great for Meal Prep: These empanadas can be made in advance and stored for later, making them a great option for meal prepping. They freeze well and can be easily reheated when you’re ready to enjoy them.
• Versatile: Serve them as a snack, appetizer, or main course. These empanadas pair well with a variety of dipping sauces like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole, making them a great addition to any meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 12 empanadas
• Calories per Serving: Around 250-300 calories per empanada, depending on portion sizes and ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Fat: 14-18g
• Carbohydrates: 20-25g
• Protein: 15-18g
• Fiber: 1-2g
• Sugar: 1-2g

Ingredients

For the Empanada Filling:

• 1 lb flank steak or skirt steak, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Optional: 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped
• Optional: 1-2 jalapeños, diced (for extra spice)

For the Empanada Dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• ½ cup ice-cold water (you may need a little more or less, depending on dough consistency)

Assembling the Empanadas:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 2 tablespoons water

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Empanada Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to incorporate it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The butter should be evenly distributed but still in small pieces to ensure a flaky crust.

Gradually add the ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough begins to come together. You may need slightly more or less water depending on the consistency of your dough. Be careful not to add too much water, as this could result in a tough dough.

Once the dough has come together, knead it on a lightly floured surface for a few minutes until smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up. This step will help you achieve a tender, flaky crust.

2. Cook the Steak Filling

While the dough is chilling, prepare the filling. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Then add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the thinly sliced steak to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the steak is browned and cooked through. Season the mixture with cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the steak and onions in the seasonings. If you’re adding bell pepper or jalapeños, stir them into the mixture at this point.

Once the steak is cooked, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. The cheese will melt into the steak mixture, creating a creamy and savory filling. Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes before assembling the empanadas.

3. Roll Out the Dough

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

Once the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece of dough into a ball and then flatten it into a round disk on a lightly floured surface. Each disk should be about 4-5 inches in diameter.

If the dough becomes too sticky, lightly flour your rolling pin or surface. The goal is to have even, thin circles of dough that will hold the filling without breaking.

4. Assemble the Empanadas

Place a heaping tablespoon of the steak and cheese filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make the empanadas difficult to seal.

Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, pressing the edges together to seal them. You can use a fork to crimp the edges and ensure a tight seal. Alternatively, you can press the edges with your fingers and twist them slightly to create a more decorative border.

Place the assembled empanadas on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are spaced evenly.

5. Brush with Egg Wash

In a small bowl, beat the remaining egg with 2 tablespoons of water to make an egg wash. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the egg wash over the top of each empanada. This will give them a beautiful golden color when baked.

6. Bake the Empanadas

Place the empanadas in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to ensure they don’t over-brown.

7. Cool and Serve

Once the empanadas are baked, allow them to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Serve with your favorite dipping sauces such as salsa, sour cream, or guacamole. These empanadas make a perfect appetizer, snack, or main course.

Tips for Perfect Steak and Cheese Empanadas

• Use Cold Butter: For a flaky, tender crust, it’s important that the butter is cold when you mix it with the flour. The cold butter creates small pockets of air in the dough, which results in a crisp, flaky texture when baked.
• Don’t Overfill the Empanadas: Be careful not to overfill the empanadas with the steak and cheese mixture, as this can cause the filling to spill out during baking. A heaping tablespoon of filling per empanada is usually enough.
• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is an essential step in making these empanadas. It not only helps the dough firm up for easier handling but also results in a flakier crust.
• Customize the Filling: Feel free to get creative with the filling! You can add sautéed peppers, mushrooms, or even olives for added flavor. Adjust the seasonings to your taste for a personalized touch.
• Make Ahead and Freeze: These empanadas can be made in advance and frozen before baking. Simply assemble the empanadas, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake them, simply add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.

Variations of Steak and Cheese Empanadas

• Spicy Steak and Cheese Empanadas: For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling mixture. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chipotle powder for an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Empanadas: For a vegetarian version, swap the steak for sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and onions. You can also add beans, corn, or roasted peppers for a hearty, flavorful filling.
• Steak and Blue Cheese Empanadas: If you love bold flavors, try substituting the cheddar and mozzarella with crumbled blue cheese. The tangy, rich flavor of blue cheese pairs perfectly with steak.
• Mini Empanadas: For a bite-sized version, roll the dough into smaller circles and use less filling. Mini empanadas make for great appetizers at parties or gatherings.

Storage and Shelf Life

Steak and Cheese Empanadas are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later. Allow them to cool completely and then place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

For longer storage, freeze the empanadas. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen empanadas can last up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Steak and Cheese Empanadas

Pair these delicious empanadas with complementary sides and beverages to create a complete meal:

• Salsa and Guacamole: Serve with a side of fresh salsa and guacamole for a flavorful and refreshing contrast to the rich empanadas.
• Mexican Rice: A side of cilantro-lime rice or Mexican rice makes a perfect pairing to complete your meal.
• Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add a nice texture and flavor that complements the steak and cheese filling.
• Margaritas or Iced Tea: For a refreshing drink pairing, serve these empanadas with a cold glass of iced tea or a classic margarita.

Print

Conclusion

Steak and Cheese Empanadas are a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their crispy, flaky crust and savory steak and cheese filling, they’re sure to be a hit with friends and family. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main course, these empanadas are guaranteed to impress.

With easy-to-follow instructions and a variety of filling options, you can customize these empanadas to suit your tastes. Whether you make them ahead of time or enjoy them fresh from the oven, Steak and Cheese Empanadas are a comforting and flavorful dish that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.