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Cinco de Mayo Empanadas

Cinco de Mayo Empanadas

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with these flavorful empanadas filled with seasoned beef and cheese, perfect for a festive snack or appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
  • 1/3 cup cold water
  • 1 egg, beaten (for sealing)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in the chilled butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Gradually add cold water, mixing until dough forms a ball. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and green bell pepper; sauté until softened.
  4. Add ground beef, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until beef is browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese and cilantro.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out dough on a floured surface and cut into 4-5 inch circles.
  6. Place a spoonful of beef mixture in center of each dough circle. Brush edges with beaten egg, fold dough over filling, and press edges with a fork to seal.
  7. Place empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush tops with egg wash.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Serve with a side of salsa verde or guacamole for an extra burst of flavor.