Heart-Shaped Empanadas – Beef and Cheese

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Heart-Shaped Beef and Cheese Empanadas are a delightful and creative twist on the classic empanada, perfect for a special occasion like Valentine’s Day or just to add some fun to your meal. These little pockets of crispy pastry are filled with a savory combination of seasoned ground beef and melted cheese, all shaped into adorable heart forms. The golden, flaky crust provides a perfect contrast to the flavorful, cheesy filling, making them irresistible.

I first made heart-shaped empanadas when I wanted to make a cute, themed snack for a gathering. The combination of seasoned beef, onions, garlic, and a bit of cheese inside the flaky dough is simple but delicious. You can use store-bought dough for a quick and easy option, or make your own for a more homemade touch. The heart shape adds a personal touch, making them perfect for sharing with loved ones. These empanadas are easy to eat with your hands and are sure to be a hit at any celebration or as a fun weeknight treat!

Perfect for:

  • Valentine’s Day
  • Dinner parties
  • Romantic dinners
  • Appetizers
  • Family gatherings
  • Comfort food lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why these Heart-Shaped Empanadas – Beef and Cheese will become your go-to treat:

  • Perfectly Crispy: The empanada crust is golden and crispy, creating a satisfying crunch with every bite.
  • Savory Filling: The combination of seasoned beef and melted cheese creates a rich, flavorful filling.
  • Fun Shape: The heart shape makes these empanadas perfect for special occasions or just to show a little love.
  • Quick to Make: These empanadas come together in no time, making them a great choice for busy cooks.
  • Easy to Customize: Feel free to add extra ingredients like olives, onions, or peppers for a unique twist.
  • Perfect for Sharing: Their bite-sized nature makes them ideal for parties and gatherings.
  • Freezable: You can prepare these empanadas ahead of time and freeze them for a quick snack or meal later.
  • Versatile Filling: Swap the beef for chicken, pork, or even a vegetarian option for different flavor profiles.
  • Great for All Ages: Both kids and adults love these cheesy, savory empanadas.
  • No Fuss Recipe: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time make these a stress-free treat.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 30 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 12 empanadas
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 15g, Carbs: 20g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

For the Empanada Dough:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into cubes
  • 1/4 cup cold water (more if needed)
  • 1 large egg (for egg wash)

For the Beef and Cheese Filling:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional Garnishes:

  • Fresh cilantro
  • Sour cream
  • Salsa

Ingredient Highlights

  • Ground Beef: Provides a rich and savory filling for the empanadas.
  • Shredded Cheese: Adds gooey, melty texture and flavor to the filling.
  • Spices: Cumin, paprika, and chili powder bring warmth and depth to the beef mixture.
  • Cold Butter in Dough: Ensures a flaky, tender empanada crust.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Empanada Dough:

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
  2. Cut in Butter: Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or fork to incorporate the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Add Water: Gradually add the cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to come together.
  4. Form Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead briefly until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Beef and Cheese Filling:

  1. Cook Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
  2. Season Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
  3. Spice it Up: Stir in the cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and well combined. Let the mixture cool.

Assemble the Empanadas:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll out Dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough out to about 1/8-inch thick.
  3. Cut Heart Shapes: Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter or stencil to cut out heart shapes from the dough.
  4. Fill Empanadas: Place a spoonful of the beef and cheese filling in the center of each heart-shaped dough piece.
  5. Seal Edges: Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together with a fork to seal.
  6. Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the top of each empanada for a golden, shiny finish.

Bake the Empanadas:

  1. Bake: Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Serve:

  1. Garnish and Serve: Serve warm with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or salsa for dipping.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Heart-Shaped Empanadas – Beef and Cheese:

  • As a Romantic Snack: Perfect for a cozy Valentine’s Day dinner or romantic evening.
  • With Salsa: Serve with your favorite salsa for a fresh, zesty contrast.
  • With Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream complements the savory filling.
  • As an Appetizer: Serve these heart-shaped empanadas as a starter at parties.
  • As a Family Dinner: Pair with a side salad and enjoy a hearty meal.
  • For Game Day: These empanadas are perfect for watching the big game.
  • As a Picnic Treat: Pack them in your picnic basket for a fun, portable meal.
  • With Guacamole: For an extra creamy dip, serve with guacamole on the side.
  • As a Party Food: Serve them at your next gathering as a fun finger food.
  • With A Cold Drink: Pair with a cold beer or a refreshing iced tea for a great combination.

Additional Tips

  • Don’t Overfill: Avoid overfilling the empanadas to prevent spilling during baking.
  • Seal Well: Make sure the edges are properly sealed to avoid the filling leaking out while baking.
  • Keep Dough Cold: Keeping the dough cold helps achieve a flaky, tender crust.
  • Freeze for Later: If making ahead, freeze the unbaked empanadas and bake them directly from the freezer for about 30 minutes.
  • Customize Fillings: You can swap out the beef for chicken, pork, or even black beans for a vegetarian option.

Recipe Variations

  • Chicken and Cheese Empanadas: Swap the ground beef for cooked, shredded chicken for a lighter option.
  • Vegetarian Empanadas: Use a mix of sautéed vegetables like peppers, onions, and spinach for a delicious vegetarian filling.
  • Spicy Beef Empanadas: Add a chopped jalapeño or hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
  • Cheese Empanadas: Skip the meat and fill with just cheese for a simple and gooey filling.
  • Sweet and Savory: Add a bit of sweetness with a spoonful of raisins or olives in the filling.

Special Equipment

  • Rolling Pin: For rolling out the dough.
  • Heart-Shaped Cookie Cutter: For cutting out the heart shapes.
  • Pastry Brush: For applying the egg wash to the empanadas.
  • Fork: For sealing the edges of the empanadas.
  • Baking Sheet: For baking the empanadas.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use store-bought dough?
    Yes, you can substitute store-bought empanada dough for homemade dough for a quicker option.
  2. How long can I store the empanadas?
    Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for best results.
  3. Can I freeze these empanadas?
    Yes, freeze them before baking. To cook, bake from frozen for 30 minutes at 375°F.
  4. Can I make these vegetarian?
    Absolutely! Use a mix of vegetables, beans, or tofu instead of meat for a vegetarian option.
  5. How do I prevent the dough from getting soggy?
    Ensure the filling is cool before sealing the dough to prevent excess moisture.
  6. Can I make mini empanadas?
    Yes, simply use a smaller cookie cutter to create mini heart-shaped empanadas.
  7. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
    Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative.
  8. Can I bake these empanadas instead of frying them?
    Yes, baking them at 375°F results in a crispy, golden exterior without the need for frying.
  9. How do I reheat the empanadas?
    Reheat in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 350°F until crispy.
  10. Can I add beans to the filling?
    Yes, black beans or refried beans can be a great addition to the filling.

Conclusion

Heart-shaped empanadas are a delightful and festive twist on the classic savory pastry, perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or just as a fun way to show love through food. These golden, flaky pastries are filled with a rich, savory mixture of seasoned ground beef and melty cheese, offering a satisfying bite with every crunch. The heart-shaped shape adds a touch of charm, making them even more special for any celebration.

The filling is simple to prepare with a blend of beef, onions, garlic, and your favorite seasonings, mixed with cheese for a creamy, indulgent touch. You can use store-bought dough for convenience or make your own for a more homemade touch. Once assembled, these empanadas are baked to golden perfection, resulting in a crisp outer shell with a warm, cheesy, and flavorful center. Serve them with a side of salsa or a creamy dipping sauce for an added burst of flavor.

I can’t wait to see how your Heart-Shaped Beef and Cheese Empanadas turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made them your own!