Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the empanadas from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes, until softened and translucent. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.

Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to ensure it doesn’t burn. The garlic will infuse the oil with flavor, making the base for the filling.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

Add the 1 lb of ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break up the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Stir in 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder, along with salt and pepper to taste.

Cook the beef mixture, stirring occasionally, for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until the meat is fully browned and cooked through. The spices will create a rich, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Once the beef is browned, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese while the mixture is still hot. The cheese will melt and combine with the beef, creating a creamy, cheesy filling for the empanadas.

Step 5: Prepare the Dough

While the filling cools slightly, roll out the 14 oz package of refrigerated pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Using a 4-inch round cutter (or a glass or lid if you don’t have one), cut out circles of dough. You should get about 12 circles from the package, depending on how thin you roll the crust.

Step 6: Fill the Empanadas

Place a spoonful of the beef and cheese filling in the center of each dough circle, being careful not to overfill. The amount should be enough to fill the empanada but still allow you to seal it without difficulty.

Step 7: Fold and Seal

Fold each dough circle in half to create a half-moon shape, encasing the filling. Press the edges of the dough together gently, then use the tines of a fork to crimp and seal the edges. This will give the empanadas their signature look and ensure the filling stays inside during baking.

Step 8: Apply Egg Wash

Place the sealed empanadas onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Brush the tops of the empanadas with beaten egg. This will give them a golden, shiny finish when they bake.

Step 9: Bake the Empanadas

Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp on the outside. The exact time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to ensure they don’t over-brown.

Step 10: Serve

Once the empanadas are baked to golden perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before serving. These delicious beef and cheese empanadas are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven.