Beef Empanadas from Bahama Breeze feature seasoned ground beef, sauteed onions, and melted cheese encased in a golden, flaky pastry, offering a savory and satisfying handheld appetizer.
Equipments
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Pastry brush
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Fork
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/3 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts or puff pastry
- 1 egg
Use ground beef with moderate fat content to ensure juicy filling without excessive grease. Fresh onions and garlic enhance the aromatic profile, while ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper provide authentic, well-balanced seasoning. Opt for a blend of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese to achieve a creamy, melty texture. Refrigerated pie crusts or puff pastry offer a convenient base but rolling them out evenly will help create a golden, flaky envelope. Your Beef Empanadas from Bahama Breeze copycat will deliver the perfect combination of savory beef, melty cheese, and flaky crust that makes this appetizer stand out.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Dice the onion.
- Heat skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef to skillet.
- Cook beef until browned; drain excess fat.
- Add diced onions to skillet.
- Sauté until onions are soft.
- Stir in minced garlic.
- Add cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato sauce.
- Simmer mixture for 3-4 minutes; remove from heat.
- Let filling cool for 5-10 minutes.
- Stir in shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
- Roll out pie crusts or puff pastry on a floured surface.
- Cut dough into 5- to 6-inch circles.
- Place 2 tablespoons of beef mixture in center of each dough circle.
- Fold dough over to form a half-moon shape.
- Press edges together with a fork to seal.
- Place shaped empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Beat egg in a small bowl.
- Brush tops of empanadas with beaten egg.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from oven; transfer to cooling rack.
- Serve warm.
Substitution
Beef Empanadas from Bahama Breeze copycat menu combine seasoned ground beef, sauteed onions, and melted cheeses within a flaky pastry crust, creating a perfect balance of savory flavors. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if preferred for a lighter option without sacrificing taste. If refrigerated pie crusts or puff pastry are unavailable, homemade dough or pre-made flatbread can be used as alternatives, although texture may vary. When measuring spices like cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, adjust quantities based on your preferred spice level to customize the heat. Using parchment paper on your baking sheet prevents sticking and facilitates even baking for golden, crispy empanadas.
Tips
Ensure the ground beef is thoroughly drained after browning to prevent soggy empanadas. Allow your filling to cool before adding cheese to avoid it melting prematurely and altering the texture. When sealing the dough, use a fork to press the edges firmly, preventing leaks during baking. Brush the tops with beaten egg evenly for a glossy, golden finish that enhances both appearance and flavor.
Nutritions
Beef Empanadas from Bahama Breeze provide a balanced source of protein from the seasoned ground beef and melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, essential for muscle repair and satiety. The inclusion of onions and garlic adds dietary fiber and antioxidants, supporting digestive health and immune function. The golden, flaky pastry contributes carbohydrates for energy, while spices like cumin and smoked paprika offer anti-inflammatory benefits. You can enjoy this savory handheld appetizer as a satisfying meal option that combines macronutrients and flavorful seasonings.
Storage
Store your Beef Empanadas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their flaky texture and savory flavor. For longer storage, refrigerate the empanadas for up to 4 days, reheating them in the oven at 350degF (175degC) for 10-15 minutes to regain crispness. Freezing cooked empanadas can extend shelf life up to 2 months; thaw thoroughly before reheating to ensure even warming of the ground beef filling and melted cheese.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to create a lighter version of these empanadas without losing flavor. Instead of pie crust, try using homemade empanada dough or phyllo pastry for a flakier texture. For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with sauteed mushrooms, black beans, or spiced lentils combined with the same seasoning blend. Adding finely chopped bell peppers or olives to the filling introduces an extra layer of taste, enhancing your empanadas' complexity.
Allergies
Beef Empanadas from Bahama Breeze contain common allergens such as dairy from the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, and eggs used in the dough or as a wash. The pastry crust may also contain wheat, which is a gluten source that can trigger reactions in people with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. If you have allergies to dairy, eggs, or gluten, it's important to review ingredient labels carefully or consult with the restaurant before consuming your empanada.
Why this recipe?
Beef Empanadas from Bahama Breeze restaurant stand out due to their flavorful blend of seasoned ground beef, onions, and spices encased in a perfectly crispy, golden pastry. The harmonious balance of savory and slightly tangy ingredients delivers an authentic Caribbean-inspired taste that keeps diners coming back for more. You'll appreciate how replicating this recipe captures the essence of Bahama Breeze's unique culinary craftsmanship, allowing you to enjoy this signature dish anytime at home. Making a copycat version saves money while offering a satisfying, restaurant-quality appetizer or snack experience.