Ingredients

The following ingredients have 4 Servings
  • 1 batch empanada dough ((or 2-3 pie crusts) (see link below for recipe))
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded beef ((click or see below for recipe) (or leftover steak or beef))
  • 3/4 cup corn kernels
  • 1/4 cup cotija cheese (crumbled (approximately 1 ounce))
  • 1/2 jalapeno (seeded, finely chopped (or more))
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 lime
  • 2 Tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped, optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg (beaten)

Instruction

  • Make your empanada dough. Use the dough recipe in the notes section below or pie crust.
  • Roll out the empanada dough until it is approximately 1/8 inch thick.
  • Use a glass or another round object to cut out circles of the dough approximately 3 inches wide. Repeat this process with the scraps until you have used all (or most) of the dough. You should get approximately 24 circles at 3 inches wide.
  • Heat the oven to 375F.
  • Make the corn filling by combining the corn, cotija cheese, jalapeno, chili powder, lime, cilantro, and salt in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste as desired. Prepare your shredded beef by draining as much liquid off as possible. If using leftover beef or steak, make sure it is shredded or a fine dice to make it easier to stuff.
  • Place approximately 1 Tablespoon of the beef and 1/2 Tablespoon of the corn mixture in the middle of a dough circle. Fold the dough in half and press along the edges to seal. Press a fork along the edge to create the textured effect. Repeat with the rest of the dough and filling.
  • If your filling is wet, use a knife to cut slits in the top of each empanada. This will allow steam to release and prevent the dough from getting soggy inside. Use any design you would like.
  • Place the empanadas on a silicone mat lined baking sheet. They will not expand too much, so they can be placed close together. Brush the beaten egg on top of each empanada to give it a golden and shiny finish.
  • Bake the empanadas for approximately 20-22 minutes until the dough is firm to the touch. Serve warm with your favorite sauces for dipping like sour cream, guacamole, or enchilada sauces.