Ingredients

1 1/2 lbs ground sirloin
1 onion , chopped
2 jalapenos , chopped
2 roma tomatoes , chopped
1/2 cup rice , cooked
1/2 cup monterey jack cheese , shredded
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon garlic powder
salt
pepper
2 refrigerated pie crusts
4 tablespoons green onions , chopped
1/4 cup shredded monterey jack cheese
1/2 cup cilantro , chopped
1 roma tomato , chopped
1 cup romaine lettuce , chopped
1/2 cup salsa
6 tablespoons sour cream
1 avocado , sliced
Empanadas are a popular savory pastry in Latin America, made by wrapping a filling of meat, vegetables, or cheese in a dough shell before baking or frying. This recipe for Easy Giant Empanada puts a twist on the classic pastry by using two pie crusts instead of traditional empanada dough. The result is a delicious and filling meal that can be made in under an hour. This recipe features a beef filling with rice, cheese, and vegetables like jalapenos, onions, and tomatoes, making it a complete and balanced meal. Serve with your favorite toppings like salsa, sour cream, and avocado for a satisfying and flavorful meal that the whole family will love.

Instructions

1.Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2.In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground sirloin, onions, and jalapenos until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent.
3.Add in the chopped tomatoes, cooked rice, ½ cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4.Layer the two pie crusts on top of one another and roll them out to about 16 inches in diameter.
5.Spoon the beef mixture onto the center of the crusts, leaving about a 2-inch border around the edge.
6.Sprinkle the ¼ cup of shredded cheese on top of the beef mixture, followed by the green onions, cilantro, and chopped tomato.
7.Bring the pie crust borders up and over the filling, pinching and folding them to seal.
8.Place the empanada on a baking sheet and bake the empanada in the oven for about 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
9.While the empanada is baking, mix together the chopped lettuce, salsa, and sour cream in a bowl.
10.Once the empanada is done baking, allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing it into wedges and serving it with the lettuce mixture and sliced avocado.

PROS

This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal for the whole family.

It can be customized to include your favorite fillings, making it a versatile and flavorful dish.

The combination of beef, rice, cheese, and vegetables makes for a balanced and hearty meal.

CONS

The pie crust used in the recipe is high in calories and fat, which may not be suitable for those on a strict diet.

The beef filling may not be suitable for vegetarians or those who prefer not to eat red meat.

If not prepared carefully, the empanada may fall apart while baking or when slicing.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While this recipe is not particularly healthy due to the high-calorie crust and fatty beef filling, it does contain some nutrient-rich ingredients.
Beef is a good source of protein and iron, while vegetables like tomatoes, jalapenos, and lettuce provide essential vitamins and minerals.
However, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

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