The moment I took my first bite of these Air Fryer Empanadas, I was transported to a bustling street market filled with vibrant flavors and savory aromas. Picture this: the flaky pastry gives way to a warm, spiced beef filling, perfectly complemented by melted cheese—true comfort food at its best!
After a long week of fast food and takeout, I craved something homemade that still packed a punch in the flavor department. Inspired by a few left-over ingredients in my pantry, this recipe was born out of a desire to create a delicious meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for guests.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be indulging in a mouthwatering treat that keeps the stress of cooking at bay. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, these empanadas promise to be a hit at any table. Bon appétit!
Why will you love this Air Fryer Empanadas Recipe?
Simplicity at Its Best: You can whip up these empanadas in just 27 minutes, perfect for any busy weeknight.
Flavor Explosion: The blend of taco seasoning and cheese delivers a lively taste that will transport you straight to culinary heaven.
Versatile Filling: Feel free to experiment with different proteins or veggies—it’s a recipe that adapts to your cravings!
Crowd-Pleasing: Serve them at parties or gatherings, and watch your friends and family rave about these delicious bites.
Healthier Option: Enjoy all the crispy goodness without the guilt, thanks to the air fryer method that cuts down on oil and calories!
Now’s the time to rise above fast food—explore this recipe to savor homemade goodness!
Air Fryer Empanadas Recipe Ingredients
• The ingredients needed to create these delightful Air Fryer Empanadas are simple yet flavorful.
- 1 lb ground beef – choose lean for a healthier option
- 1 small bell pepper, diced – adds sweetness and color
- 1 packet taco seasoning (1 oz.) – for that perfect blend of spices
- 1/4 cup beef broth – keeps the filling juicy and flavorful
- 1 pkg refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts total) – shortcuts are welcome for easy prep
- 1/2 cup cheese, shredded – use your favorite melting cheese for added richness
- 1/2 small onion, diced – enhances the savory depth of the filling
- 1 large egg, whisked – for brushing, giving a golden finish
Gather these ingredients, and you’re just moments away from indulging in your own homemade, crispy Air Fryer Empanadas!
How to Make Air Fryer Empanadas
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Cook the Filling: In a medium pan over medium heat, cook the ground beef, diced bell pepper, and onion. Sauté until the beef is browned and the onion turns transparent, about 5-7 minutes.
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Mix Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning and beef broth until everything is well combined. Then remove the pan from heat and allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes.
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Prepare the Dough: Roll out the refrigerated pie crust on a non-stick surface. Using a 5-inch round bowl or cup, cut out three circles from one pie crust.
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Cut Additional Circles: Combine the leftover dough, rolling it out to match the thickness of the original crust. Cut a fourth circle. Repeat with the other pie crust until you have a total of 8 circles.
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Fill the Empanadas: Once the beef mixture is cooled, spoon 2-3 tablespoons onto each circle. Sprinkle with cheese. Fold the dough over in half and use a bit of water to seal the edges, crimping with a fork for a decorative finish.
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Brush and Air Fry: Whisk the egg and brush each empanada with it for a shiny, golden look. Place four empanadas at a time in a greased air fryer basket. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F for 5 minutes.
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Cook Perfection: Cook the empanadas at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy. Serve with your favorite dips like sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.
Optional: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Empanadas?
Delight your taste buds with mouthwatering accompaniments that elevate your empanada experience.
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Sour Cream: A dollop of cool, creamy sour cream balances the savory filling, adding a refreshing twist.
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Fresh Salsa: Zesty tomato salsa brings a burst of freshness that complements the spiced beef beautifully. Pairing the two offers a wonderful contrast of flavors.
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Guacamole: The rich and creamy texture of guacamole pairs perfectly with the crispy empanadas, rounding out each bite in avocado bliss.
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Spanish Rice: Fluffy, seasoned rice adds a satisfying base to your meal while extending the flavors of the empanadas.
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Chopped Salad: A light salad with crisp greens, cucumber, and a citrus dressing brings a refreshing crunch to your plate, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Pico de Gallo: This fresh mix of tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice provides a lively zest that beautifully pairs with the richness of the empanadas.
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Margaritas: Sip on a classic margarita while enjoying your meal; the tangy lime flavor perfectly complements the savory filling.
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Chocolate Flan: For dessert, a slice of velvety chocolate flan offers a dreamy sweet layer after the savory notes of the empanadas.
Each of these pairings adds its unique flair, making your Air Fryer Empanadas Recipe a complete and satisfying meal!
Air Fryer Empanadas Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting twists on the classic recipe to personalize your Air Fryer Empanadas!
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Vegetarian: Swap ground beef for black beans or lentils. Add spices for depth, catering to plant-based appetites.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in diced jalapeños or chili flakes to the beef mixture! These will create an exciting pop of flavor for heat lovers.
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Cheesy Stuffed: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or feta. The gooeyness adds a delightful surprise as you bite into your empanada.
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Sweet Touch: Mix diced apples with cinnamon and sugar for a dessert version! Pair it with caramel sauce—an unexpected treat everyone will enjoy.
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Savory Greens: Stir in some chopped spinach or kale into the filling. Not only does it boost nutrition, but it adds color and texture.
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Crispy Crust: Use puff pastry instead of pie crust for an ultra-flaky, golden finish that elevates every bite to gourmet levels.
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Latin-Inspired: Incorporate traditional ingredients like sofrito or olives into your filling for a more robust flavor that pays homage to authentically Latin flavors.
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Breakfast Empanadas: Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and chorizo. Perfect for a hearty breakfast on the go or a brunch delight that will impress your friends!
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Empanadas
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Chill the Filling: Allow the beef filling to cool completely before filling the empanadas. This prevents soggy dough and helps maintain their crispy texture.
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Seal Properly: Ensure each empanada is sealed well with water and fork pressing. A good seal prevents leakage during cooking, keeping the flavors intact.
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Even Cooking: Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cooking in batches allows hot air to circulate well, producing perfectly crispy empanadas.
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Golden Finish: Brush the empanadas with egg wash generously for that irresistible golden-brown hue. This simple step elevates their presentation dramatically.
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Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to swap the ground beef for your favorite protein or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. The Air Fryer Empanadas Recipe is wonderfully versatile!
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Empanadas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the beef filling and dough up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply cook the ground beef, bell pepper, onion, taco seasoning, and beef broth as directed, and let it cool. Once cooled, refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container. You can also cut out the dough circles and store them layered between parchment paper in the fridge to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy a delicious meal, just fill the empanadas, brush with egg, and air fry for 5-7 minutes. They’ll be just as tasty, saving you time on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Empanadas
Room Temperature: Keep cooked empanadas at room temperature for up to 2 hours if serving warm, but avoid longer exposure to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked empanadas in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can last for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy frozen empanadas, no need to thaw! Just air fry at 350°F for about 7-10 minutes until hot and crispy.
Air Fryer Empanadas Recipe FAQs
What type of beef should I use for these empanadas?
Absolutely! For a healthier option, I recommend using lean ground beef, which provides great flavor while reducing excess fat. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter protein.
How should I store leftovers?
Very! To store leftover empanadas, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore their lovely crispiness!
Can I freeze cooked empanadas?
Yes! To freeze cooked empanadas, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent sticking. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, air fry directly from frozen at 350°F for about 7-10 minutes.
What if my empanadas are leaking during cooking?
If your empanadas leak while cooking, it’s typically due to them not being sealed properly. Ensure you use enough water to seal the edges before crimping with a fork. Additionally, make sure the filling is completely cooled before assembling the empanadas to avoid sogginess.
Are these empanadas suitable for children or those with allergies?
Absolutely! They’re quite versatile! If you’re catering to children or someone with allergies, you can adjust the filling ingredients to meet dietary needs—like using gluten-free pie crusts or replacing beef with beans or cheese for vegetarian options. Just ensure you check for any specific allergy triggers in the ingredients.
How do I ensure my empanadas come out perfectly golden?
For that perfect golden finish, brush each empanada generously with a whisked egg before air frying. This egg wash helps achieve an eye-catching color while also keeping the pastry moist and delicious. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Irresistibly Easy Air Fryer Empanadas Recipe You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium pan over medium heat, cook the ground beef, diced bell pepper, and onion. Sauté until the beef is browned and the onion turns transparent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and beef broth until everything is well combined. Then remove the pan from heat and allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes.
- Roll out the refrigerated pie crust on a non-stick surface. Using a 5-inch round bowl or cup, cut out three circles from one pie crust.
- Combine the leftover dough, rolling it out to match the thickness of the original crust. Cut a fourth circle. Repeat with the other pie crust until you have a total of 8 circles.
- Once the beef mixture is cooled, spoon 2-3 tablespoons onto each circle. Sprinkle with cheese. Fold the dough over in half and use a bit of water to seal the edges, crimping with a fork for a decorative finish.
- Whisk the egg and brush each empanada with it for a shiny, golden look. Place four empanadas at a time in a greased air fryer basket. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F for 5 minutes.
- Cook the empanadas at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy. Serve with your favorite dips like sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.
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