Air fryer recipes have taken the culinary world by storm, and it’s no wonder why! They’re quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious. My air fryer empanadas recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it perfectly combines convenience with mouthwatering flavors. There’s something so satisfying about that golden, crispy exterior hiding a savory filling inside. Whenever I’m in the mood for a snack, these empanadas are my go-to. Plus, they’re adaptable! You can play around with different fillings based on what you have on hand, making them a fun and creative treat. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Empanadas Recipe

Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to make your delicious air fryer empanadas:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your dough, giving it that perfect texture.
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed: Cold butter is key for a flaky crust—don’t skip this!
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just enough to enhance the flavor.
• 1/4 cup cold water: Helps bring the dough together; keep it cold for best results.
• 1 cup cooked ground beef: The hearty filling that adds flavor and protein.
• 1/2 cup diced onions: For a touch of sweetness and depth in the filling.
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese: Adds creaminess and richness; choose your favorite type!
• 1 egg, beaten: This will be your egg wash for a beautiful golden finish.

How to Prepare Air Fryer Empanadas Recipe

Let’s dive into the fun part—making these delicious air fryer empanadas! It’s all about taking your time and enjoying the process. First, you’ll want to start with the dough. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and cold cubed butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial for that flaky texture!

Making the Dough

For the dough, keep your ingredients chilled! This helps create those lovely flaky layers. After combining the flour, salt, and butter until crumbly, slowly add the cold water. Knead just until the dough comes together, avoiding overworking it. Wrap it tightly and let it rest in the fridge for 30 minutes. This resting time allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out later.

Preparing the Filling

Now for the filling! In a skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onions until they’re soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add in your cooked ground beef and season as desired—think salt, pepper, or even a dash of cumin for a flavor boost! Mix in your shredded cheese until it’s melted and combined. Feel free to get creative here; you can toss in some diced bell peppers or olives if that’s your thing!

Assembling the Empanadas

Once your dough is ready, roll it out on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles, about 4 inches in diameter. Spoon a generous amount of the filling onto one half of each circle, but don’t overstuff—less is more! Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal. For a tighter seal, you can crimp the edges with a fork. This not only helps keep the filling in but also gives them a nice decorative touch!

Cooking in the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C)—this step is important for that crispy finish! Once it’s hot, place the empanadas in the basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for that gorgeous golden color. Cook for about 12-15 minutes until they’re beautifully browned and crispy. Keep an eye on them; every air fryer is a bit different, so you might need to adjust the time slightly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or sudden snack cravings!
• Easy cleanup, thanks to the air fryer; no messy frying oil to deal with.
• Flavor-packed filling with endless customization options to suit your taste.
• Crispy, golden empanadas that are sure to impress friends and family.
• Great for meal prep—make a batch ahead and enjoy them throughout the week!

Tips for Success

To ensure your air fryer empanadas turn out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips! First, don’t skip the chilling step for the dough—it’s essential for achieving that flaky texture. When sealing your empanadas, make sure the edges are completely sealed to prevent any filling from leaking during cooking. If you want extra-crispy empanadas, lightly spray them with cooking oil before air frying. Also, keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time; every air fryer is different, and you want them golden, not overcooked. Trust me, these little details make a big difference!

Variations on Air Fryer Empanadas Recipe

The beauty of empanadas is their versatility! You can easily switch up the fillings to suit your cravings or dietary needs. Try using shredded chicken or pulled pork for a different protein kick. For a vegetarian option, load them with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and feta cheese. Want to get adventurous? How about a sweet twist with a filling of apple and cinnamon or chocolate and banana? As for the dough, experiment with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or even gluten-free flour blends if needed. The sky’s the limit, so get creative and have fun!

Nutritional Information

These air fryer empanadas are not only delicious but also provide a satisfying snack option. Each empanada is estimated to contain about 200 calories, with 10g of fat, 6g of protein, and 25g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. They’re a tasty way to enjoy a treat without the guilt!

FAQ Section

Got questions about my air fryer empanadas recipe? I’ve got you covered! First off, how do I store leftover empanadas? Simply place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; they’re still tasty reheated in the air fryer. Can I use different fillings? Absolutely! Feel free to swap in cooked chicken, veggies, or even beans for a vegetarian option. What if I don’t have an air fryer? No worries! You can bake them in a regular oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes. Lastly, can I freeze empanadas? Yes! Just freeze them before cooking, and when you’re ready, cook them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time. Enjoy experimenting!

For more information on air frying techniques, check out this Healthline article on the benefits of air frying.

[tasty-recipe id=”13020″]