Air Fryer Empanadas
Air fryer empanadas are a healthier take on the traditional Latin American pastry, offering a crispy, golden exterior with much less oil. Filled with your choice of savory or sweet fillings, these empanadas are quick and easy to make in the air fryer, making them a perfect snack or appetizer. Enjoy the convenience of air frying while preserving the authentic flavors and textures of these beloved pastries.
Ingredients
- 1 package of empanada dough discs or homemade dough
- 1 cup ground beef or your preferred filling: chicken, pork, or vegetarian options
- 1/4 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese optional
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Egg wash 1 egg beaten with a little water
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a skillet, cook ground beef (or your choice of filling) with chopped onions over medium heat. Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Let it cool slightly before using it to fill the empanadas.
- Assemble the Empanadas: Lay out your empanada dough discs on a flat surface. Spoon a tablespoon of the filling into the center of each disc, leaving space at the edges. Optionally, add a bit of shredded cheese on top of the filling.
- Seal the Empanadas: Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Use a fork to press the edges together and seal the empanada. Brush the top with egg wash for a golden finish.
- Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the empanadas in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the empanadas cool slightly before serving. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as salsa or guacamole.
Notes
- Dough: You can use homemade dough or pre-made empanada discs. For a healthier option, try whole wheat dough or puff pastry for a flakier texture.
- Fillings: These empanadas are highly versatile—feel free to experiment with fillings like black beans and sweet potato for a vegetarian version or shredded chicken with green chilies for a spicy kick.
- Storage: Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply air fry them at 350°F for 3-4 minutes. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
- Avoiding Soggy Dough: Make sure your filling isn't too wet, and let it cool before assembling the empanadas to avoid soggy dough.