Oh my goodness, you have to try these air fryer beef empanadas – they’re my new obsession! I swear, I make them at least twice a week now because they’re just that easy and delicious. That perfect golden crust you get from the air fryer? Absolute magic. When I first tried this method, I couldn’t believe how much crispier they turned out compared to baking – like little pockets of joy with that satisfying crunch when you bite in.
What I love most is how quick they come together. Some nights when I’m totally exhausted but craving something homemade (and let’s be real – way better than takeout), this is my go-to. Just brown some beef with spices, stuff those handy dough discs, and let your air fryer do the heavy lifting. In about 12 minutes, you’ve got piping hot empanadas that taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this method, you’ll never go back to soggy baked empanadas again!
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Beef Empanadas
Let me tell you why these little crispy pockets of joy will become your new favorite:
- That perfect crunch: The air fryer gives you that golden, flaky crust we all crave – way crispier than baking!
- Quick and easy: From fridge to table in under 30 minutes? Yes please! Perfect for those “I need dinner NOW” nights.
- Minimal mess: No greasy stovetop splatters or oven cleanup – just pop them in the air fryer basket and you’re done.
- Endless possibilities: Switch up the fillings or dipping sauces to keep things exciting every time you make them.
Honestly, I’m addicted – and you will be too after your first bite!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Beef Empanadas
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to empanada heaven! Here’s what you’ll need for those crispy, golden pockets of deliciousness:
- 1 lb ground beef (I like 85/15 lean – enough fat for flavor but not too greasy)
- 1 small onion, diced nice and fine (trust me, big chunks make sealing tricky)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh garlic if you’re feeling fancy)
- 1 tsp cumin (this is the secret flavor booster!)
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika adds amazing depth if you have it)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to your taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly cracked is always best)
- 1 package empanada discs (look for Goya in the frozen aisle – they’re my go-to)
- 1 egg, beaten (for that gorgeous golden shine)
See? Simple pantry staples for maximum flavor payoff. Now let’s get cooking!
How to Make Air Fryer Beef Empanadas
Alright, let’s get down to business! Making these air fryer beef empanadas is easier than you think – just follow these simple steps and you’ll be snacking on crispy perfection in no time.
Preparing the Filling
First, grab your favorite skillet and brown that ground beef with the diced onions over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the beef loses its pink color and the onions turn translucent. Here’s my pro tip: drain any excess grease (we want flavor, not soggy dough!). Then sprinkle in all those gorgeous spices – garlic powder, cumin, paprika, salt and pepper. Give it a good stir and let it cook for another minute until your kitchen smells incredible. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly while you prep the dough.
Assembling the Empanadas
Now the fun part! Lay out your empanada discs on a clean surface. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of filling onto each one – don’t overstuff or they won’t seal properly. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together firmly. Here’s where I get fancy: use a fork to crimp the edges for that classic empanada look (and to make sure they stay sealed!). Brush each one with beaten egg – this gives them that beautiful golden shine we all love.
Air Frying to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F – this step is crucial for even cooking! Arrange the empanadas in a single layer in the basket (they need space to crisp up properly). Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re gloriously golden brown. That first bite through the crispy crust into the savory beef filling? Pure magic!
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Beef Empanadas
After making countless batches of these empanadas, I’ve picked up some tricks that make all the difference:
- Cool your filling first: Hot filling = soggy dough. Let it rest 10 minutes before stuffing those discs.
- Don’t overcrowd: Give each empanada some breathing room in the air fryer for maximum crispiness.
- Egg wash is magic: That golden color isn’t just pretty – it adds extra crunch!
- Seal tight: Press edges firmly and crimp with a fork to prevent filling explosions.
Follow these simple tips and you’ll get restaurant-quality results every single time!
Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Beef Empanadas
Oh, the dipping possibilities! These crispy empanadas shine with chimichurri sauce – my absolute favorite pairing. But don’t stop there! Try them with:
- Fresh salsa verde for a tangy kick
- Creamy avocado crema to cool the spices
- A simple side of cilantro-lime rice
- Crisp green salad to balance the richness
Honestly, they’re delicious plain too – I won’t judge if you eat them straight from the air fryer basket!
Storing and Reheating Air Fryer Beef Empanadas
Here’s the best part – these empanadas taste just as amazing the next day! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes. They’ll come out crispy and hot, just like fresh! Pro tip: freeze uncooked empanadas between parchment paper layers – then air fry straight from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutritional Information for Air Fryer Beef Empanadas
Each golden empanada packs about 180 calories with 10g protein – not bad for such a satisfying snack! Remember, these are estimates and will vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes. I always say – enjoy in moderation, but definitely enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
I get asked these questions all the time about my air fryer beef empanadas – here’s what you need to know:
Can I freeze these empanadas?
Absolutely! Freeze them before or after cooking. For uncooked, arrange on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to freezer bags. Cook frozen ones for 12-15 minutes. Already cooked? Just reheat frozen for 5-6 minutes.
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
You bet! Ground chicken works great – just add an extra pinch of spices since it’s milder. My mom even makes a killer version with shredded rotisserie chicken.
Why are my empanadas opening in the air fryer?
Probably didn’t seal tight enough or overfilled them. Press edges firmly and leave a 1/2-inch border. A little egg wash helps “glue” them shut too!
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Just use GF empanada discs (some brands make them) or even wonton wrappers work in a pinch.
3 Irresistible Air Fryer Beef Empanadas That Will Crave You More
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 12 empanadas
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
Crispy and flavorful beef empanadas made easily in your air fryer.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 package empanada dough discs
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Cook ground beef and onion in a pan until browned.
- Add garlic powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Let the beef mixture cool slightly.
- Place a spoonful of beef filling in the center of each empanada disc.
- Fold the dough over and seal the edges with a fork.
- Brush each empanada with beaten egg.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
- Air fry empanadas for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef for less grease.
- Let filling cool before sealing empanadas to prevent soggy dough.
- Serve with dipping sauce if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Latin American