Golden and crispy on the outside, these air fryer empanadas are a healthier twist on the classic recipe. Filled with savory beef, chicken, or your favorite veggies, these handheld treats are perfect for snacking, dinner, or even a party appetizer. By using the air fryer, you get that perfect crunch without the extra oil.
Ingredients:
- 1 package of empanada dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 lb ground beef (or your choice of filling: chicken, vegetables, etc.)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
Prepare the filling:
In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until softened. Season with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir in olives and hard-boiled eggs if using. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Fill the empanadas:
Roll out the empanada dough discs on a clean surface. Place about 1-2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each disc. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork to secure them tightly.
Preheat the air fryer:
Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes.
Egg wash:
Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush the top of each empanada with the egg wash. This will give them a golden finish when cooked.
Air fry the empanadas:
Place the empanadas in the air fryer basket in a single layer (you may need to do multiple batches). Cook for 8-10 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Serve:
Let the empanadas cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce, such as chimichurri or salsa!
Perfect for a quick meal or snack, these air fryer empanadas offer delicious flavor with less grease!