There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also fun to make and eat. As someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that combine simplicity with bold flavors. That’s why I fell in love with Air Fryer Taco Bombs—a recipe that’s as exciting to prepare as it is to devour. These little flavor-packed bites are perfect for game day, family dinners, or even as a quick snack when you’re craving something savory.
What makes this recipe stand out is its versatility. You can customize the fillings to suit your taste, and the air fryer does an incredible job of crisping up the exterior while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is a winner. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress anyone who tries it. Let’s dive into what you’ll need and how to make these irresistible taco bombs!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Ground beef: The star of the show, ground beef provides a hearty and savory base for the filling. Opt for lean ground beef (80/20) to keep the dish from becoming too greasy, but still juicy and flavorful.
Taco seasoning: This is where the magic happens. Taco seasoning adds that classic Mexican-inspired flavor with a blend of spices like chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. You can use store-bought or make your own for a fresher taste.
Refried beans: Creamy and rich, refried beans add a smooth texture and depth to the filling. They also help bind the mixture together, making it easier to shape into bombs.
Shredded cheese: Cheese is a must for any taco-inspired dish. Use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a gooey, melty center that’s utterly irresistible.
Biscuit dough: The biscuit dough acts as the outer shell, turning golden and crispy in the air fryer. It’s the perfect vessel to hold all the delicious fillings together.
Toppings (optional): Sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or chopped cilantro can be used to garnish and enhance the flavor of your taco bombs. These are optional but highly recommended for an extra layer of deliciousness.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 cup refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
- 1 can (16 oz) biscuit dough (8 biscuits)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, guacamole, cilantro
How to Make Air Fryer Taco Bombs
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease, then stir in the taco seasoning and refried beans. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through. Set the mixture aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Biscuit Dough
Open the can of biscuit dough and separate the biscuits. Flatten each biscuit with your hands or a rolling pin until they’re about ¼-inch thick. This will make it easier to wrap the filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Taco Bombs
Place a spoonful of the beef and bean mixture in the center of each flattened biscuit. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on top. Carefully fold the edges of the biscuit dough over the filling, pinching to seal and forming a ball. Make sure there are no gaps to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.
Step 4: Air Fry the Taco Bombs
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the taco bombs in the basket, leaving some space between each one to allow for even cooking. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the taco bombs are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two. Serve them with your favorite toppings like sour cream, salsa, or guacamole. Enjoy them while they’re warm and gooey!
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t overfill the biscuits: While it’s tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, overfilling can cause the dough to tear or the filling to leak out during cooking. Stick to about 1-2 tablespoons of filling per biscuit.
- Seal the edges well: Take your time to pinch and seal the edges of the biscuit dough. This ensures the filling stays inside and the bombs hold their shape.
- Customize the filling: Feel free to add other ingredients like diced onions, jalapeños, or black olives to the beef mixture for extra flavor.
- Use parchment paper: If you’re worried about sticking, place a small piece of parchment paper in the air fryer basket before adding the taco bombs.
- Double the recipe: These taco bombs are so good, they’ll disappear fast! Consider doubling the recipe if you’re serving a crowd.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or even shredded rotisserie chicken works well as a substitute for beef. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover taco bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or oven to maintain their crispiness.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the filling and assemble the taco bombs ahead of time, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
What other dipping sauces work well?
In addition to sour cream and salsa, try serving these with queso dip, ranch dressing, or a spicy chipotle mayo for a tasty twist.
Air Fryer Taco Bombs are a game-changer for anyone who loves tacos and crispy, handheld snacks. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and I promise you’ll be hooked!