Air Fryer Empanadas

Every time I think of comfort food, Air Fryer Empanadas come to mind. Growing up, my family made these delightful little pockets of goodness, filled with everything from savory meats to delicious vegetables. The best part? The crispy, flaky exterior paired with the warmth of the filling that just melts in your mouth. Whether it was a family gathering or a casual weeknight dinner, these empanadas always brought smiles to our faces. With the convenience of the air fryer, making Air Fryer Empanadas has never been easier or more enjoyable. I love how they come out perfectly golden and crispy, and the aroma that fills the kitchen is just heavenly. Let’s dive into the magic of these empanadas and create some wonderful memories together!

What to Gather for Air Fryer Empanadas

The ingredients for these Air Fryer Empanadas come together beautifully to create a delicious bite-sized treat. Each ingredient plays an important role, from the flaky crust to the flavorful filling. The combination of spices and fresh vegetables enhances the flavor profile, making every bite a delightful experience.

• 4 ounces diced potato: Adds a creamy texture and heartiness to the filling.
• ½ pound lean ground beef: The main protein source that gives the empanadas their rich flavor.
• ⅓ cup yellow onion, minced: Provides a sweet and savory base flavor.
• ½ red bell pepper, finely diced: Adds a pop of color and sweetness.
• ⅓ cup frozen peas: Offers a burst of freshness and texture.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the filling with aromatic richness.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
• ½ teaspoon pepper: Adds a mild heat.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings a smoky depth to the filling.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness.
• 1 teaspoon oregano: Gives a hint of herbaceousness.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Introduces a subtle kick.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Thickens the filling and adds a tangy flavor.
• ¼ cup beef broth: Keeps the filling moist and flavorful.
• 2 premade pie crusts: Forms the delightful shell of the empanadas.
• 2 egg whites: Used for the egg wash to achieve a golden finish.
• 2 tablespoons water: Helps in making the egg wash.

Instructions for Air Fryer Empanadas

Cooking Air Fryer Empanadas is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of these delightful treats.

1. Start by boiling 4 ounces of diced potato until they are fork-tender. This usually takes about 10 to 12 minutes. Don’t forget to drain them well and set aside for later.
2. In a large frying pan, heat it over medium heat and add ½ pound of lean ground beef and ⅓ cup of minced yellow onion. Cook until the beef is browned throughout, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
3. Once the beef is browned, add in ½ of a finely diced red bell pepper and ⅓ cup of frozen peas. Sauté everything together for about 5 to 7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and vibrant in color.
4. Now it’s time to season the filling. Add in 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of pepper, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of oregano, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. Mix well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed.
5. Next, stir in the cooked potatoes, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, and ¼ cup of beef broth. Cook this mixture until everything is heated through and the liquid has reduced slightly. Remove the filling from heat and let it cool a bit.
6. Roll out 2 premade pie crusts on a clean surface. Use a cookie cutter or a large enough rim to cut out circles about 4 inches in diameter. Gather any scraps, roll them out, and repeat until you have at least 10 circles.
7. Now, let’s prepare the egg wash. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 egg whites and 2 tablespoons of water until well combined.
8. Place one of the dough circles on your work surface and add about two tablespoons of the filling into the center. Brush the edge of one side of the dough with a little egg wash to help seal it.
9. Carefully fold the dough over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Use a fork to crimp the edges together, ensuring they are well sealed. Repeat this process with the remaining dough and filling.
10. Once done, brush each empanada with the egg wash and preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Air fry the empanadas for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. Keep space between each empanada to allow for proper air circulation.

Customization Ideas

Customization is key when it comes to Air Fryer Empanadas. You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your tastes or what you have available in your kitchen.

• Experiment with Fillings: Try other proteins like shredded chicken or even beans for a vegetarian option. The possibilities are endless!
• Add Cheese: Incorporate your favorite cheese into the filling for a richer flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick in the filling.
• Herbs & Spices: Feel free to play with different herbs and spices to match your personal preferences.
• Vegetable Variations: Throw in some chopped spinach or corn for added nutrition and flavor.
• Different Dough: If you’re feeling adventurous, try a different type of dough like puff pastry for a flakier texture.
• Sweet Treats: For dessert, fill your empanadas with sweet fillings like chocolate or fruit preserves and serve with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Accompaniments for Air Fryer Empanadas

• Fresh Salad: A light garden salad or a simple arugula salad pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the empanadas.
• Salsa: Serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping, enhancing the flavors.
• Rice Dishes: Consider serving them alongside a side of Mexican rice or even a quinoa salad for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Lunch: These empanadas make a great option for lunchboxes or picnics; they taste delicious cold or reheated.
• Game Day Snacks: Great as finger food for watching sports or entertaining guests.
• Seasonal Pairings: Serve with seasonal roasted vegetables for a comforting autumn meal.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze them for up to a month.

FAQ

Conclusion

Air Fryer Empanadas are a delightful way to enjoy a comforting and versatile meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With the crispy exterior and savory filling, they deliver flavors that everyone will love. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share it with your family and friends. You might just find that it becomes a new favorite in your household!

Air Fryer Empanadas

The ultimate comfort food, Air Fryer Empanadas deliver crispy perfection with a savory filling that tantalizes your taste buds. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, these empanadas are perfect for any occasion. Make them for an easy weeknight dinner or serve them at your next gathering!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 10 empanadas

Calories 290 kcal

Equipment

• Air Fryer

Ingredients

  

• 4 ounces diced potato
• ½ pound lean ground beef
• ⅓ cup yellow onion minced
• ½ red bell pepper finely diced
• ⅓ cup frozen peas
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• ¼ cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons water

Instructions

 

• Start by boiling 4 ounces of diced potato until they are fork-tender. This usually takes about 10 to 12 minutes. Don’t forget to drain them well and set aside for later.
• In a large frying pan, heat it over medium heat and add ½ pound of lean ground beef and ⅓ cup of minced yellow onion. Cook until the beef is browned throughout, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
• Once the beef is browned, add in ½ of a finely diced red bell pepper and ⅓ cup of frozen peas. Sauté everything together for about 5 to 7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and vibrant in color.
• Now it’s time to season the filling. Add in 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of pepper, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of oregano, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. Mix well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed.
• Next, stir in the cooked potatoes, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, and ¼ cup of beef broth. Cook this mixture until everything is heated through and the liquid has reduced slightly. Remove the filling from heat and let it cool a bit.
• Roll out 2 premade pie crusts on a clean surface. Use a cookie cutter or a large enough rim to cut out circles about 4 inches in diameter. Gather any scraps, roll them out, and repeat until you have at least 10 circles.
• Now, let’s prepare the egg wash. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 egg whites and 2 tablespoons of water until well combined.
• Place one of the dough circles on your work surface and add about two tablespoons of the filling into the center. Brush the edge of one side of the dough with a little egg wash to help seal it.
• Carefully fold the dough over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Use a fork to crimp the edges together, ensuring they are well sealed. Repeat this process with the remaining dough and filling.
• Once done, brush each empanada with the egg wash and preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Air fry the empanadas for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. Keep space between each empanada to allow for proper air circulation.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: These empanadas can be frozen before cooking for up to a month. Just pop them in the air fryer straight from the freezer!
• Pairing: Serve with fresh salsa or guacamole for dipping.
• Variations: Get creative with the fillings, using your favorite proteins or veggies.
• Serving: They make a great snack or meal for both lunch and dinner.

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