Air Fryer Empanadas: A Complete Guide to Perfect Crispy Treats

Air fryer empanadas are empanadas cooked in an air fryer instead of being traditionally fried or baked. By using superheated air to cook the food, air fryers eliminate the need for large quantities of oil, resulting in healthier yet equally tasty empanadas.

Why should you try them? Here are a few reasons:

• They are crispy on the outside yet tender on the inside.
• They require significantly less oil than deep-frying.
• The air fryer method is faster than baking.
• Cleanup is a breeze—no greasy pans or ovens!

Whether you’re a seasoned empanada lover or trying them for the first time, using an air fryer makes preparing this savory treat effortless and enjoyable.

How Long to Cook Empanadas in an Air Fryer for Perfect Results

Cooking time depends on your air fryer and the size of your empanadas, but as a general guide:

• Fresh empanadas: Cook at 375°F for 8–10 minutes. Flip halfway through for even crispness.
• Frozen empanadas: Cook at 350°F for 12–15 minutes, ensuring they heat through thoroughly.

Always keep an eye on your empanadas during cooking—air fryer models can vary. For the perfect golden exterior, brush them lightly with egg wash before cooking.

Step-by-Step Air Fryer Empanadas Recipes You’ll Love

Classic Beef Empanadas

Ingredients:

• Ground beef
• Diced onion
• Minced garlic
• Paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper
• Empanada dough discs
• Egg wash

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F.
2. Cook the ground beef in a pan with onion, garlic, and spices until fully browned. Allow it to cool slightly.
3. Place a spoonful of beef filling in the center of each dough disc and fold it over to form a half-moon shape. Seal edges with a fork.
4. Brush the empanadas lightly with egg wash for a golden finish.
5. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden brown.

Cheesy Chicken Empanadas

Ingredients:

• Cooked, shredded chicken
• Cream cheese
• Shredded cheddar
• Salsa (optional)
• Empanada dough discs
• Egg wash

Instructions:

1. Combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar, and salsa in a bowl.
2. Spoon the mixture into the empanada dough discs and fold to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges.
3. Brush with egg wash for that golden crust.
4. Cook at 375°F in the air fryer for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Sweet Apple Cinnamon Empanadas

Ingredients:

• Diced apples
• Brown sugar
• Cinnamon
• Butter
• Empanada dough discs
• Powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook diced apples with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a pan until softened. Allow to cool.
2. Place the apple mixture in the center of each dough disc and seal as described above.
3. Air fry at 350°F for 10–12 minutes, checking for crispness.
4. Dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch, if desired.

These recipes are quick, delicious, and perfect for any occasion! Experiment with fillings to make your own unique air fryer empanadas.

How to Prepare Delicious Air Fryer Cheese Empanadas

Ingredients:

• 1 package of ready-to-use empanada dough discs (or homemade dough)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• 1 egg, beaten (for sealing)
• Cooking spray

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling

• Choose your favorite type of cheese or mix multiple kinds for a richer flavor. Shred or crumble the cheese if needed.

2. Stuff the Dough

• Place a dough disc on a flat surface and add about 1–2 tablespoons of cheese mixture in the center. Be careful not to overfill.

3. Seal the Empanadas

• Brush the edges of the dough with the beaten egg to help seal.
• Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape.
• Press the edges with a fork to seal tightly and create decorative ridges.

4. Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer

• Preheat the air fryer to 350°F for about 3 minutes. Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

5. Cook the Empanadas

• Place the sealed empanadas in the air fryer basket in a single layer without crowding.
• Air fry at 350°F for 8–10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip halfway through for even cooking.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Allow the empanadas to cool slightly before serving. Pair them with salsa, guacamole, or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Experiment with different cheese combinations and enjoy these gooey, crispy delights straight from your air fryer!

Creating Flavorful Air Fryer Chicken Empanadas at Home

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1/2 cup salsa or tomato sauce
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for added spice)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite blend)
• Empanada dough discs (store-bought or homemade)
• Olive oil spray

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Filling

• Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil.
• Sauté the onions until softened and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
• Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, followed by salsa, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken in the seasoning.
• Simmer the mixture for 5–7 minutes until the flavors meld together. Allow the filling to cool slightly before assembling the empanadas.

2. Fill and Seal the Empanadas

• Lay an empanada dough disc on a flat surface.
• Place 1–2 tablespoons of the chicken filling in the center, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
• Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, then press the edges together. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a secure seal.

3. Air Fry the Empanadas

• Preheat the air fryer to 350°F.
• Lightly spray the empanadas with olive oil on both sides.
• Arrange the empanadas in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding.
• Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

4. Serve and Enjoy

• Allow the empanadas to cool slightly before serving.
• Pair them with sour cream, salsa, or a spicy dipping sauce for a delicious accompaniment.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Empanadas

• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor.
• Add chopped cilantro or jalapeños to the filling for an extra kick.
• Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container and reheat in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.

Ideal Empanadas in Air Fryer Temperature Settings for Perfect Crispness

Achieving the perfect crispness for your empanadas is all about finding the right temperature and cooking time. Follow these steps to ensure flawless results every time:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer

• Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for 3–5 minutes. This ensures even cooking from the start.

2. Prepare the Empanadas

• Arrange the empanadas in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, leaving enough space between them for proper air circulation. Avoid overcrowding to ensure they cook evenly.

3. Cook the Empanadas

• Air fry the empanadas at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes. Check halfway through and gently flip them to ensure both sides become golden brown and crispy.

4. Adjust Time if Necessary

• Depending on the size and thickness of your empanadas, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.

5. Serve While Hot

• Once cooked to perfection, carefully remove the empanadas from the air fryer. Allow them to cool for a minute before serving for maximum crispness.

By following these steps, your air-fried empanadas will have that perfect golden, flaky finish without the excess oil!

Easy Air Fryer Empanadas with Tortillas: A Quick Hack

Want to simplify the empanada-making process? Using store-bought tortillas as the base for your empanadas is a game-changer. Not only does it save time, but it also ensures consistent results every time. Here’s how you can make these quick and delicious empanadas at home:

Ingredients

• Store-bought tortillas (small size works best)
• Your choice of filling (e.g., seasoned ground beef, shredded chicken, cheese, or vegetables)
• 1 beaten egg or a little oil for sealing the edges
• Optional toppings (salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling

• Cook or prepare your chosen filling ahead of time. Make sure it’s not overly moist to prevent the tortilla from becoming soggy.

2. Fill and Fold the Tortillas

• Place a small amount of filling in the center of a tortilla. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the empanada to break apart during cooking.
• Fold the tortilla in half and press the edges together gently.

3. Seal the Edges

• Use a fork to crimp the edges of the tortilla, ensuring a tight seal. If needed, lightly brush the edges with egg wash or oil to help them stick together.

4. Preheat and Arrange in the Air Fryer

• Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray and arrange the empanadas in a single layer without overlapping.

5. Cook and Flip

• Cook for 6-8 minutes, then carefully flip the empanadas and cook for another 4-6 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Remove the empanadas from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce or toppings for an extra burst of flavor!

This quick tortilla hack is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a hot, savory snack. It’s an easy way to enjoy the taste of homemade empanadas without spending hours in the kitchen!

Best Dough Options for Making Air Fryer Empanadas

The dough you choose can make or break your empanadas. For the best results, consider using:

• Homemade empanada dough for full control over flavor and texture (hint: add a touch of butter for flakiness).
• Premade empanada wrappers, found in the frozen aisle, for convenience.
• Pie crust for rich, buttery empanadas.
• Puff pastry if you want an extra-light and airy bite.

Savory and Sweet Filling Ideas for Air Fryer Empanadas

The sky’s the limit when it comes to empanada fillings. Get creative with these ideas:

• Savory: Ground beef with onions and spices, spinach and feta, or pepperoni with marinara and mozzarella.
• Sweet: Apple cinnamon, Nutella and banana, or strawberry jam with cream cheese.

Health Benefits of Cooking Empanadas in an Air Fryer

The air fryer drastically reduces the amount of oil needed for cooking, making empanadas healthier without sacrificing flavor. This method also:

• Lowers calorie intake.
• Reduces fat consumption.
• Preserves more nutrients compared to deep-frying.

It’s a guilt-free way to enjoy your favorite indulgence!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls for empanada success:

1. Overfilling the dough, which can cause leaks and uneven cooking.
2. Skipping the egg wash, which helps with crispness and golden coloring.
3. Overcrowding the basket, which blocks airflow and leads to soggy empanadas.
4. Not flipping halfway, resulting in unevenly cooked pastries.

Air Fryer Empanadas vs. Traditional Fried and Baked Versions

Each method offers its own unique taste and texture, so choosing your preferred style depends on your priorities—whether it’s health, convenience, or flavor.

Cleaning and Maintaining Your Air Fryer After Cooking Empanadas

After enjoying your empanadas, make sure to clean your air fryer properly:

1. Allow it to cool completely.
2. Remove the basket and wash it with warm, soapy water.
3. Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth.
4. Avoid abrasive materials that could damage the nonstick coating.

Conclusion

Air fryer empanadas prove that delicious food doesn’t have to take hours to prepare or compromise on health benefits. With their crispy texture, customizable filling options, and ease of preparation, they make a versatile addition to any meal or occasion. By following the tips and steps in this guide, you’re well on your way to whipping up amazing homemade empanadas that everyone will love. The simplicity, flavor, and convenience of air fryer empanadas make them a must-try dish for both novice and experienced cooks alike. Happy cooking!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen empanadas in an air fryer?

Yes, you can air fry frozen empanadas. Simply preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook the frozen empanadas for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and heated thoroughly.

2. What is the best dough to use for empanadas in an air fryer?

You can use store-bought empanada dough or make your own at home. For a crispy texture, ensure the dough is rolled thin and all edges are sealed tightly to prevent leaking during cooking.

3. Do I need to preheat the air fryer before cooking empanadas?

While not always necessary, preheating the air fryer ensures even cooking and can help achieve a crispier crust. Check your air fryer’s manual for specific recommendations.

4. Can I reheat empanadas in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Reheat empanadas in the air fryer at 325°F (160°C) for 5-8 minutes. This will restore their crispiness without making them soggy.

5. Are air fryer empanadas healthier than deep-fried ones?

Yes, air fryer empanadas typically use little to no oil, which significantly reduces their fat and calorie content compared to traditional deep-fried empanadas.