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Homemade Air Fryer Beef Empanadas photo

Air Fryer Beef Empanadas

These Air Fryer Beef Empanadas are a delightful snack! Crispy, savory, and packed with flavor, they're perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour plus more for the surface
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 cup cold butter cut into cubes
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

For the Filling:

  • 1 medium yellow onion chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup diced green chiles
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack
  • Egg wash for brushing
  • Freshly chopped cilantro for garnish
  • Sour cream for dipping

Instructions

Air Fryer Beef Empanadas: How It’s Done

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, kosher salt, and baking powder. Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add water, mixing until a dough forms. Don’t overwork it! Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  • While the dough chills, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned. Stir in the tomato paste, oregano, parsley, cumin, smoked paprika, and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Finally, mix in the chopped tomatoes and diced green chiles. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  • On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a small bowl to cut out circles of dough. Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each circle, followed by a sprinkle of shredded Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for an extra touch.
  • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the empanadas in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Brush the tops with egg wash for that beautiful golden color. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
  • Once cooked, remove the empanadas from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with sour cream for dipping. Enjoy your flavorful Air Fryer Beef Empanadas!

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Rolling Pin
  • Air Fryer
  • Baking Sheet
  • Pastry Brush

Notes

  • Chill the dough for better texture and ease of rolling.
  • Customize the filling with your favorite meats or vegetables.
  • Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.