Crispy Air Fryer Empanadas - Latin American Favorite
Crispy, golden air fryer empanadas filled with seasoned beef and vegetables. Authentic Latin American pastries with 75% less oil!
Instructions
- Step 1: In large skillet, cook ground beef until browned
- Step 2: Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper, cook until softened
- Step 3: Stir in tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper
- Step 4: Cook for 5 minutes until flavors blend
- Step 5: Add olives and chopped eggs if using
- Step 6: Let filling cool completely
- Step 7: Place empanada disc on clean surface
- Step 8: Add 2-3 tablespoons filling to center
- Step 9: Brush edges with water
- Step 10: Fold disc in half and press edges to seal
- Step 11: Crimp edges with fork for decoration and better seal
- Step 12: Repeat with remaining discs
- Step 13: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C)
- Step 14: Brush empanadas with beaten egg
- Step 15: Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray
- Step 16: Place empanadas in single layer
- Step 17: Cook for 10-12 minutes until golden brown
- Step 18: Serve hot with chimichurri or salsa
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Perfect Empanada Tips
- Cool filling completely: Prevents soggy dough
- Seal edges well: Use fork to crimp
- Don't overfill: Makes sealing difficult
- Egg wash: Creates beautiful golden color
- Work in batches: Don't overcrowd air fryer
Filling Variations
Chicken:
- Shredded chicken, peppers, onions
Cheese:
- Mozzarella, cream cheese, herbs
Spinach & Cheese:
- Spinach, ricotta, feta
Ham & Cheese:
- Diced ham and cheese
Vegetarian:
- Black beans, corn, peppers, cheese
Beef & Potato:
- Ground beef with diced potatoes
Tuna:
- Tuna, hard-boiled eggs, olives
Homemade Chimichurri Sauce
Blend together:
- 1 cup fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper
Make-Ahead Instructions
To Freeze:
- Assemble empanadas but don't cook
- Place on baking sheet, freeze until solid
- Transfer to freezer bags
- Store up to 3 months
- Cook from frozen, adding 5 minutes to cooking time
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as appetizer with variety of dipping sauces
- Main course with salad
- Party platter with different fillings
- Pack for lunch or picnics
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