Empanadas, with their crispy golden crust and savory filling, are a beloved dish in many cultures. While traditionally deep-fried, using an air fryer offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor or texture. Let's explore how to make delicious air fryer beef empanadas that are crispy on the outside and packed with flavorful beef filling on the inside:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1 package of empanada dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:

   • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened.
   • Stir in the ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the tomato paste and beef broth, and simmer until the mixture is thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool.

2. Assemble the Empanadas:

   • Roll out the empanada dough on a lightly floured surface and cut out circles using a round cutter or a small bowl.
   • Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, then crimp the edges with a fork to seal.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer:

   • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.

4. Cook the Empanadas:

   • Place the assembled empanadas in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching.
   • Brush the tops of the empanadas with beaten egg for a golden finish.
   • Cook the empanadas in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Once cooked, remove the empanadas from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
   • Enjoy the delicious air fryer beef empanadas with your favorite dipping sauce or salsa.

Tips:

• You can customize the filling by adding ingredients like olives, raisins, or hard-boiled eggs for extra flavor.
• Store any leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat them in the air fryer for a quick and tasty snack.

With this easy air fryer beef empanadas recipe, you can enjoy the crispy goodness of this classic dish with a healthier twist. Perfect for a quick dinner, party appetizer, or anytime snack!

If you like this type of recipe, click HERE to find simple and delicious recipes that you can cook in an air fryer.

This blog post aims to provide a detailed yet concise guide on making flavorful air fryer beef empanadas. Would you like to add any additional tips or variations to this recipe?