Oh my goodness, have you ever tried air fryer empanadas? They’re an absolute game-changer! I still remember the first time I made them. I was having friends over for game night, and I wanted to whip up something fun and delicious. I decided to give empanadas a shot in my air fryer, and let me tell you, they were a hit! The dough comes out perfectly crispy while the filling is savory and comforting. It’s like a little bite of happiness! Plus, they’re such a versatile snack; you can fill them with whatever you have on hand. Trust me, this air fryer empanadas recipe is going to become your go-to for a delicious snack that’s sure to impress. Get ready to savor every crispy, flavorful bite!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Empanadas Recipe Delicious Snack
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup butter, softened (make sure it’s nice and creamy for easy mixing)
- 1/4 cup water (I like to use ice-cold water for a flakier dough)
- 1 teaspoon salt (don’t skip this; it brings out all the flavors!)
- 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken (leftovers work great here!)
- 1/2 cup cheese, shredded (your favorite kind—mozzarella or cheddar are amazing!)
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped (this adds a lovely sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (for that warm, earthy flavor that makes a difference)
- 1 egg, beaten (this will be your golden egg wash for a beautiful finish)
How to Prepare Air Fryer Empanadas Recipe Delicious Snack
Alright, let’s get cooking! Making these air fryer empanadas is a fun and straightforward process. I promise you’ll be snacking happily in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by mixing the flour and salt in a large bowl. This is where the magic begins!
- Add the softened butter and ice-cold water. Use your hands to knead the mixture until it’s smooth and pliable. This dough is going to be the perfect home for your filling!
- Once it’s all combined, cover the dough with a cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This helps it become nice and stretchy.
- Meanwhile, in another bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, cheese, chopped onion, and cumin. This filling is packed with flavor!
- Now, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles.
- Place a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center of each circle. Don’t be shy—this is the good stuff!
- Fold the dough over and seal the edges tightly. You can use a fork to crimp them for a cute touch!
- Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg. This gives them that gorgeous golden finish.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Once it’s hot, arrange the empanadas in a single layer in the basket. You might need to do this in batches.
- Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until they’re beautifully golden brown and crispy!
And just like that, your air fryer empanadas are ready to be devoured! Enjoy them warm, maybe with a side of salsa or guacamole. Yum!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: You’ll have delicious air fryer empanadas ready in just about 42 minutes!
- Flavor-packed filling: The combination of chicken, cheese, and spices creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
- Healthier option: Air frying means you get that crispy texture without all the oil, making it a lighter snack.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite proteins or veggies, so you can make each batch unique!
- Kid-friendly: These are perfect for little hands, and they’re fun to dip in salsa or guacamole!
- Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the empanadas in advance and freeze them for a quick snack anytime!
- Perfect for gatherings: Whether it’s game night or a casual get-together, these empanadas are sure to impress your guests.
Tips for Success with Air Fryer Empanadas Recipe Delicious Snack
- Chill your dough: If your dough feels too warm or sticky, pop it in the fridge for about 15 minutes. This makes it easier to roll out and helps achieve that flaky texture.
- Don’t overstuff: It’s tempting to fill your empanadas to the brim, but overfilling can lead to messy leaks. Stick to a generous spoonful for the best results!
- Seal them well: Make sure to press the edges firmly to prevent them from opening up during cooking. A fork is great for crimping and adds a charming touch!
- Batch cooking: If you’re making a large batch, cook them in batches to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding the air fryer can lead to uneven crispiness.
- Check doneness: Keep an eye on your empanadas during the last few minutes of cooking. They can go from golden to overly brown quickly!
- Experiment with spices: Don’t be afraid to play around with spices and herbs in your filling. A pinch of paprika or some fresh cilantro can elevate the flavors!
- Serve with dipping options: Pair your empanadas with a variety of dips like salsa, guacamole, or even a zesty sour cream to take your snack to the next level!
Variations of Air Fryer Empanadas Recipe Delicious Snack
One of the best things about air fryer empanadas is how easily you can mix things up! Here are some fun variations to keep your snack game exciting:
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the chicken for a mix of black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers. Add some taco seasoning for a zesty kick!
- Spicy Beef: Use ground beef seasoned with chili powder, garlic, and a splash of hot sauce. This will bring some heat and flavor to your empanadas!
- Cheesy Spinach: Combine fresh spinach, ricotta, and feta cheese for a creamy, savory filling that’s perfect for cheese lovers!
- Sweet Treat: Try a dessert version by filling the dough with a mix of sweetened cream cheese and diced strawberries or apples. Dust with powdered sugar after cooking for a lovely finish!
- Herbed Chicken: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley with your chicken and cheese for a fresh, vibrant flavor that makes each bite pop!
- Different Doughs: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using whole wheat flour or even corn masa for a gluten-free option that adds a unique texture and taste.
Feel free to get creative! The possibilities are truly endless, so don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Your air fryer empanadas will never be boring!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got some leftovers? No problem! Storing your air fryer empanadas is super easy, and with the right techniques, you can keep them tasting just as delicious as when they were freshly cooked.
To store your empanadas, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. I like to layer them with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days—perfect for those quick snack cravings!
If you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze them! Just make sure they’re fully cooled, then wrap each empanada tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just pull out as many as you need and let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
Now, for reheating! The best way to bring back that crispy goodness is to pop them back in the air fryer. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and air fry for about 5-7 minutes until they’re heated through and nice and crispy again. Trust me, this method beats the microwave any day! If you’re in a pinch, you can use the microwave, but the texture won’t be as fabulous. Just heat them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, but keep an eye on them.
There you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, your air fryer empanadas will be a tasty treat whenever the mood strikes!
Nutritional Information
When you’re enjoying these air fryer empanadas, it’s nice to know what you’re putting into your body! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving (1 empanada):
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 4g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on common ingredients and can vary depending on the specific brands or variations you use. But no matter what, you’ll be treating yourself to a delicious snack that’s packed with flavor!
FAQ About Air Fryer Empanadas Recipe Delicious Snack
Can I use a different filling for my empanadas?
Absolutely! One of the best parts about this air fryer empanadas recipe is its versatility. You can use any filling you like—beef, pork, or even veggies! Just make sure to season your filling well for maximum flavor.
How do I know when my empanadas are done?
Keep an eye on them while they cook! Your empanadas are ready when they’re golden brown and crispy, typically around 10-12 minutes in the air fryer. If they’re looking a little pale, give them a few extra minutes. Trust me, the golden color means crispy goodness!
Can I make these empanadas ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the empanadas in advance and store them in the fridge for a day or two before cooking. If you want to make a big batch, consider freezing them before you cook. Just follow the storage tips I mentioned earlier!
What’s the best way to reheat leftover empanadas?
The best way to bring back that crispy texture is by using the air fryer again. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and air fry for about 5-7 minutes. This will keep them crunchy and delicious!
Can I use gluten-free flour for the dough?
Definitely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s suitable for baking, and you should be good to go! The texture may vary slightly, but they’ll still be tasty!
Air Fryer Empanadas Recipe: 7 Steps to a Delicious Snack
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 12 empanadas 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious air fryer empanadas made with a flavorful filling.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 egg, beaten for egg wash
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix flour and salt.
- Add butter and water. Knead until smooth.
- Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- In another bowl, combine chicken, cheese, onion, and cumin.
- Roll dough into circles and fill with the mixture.
- Fold and seal the edges.
- Brush with egg wash.
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Place empanadas in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
- Adjust filling to your taste.
- Try different proteins or vegetables.
- Serve with salsa or guacamole.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Latin American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 empanada
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: air fryer empanadas recipe delicious snack
