You want to know how to cook empanadas in an air fryer. It’s a fantastic method that gives you a crispy, golden result with less oil and in less time than traditional frying or baking. This guide will walk you through every step, from choosing the right dough to perfecting the cooking time.
Air fryer empanadas are quick, convenient, and turn out incredibly well. Whether you’re using homemade fillings or store-bought shortcuts, the air fryer can handle it. Let’s get started on making your next batch.
How to Cook Empanadas in an Air Fryer
This section covers the core process. The key to success is preparing the empanadas correctly before they even go into the basket. A few simple steps ensure they cook evenly and don’t stick.
What You’ll Need
- Empanada dough discs (store-bought Goya discs or homemade)
- Your chosen filling, fully cooked and cooled
- A small bowl of water for sealing
- A fork for crimping edges
- Oil spray (like avocado or canola oil)
- Air fryer
- Parchment paper or air fryer liners (optional, but helpful)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: Make sure your filling is not warm. A cool or room-temperature filling prevents the dough from getting soggy and is easier to handle. Any meat should be fully cooked beforehand.
- Fill and Seal: Place a dough disc on a clean surface. Add 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of filling in the center, leaving a good border. Dip your finger in water and moisten the edge of half the circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together.
- Crimp the Edges: Use a fork to press down on the sealed edge. This creates a classic pattern and ensures a tight seal that won’t open during cooking. You can also use a special empanada press if you have one.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: It’s a good idea to preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. This helps start the cooking process immediately for a crispier exterior.
- Prepare for Cooking: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil or use a parchment liner. Arrange the empanadas in a single layer, making sure they do not touch. You may need to cook in batches. Lightly spray the tops of the empanadas with oil. This promotes browning.
- Cook: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 12 minutes. Check at the 8-minute mark. They are done when the pastry is golden brown and flaky. The time can vary based on the size and thickness of your empanadas.
- Cool and Serve: Let the empanadas cool for a few minutes before serving. The filling will be very hot inside. Serve with your favorite sauces like chimichurri, salsa, or sour cream.
Choosing the Right Dough
The type of dough you use makes a big difference. Store-bought dough discs are a huge time-saver and work great. Goya brand is widely available in freezer sections.
For a homemade touch, you can use a simple flour-based dough or even puff pastry. Puff pastry will give you a very flaky, buttery result. Just remember that different doughs may require slight adjustments in cooking time.
Filling Ideas and Tips
The filling possibilities are endless. Here are some classic and creative options:
- Beef Picadillo: Ground beef cooked with onions, garlic, raisins, olives, and spices.
- Chicken: Shredded chicken with corn, peppers, and a creamy sauce.
- Cheese and Onion: A simple mix of mozzarella or queso fresco and sautéed onions.
- Spinach and Cheese: A great vegetarian option with ricotta or feta.
- Ham and Cheese: A classic, kid-friendly filling using diced ham.
Important Tip: Always avoid overfilling. Too much filling can cause the empanada to burst open during cooking. It’s better to err on the side of less filling.
Why the Air Fryer Works So Well
Air fryers use rapid air circulation to cook food. For empanadas, this means the hot air quickly crisps the outside while sealing in the juices of the filling. You get a fried texture without submerging them in oil.
It also preheats much faster than a conventional oven. The compact space means the heat is focused directly on the food, leading to a shorter cook time and often a better texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using a Wet Filling: Excess moisture creates steam inside, leading to soggy dough or breaks. If your filling is juicy, drain it well or add a breadcrumb binder.
- Skipping the Preheating: While not always required, preheating helps achieve that instant crisp.
- Crowding the Basket: Empanadas need space for air to flow. If they are touching, they will steam instead of fry and won’t brown evenly.
- Not Sealing Properly: A poor seal is the main reason for leaks. Take your time with the water and fork crimp.
Adjusting Times and Temperatures
All air fryers are a little different. If your first batch isn’t brown enough, try increasing the temperature by 10 degrees next time. If they are browning too fast but the filling is cold, lower the temperature slightly and cook a bit longer.
Frozen, uncooked empanadas can also be cooked directly in the air fryer. You will need to add 3-5 extra minutes to the cooking time. No need to thaw them first.
Serving and Storing
Air fryer empanadas are best served fresh and warm. If you have leftovers, let them cool completely then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until hot and crispy again. The microwave will make them soft.
You can also freeze cooked empanadas. After cooling, place them on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in the air fryer at 375°F for 6-8 minutes.
Recipe: Simple Beef Air Fryer Empanadas
Here is a basic recipe to try for your first batch.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (10 count) Goya discos for baking (tapas para hornear), thawed
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash, optional)
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until soft. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Fill and seal the empanadas as described in the main steps above. For a deeper color, you can brush them with a beaten egg instead of using oil spray.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F. Arrange empanadas in basket and cook for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Cleaning Your Air Fryer Afterwards
After cooking empanadas, some oil or small bits of dough might be left in the basket. Always unplug the appliance and let it cool completely before cleaning.
Remove the basket and tray. Wash them with warm, soapy water. Most are dishwasher safe. Wipe the inside of the main unit with a damp cloth. Never submerge the main part of the air fryer in water.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I cook frozen pre-made empanadas in the air fryer?
Yes, you absolutely can. Place them frozen in the basket, spray with oil, and cook at 380°F for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check the package of the brand you buy, as times may vary slightly.
Do I need to flip empanadas in the air fryer?
It’s a good idea to flip them halfway through the cooking time. This ensures even browning on both sides, since most air fryers heat primarily from the top. Use tongs to carefully turn them over.
What’s the best temperature for air frying empanadas?
375°F (190°C) is the sweet spot for most empanada doughs. It’s hot enough to cook the pastry quickly and get it crispy, but not so hot that the outside burns before the filling is hot.
How do I prevent the dough from getting soggy?
The main culprits are a wet filling and overcrowding the basket. Ensure your filling is well-drained and cool. Also, make sure there is space between each empanada in the air fryer so steam can escape.
Can I use egg wash on air fryer empanadas?
You can, but a light spray of oil works just as well and is easier. An egg wash will give a slightly darker, shinier finish. If you use one, apply it lightly right before cooking.
Why did my empanadas burst open in the air fryer?
This usually happens from overfilling or not sealing the edges properly. Too much filling creates pressure as it heats. Also, if the edges aren’t sealed tight with the fork crimp, they can pop open during cooking.
Troubleshooting Guide
Problem: Pale, not golden.
Solution: Lightly spray more oil on the dough before cooking. Also, ensure your air fryer is preheated.
Problem: Dough is cooked but filling is cold.
Solution: Your filling was likely too cold or dense when you started. Let filling come closer to room temp before filling, or lower the temp to 360°F and cook a few minutes longer.
Problem: Bottom is soggy.
Solution: This can happen if the basket is overcrowded. Cook in smaller batches. Using a parchment liner with holes can also help improve airflow underneath.
Final Tips for Success
Practice makes perfect. Your first batch might not be flawless, but they will still taste good. The air fryer is a forgiving tool for cooking empanadas.
Experiment with different fillings to find your favorite. Once you master the basic technique, you’ll find yourself making them often. They are perfect for snacks, lunches, or party food.
Remember to always let them cool for a few minutes—the filling retains heat much longer than the crust. Enjoy your homemade, crispy empanadas made easy with the air fryer.