Spicy Air Fryer Empanadas
Spicy Air Fryer Empanadas offer a crispy, golden crust filled with a delicious and flavorful spicy filling. Made with ground meat or vegetarian alternatives, seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and garlic, these empanadas bring the perfect amount of heat.Cooked in an air fryer, these empanadas are healthier than traditional fried versions, offering the same satisfying crunch without the extra oil.
Equipment
- Air Fryer – 1 unit
- Skillet or frying pan – 1 unit
- Rolling Pin (1 unit)
- Fork – 1 unit (for sealing empanadas)
- Pastry Brush (optional, for egg wash) – 1 unit
- Mixing Bowl (1 unit)
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: 1 set
Ingredients
For the Empanada Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup butter cold, cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup cold water plus extra as needed
For the Spicy Filling
- 1 lb ground meat beef, chicken, or pork or vegetarian substitute (black beans, lentils, or textured vegetable protein)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 2 fresh jalapeños chopped (or adjust to heat preference)
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese optional
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking
Optional for Egg Wash
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
Make the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cubed butter and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water and stir until the dough starts to come together. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth, about 5 minutes. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the Filling
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for 2 minutes until softened. Add the ground meat (or vegetarian substitute) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Add the diced bell peppers and jalapeños, cooking for another 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese, if using. Let the filling cool.
Assemble the Empanadas
- After the dough has rested, divide it into 12 small balls. Roll each ball into a 4-5 inch circle on a lightly floured surface.Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, and press the edges with a fork to seal.
Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease the basket with cooking spray or brush with oil.
Air Fry the Empanadas
- Place the empanadas in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between them. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden and crispy. If you prefer extra crispy empanadas, cook for 2-3 minutes longer.
Serve
- Let the empanadas cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
Notes
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour to make the dough.
- Adjust Spice Level: Add more or fewer jalapeños or chili powder to adjust the spice to your preference.
- Make-Ahead: You can assemble the empanadas in advance and freeze them uncooked. Simply air fry from frozen for about 12-15 minutes.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground meat with black beans, lentils, or any plant-based protein of your choice.