Air Fryer Empanadas Taste Like Taco Bell

By: Maria
Posted: 11/19/2025

Oh, you guys, I am so, so excited to share this recipe with you today. It’s one of those things that feels like a total cheat code for deliciousness, especially when you’re running around like a headless chicken trying to get dinner on the table. I’m talking about my Air Fryer Empanadas, and trust me, they are a game-changer. You know how sometimes you get that craving for something savory, maybe a little bit salty, perfectly crisp, and just… satisfying? This hits all those notes and then some. They remind me a bit of those amazing little hand pies you can get at bakeries, but honestly, making them at home is so much easier and way more fun. Plus, the air fryer gives them this incredible golden crunch that you just can’t beat. My kids practically inhale these, and I can’t say I blame them!

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What are air fryer empanadas?

So, what exactly are we talking about when we say Air Fryer Empanadas? Think of them as little pockets of joy, filled with all sorts of deliciousness and encased in a flaky, golden pastry. Traditionally, empanadas are baked or fried pastries, often filled with savory ingredients like spiced meats, cheese, or vegetables. The name itself comes from the Spanish word “empanar,” which means to enclose or coat in bread. My version takes that classic concept and gives it a modern, speedy twist using the magic of the air fryer. It’s essentially a much quicker and often healthier way to achieve that perfectly crispy exterior without all the fuss of deep frying. It’s like a cozy hug in a crispy package, and that’s exactly why I’ve fallen so head-over-heels for them. They’re the kind of food that feels special but is deceptively simple to whip up.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Honestly, the list of reasons I adore these Air Fryer Empanadas is pretty long, but I’ll try to give you the highlights! First off, the flavor is just out of this world. The pastry gets beautifully golden and has that satisfying crunch, while the filling is seasoned to perfection. Whether you go savory with a seasoned beef or chicken, or sweet with a fruit filling, the combination is always a winner. Secondly, and this is a big one for me, the simplicity is incredible. You can use store-bought dough, which shaves off a ton of time, and the air fryer does most of the heavy lifting. They’re so much easier than traditional empanadas or even many other baked goods, making them a lifesaver on busy weeknights or when unexpected guests pop over. They’re also surprisingly cost-effective – you can make a big batch without breaking the bank, which is always a plus in my book. And let’s not forget the sheer versatility! You can customize the fillings to your heart’s content, making them perfect for breakfast, lunch, a snack, or even dessert. Seriously, I’ve tried sweet fillings like apple cinnamon and dulce de leche, and savory ones with everything from cheesy potato to seasoned lentils. They’re just a dream. What I love most about these Air Fryer Empanadas is that they deliver maximum flavor and satisfaction with minimal effort, and that’s a rare and wonderful thing in the kitchen!

How do I make air fryer empanadas?

Quick Overview

Making these golden wonders is a breeze. You’ll basically be preparing your filling (or using a pre-made one!), assembling your empanadas using pre-made dough or your favorite pastry, and then letting the air fryer do its magic to crisp them up to golden perfection. The whole process is designed to be quick and fuss-free, so you can enjoy these delicious treats in under an hour. It’s the perfect way to get that homemade taste without spending hours in the kitchen. The air fryer just gives them this amazing, even crispness all around.

Ingredients

For the Pastry: A Recipe for a Healthy Pastry.
This is where you can really save time! I often reach for store-bought puff pastry sheets or even pre-made empanada discs. Look for good quality ones; they make a huge difference in the final texture. If you’re feeling ambitious and want to make your own dough from scratch, that’s fantastic too, but honestly, the store-bought stuff is my secret weapon for speed and convenience. Just make sure it’s thawed properly if it’s frozen!

For a Basic Savory Filling (e.g., Ground Beef):
* 1 lb ground beef or turkey
* 1 small onion, finely chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tsp cumin
* 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
* Salt and black pepper to taste
* (Optional) 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper or peas
* (Optional) 1 tbsp tomato paste
* 1 tbsp olive oil

For a Basic Sweet Filling (e.g., Apple Cinnamon):
* 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced small
* 2 tbsp brown sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
* 1 tsp cinnamon
* 1/4 tsp nutmeg
* 1 tsp lemon juice
* 1 tbsp butter

★★★★★

“Made the Air Fryer Empanadas Taste Like Taco Bell tonight and wow — perfect weeknight dinner. Will definitely make again!”

NOAH

For the Egg Wash (for that gorgeous golden sheen):
* 1 egg
* 1 tbsp milk or water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

First things first, let’s get that air fryer ready! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that when your empanadas go in, they start cooking and crisping up immediately. While it’s preheating, grab your air fryer basket and, if you have parchment paper liners specifically for air fryers, line one. If not, you can lightly grease the basket or use a bit of cooking spray. Don’t overcrowd the basket; you want them to have space to get nice and crispy. You’ll likely need to do this in batches. Trust me, it’s worth it!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients (for savory filling)

If you’re making a savory filling like the ground beef one, this is where we build flavor. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. If you’re using tomato paste or veggies, add them now and cook for another minute or two until everything is fragrant and well combined. If you’re going for a sweeter filling, you’ll sauté your diced apples with butter, sugar, and spices until tender.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients (for egg wash)

This step is super simple but makes a big difference in how your empanadas look. In a small bowl, whisk together one egg with about a tablespoon of milk or water. This mixture, our egg wash, will be brushed onto the empanadas before they go into the air fryer. It’s what gives them that beautiful, deep golden-brown color and a slightly shiny finish that just looks irresistible. It’s like giving them a little spa treatment before their hot bath!

Step 4: Prepare Filling

Once your savory filling is cooked and slightly cooled, or your sweet apple mixture is ready, it’s time to get them ready for stuffing. For the savory filling, make sure it’s not too wet, as excess moisture can make the pastry soggy. If it seems a little loose, you can stir in a tablespoon of breadcrumbs or cornstarch. For the apple filling, ensure the apples are diced small enough to fit comfortably inside the empanada. Let both fillings cool down a bit before you start assembling, so they don’t melt the pastry prematurely.

Step 5: Assemble the Empanadas

Now for the fun part: making the actual empanadas! If you’re using puff pastry, unroll it and cut out circles using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass (around 5-6 inches in diameter works well). If you bought empanada discs, you’re already ahead! Place a generous spoonful of your cooled filling onto one half of each pastry circle, leaving a small border around the edge. Don’t overfill them, or they’ll be hard to seal and might burst. Dip your finger in water and moisten the edge of the pastry, then fold the other half over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for an extra secure seal and a pretty, decorative look. I always like to press with a fork – it feels more authentic and I’ve learned that a good seal is crucial to prevent filling leakage!

Step 6: Brush and Vent

Once your empanadas are assembled and sealed, carefully place them on a plate or tray. Now, take your egg wash mixture and gently brush the tops of each empanada. This is what gives them that lovely golden color. Make sure to get an even coat. Then, using a sharp knife, make a small slit or two on the top of each empanada. This allows steam to escape while they’re cooking, preventing them from puffing up too much or bursting. It’s a small step but it really helps them bake evenly.

Step 7: Bake

Carefully place 2-3 assembled empanadas into your preheated air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t touching each other. You don’t want them steaming in the basket; they need air circulation to get crispy! Air fry for 10-14 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and puffed up. The exact time will depend on your air fryer model and the size of your empanadas, so keep an eye on them. You’re looking for that perfect golden hue and a crisp exterior. If doing batches, you can keep the cooked ones warm in a low oven (around 200°F/95°C) while you finish the rest.

Step 8: Cool and Glaze (Optional for sweet)

Once they’re done, carefully remove the empanadas from the air fryer and place them on a wire rack to cool slightly. For savory empanadas, this is pretty much the end of the line before serving. If you’ve made sweet empanadas and want an extra touch of sweetness and shine, this is when you can add a glaze. A simple powdered sugar glaze (powdered sugar mixed with a little milk or lemon juice) drizzled over the warm empanadas is divine. Or, for an even simpler touch, you could dust them with a little powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar once they’ve cooled a bit.

★★★★★

“New family favorite! This Air Fryer Empanadas Taste Like Taco Bell was so flavorful and ridiculously easy. Crowd-pleaser for sure.”

SOFIA

Step 9: Slice and Serve

And there you have it! Beautiful, golden, crispy Air Fryer Empanadas ready to be devoured. They are best served warm, right out of the air fryer, when the pastry is at its crispiest and the filling is perfectly melty. You can cut them in half to show off the delicious filling inside. For savory ones, a dollop of sour cream or a side of salsa is fantastic. For sweet ones, a scoop of ice cream is pure heaven. Enjoy the fruits of your (minimal) labor!

What to Serve It With

These Air Fryer Empanadas are so versatile, they can genuinely fit into almost any meal or occasion. For breakfast, I love serving them with a simple cup of strong coffee. The slightly sweet or savory filling pairs wonderfully with that morning jolt. They’re also great alongside scrambled eggs if you want a more substantial start to your day. For brunch, they feel a little more elegant, especially if you opt for a more refined filling like shredded chicken with herbs or a sweet berry medley. I like to arrange them nicely on a platter with a few fresh berries or a sprig of mint for a pop of color. As a dessert, especially the sweet varieties, they’re perfect on their own, maybe with a dusting of powdered sugar or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm, spiced apple filling with cold ice cream is a match made in heaven! And for cozy snacks, these are my absolute go-to. They’re perfect for movie nights or just a comforting treat when you need a little pick-me-up. My family loves them with a side of mild salsa or even just on their own. One of my favorite traditions is making a big batch for road trips; they travel so well and are way more satisfying than any pre-packaged snack!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Air Fryer Empanadas

Over the years, I’ve definitely learned a thing or two about making these Air Fryer Empanadas absolutely perfect, and I’m happy to share my little secrets with you! First, regarding the filling preparation, especially for savory ones, remember that moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Make sure your fillings are well-drained and not too saucy. If you’re using cooked meats or vegetables, give them a good drain. For sweet fillings, cooking them down slightly will also help reduce excess liquid. When it comes to mixing your ingredients, whether it’s for the filling or the dough (if you’re making your own), avoid overmixing. Overmixing puff pastry can develop the gluten too much, making it tough, and overmixing a filling can make it mushy. Aim for just combined. For that beautiful swirl effect some people love, or just general visual appeal, don’t be afraid to experiment with your crimping technique! A simple fork crimp is easy and effective, but you can also try different patterns with your fork or even a knife. It’s all about making them look as good as they taste. If you’re tempted by ingredient swaps, I’ve got you covered. For the pastry, if you can’t find puff pastry, a good quality pie crust dough also works, though the texture will be a bit different – more tender and less flaky. For the filling, if you don’t eat beef, ground turkey or chicken are excellent substitutes. For a vegetarian option, finely chopped mushrooms and lentils seasoned well are fantastic. I even tested a version with black beans and corn, which was a huge hit! When it comes to baking, always keep an eye on your empanadas, as air fryer temperatures can vary. If yours tend to cook very quickly, you might want to lower the temperature slightly or reduce the cooking time. Also, make sure not to overcrowd the basket! This is perhaps the most crucial tip for achieving that perfect crispiness. Leave space between them so the hot air can circulate freely. And finally, for glaze variations, don’t feel limited to just sweet glazes. A light drizzle of a spicy honey or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on savory empanadas can add an unexpected but delicious twist!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Knowing how to store and reheat these beauties is key to enjoying them later. If you have any leftovers (which, let’s be honest, doesn’t happen often in my house!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day, as long as your kitchen isn’t too warm. They’ll still be pretty good, though slightly less crisp. For longer storage, pop them into the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh in an airtight container for about 3-4 days. Just be aware that the pastry might lose some of its crispness in the fridge. If you’ve made a huge batch and want to freeze them, this is totally doable! Let the baked empanadas cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, the best method is actually back in the air fryer! Reheat frozen empanadas at around 350°F (175°C) for about 8-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can reheat them in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. For refrigerator-stored empanadas, you can reheat them in the air fryer or oven for just a few minutes until warmed and crispy again. As for glaze timing, if you’re storing sweet empanadas, it’s best to add the glaze *after* reheating, right before serving, to prevent it from becoming sticky or melting too much during storage and reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Making gluten-free empanadas is definitely possible. You can use a gluten-free puff pastry dough if you can find it, or a good quality gluten-free pie crust dough. The key is to work with it gently, as gluten-free doughs can sometimes be more fragile. For the filling, most savory and sweet fillings are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check your ingredients like spices or any pre-made sauces you might use. The baking time might be slightly different, so keep an eye on them for that perfect golden color. They might not get quite as flaky as traditional puff pastry, but they’ll still be delicious!

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

This recipe doesn’t actually use zucchini, but if you’re thinking of another empanada recipe that does! For recipes that *do* use zucchini, whether you peel it or not often depends on your preference and the zucchini itself. If the skin is thin and tender, you can often leave it on for added nutrients and color. However, if the skin is thick or tough, or if you want a smoother texture and a lighter color, peeling it is a good idea. For any vegetable filling, the most important thing is to ensure it’s cooked down and any excess moisture is removed before filling your empanadas to avoid a soggy crust.

Can I make this as muffins instead?

While empanadas are typically folded pockets, you *can* adapt the concept to a muffin format, especially for sweet fillings! You’d essentially be making a sweet cake or muffin batter and swirling in your fruit filling (like the apple cinnamon). You wouldn’t be creating a pastry crust pocket, but rather a baked good with the flavor profile. Bake them in muffin tins according to your muffin recipe’s instructions. It’s a different kind of treat, but it can be delicious! If you’re thinking of savory fillings, it’s less common to turn them into muffins, but perhaps a savory scone or biscuit with your filling mixed in could work.

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

Adjusting sweetness is super easy! For sweet fillings, start with the amount of sugar suggested and taste your filling. You can always add a little more brown sugar or even a touch of honey or maple syrup if you prefer it sweeter. Conversely, if you find it too sweet, you can balance it with a bit more lemon juice or a pinch of salt. For savory fillings, sweetness is less of a concern, but if you find your onions or other aromatics are making it a tad too sweet, a splash of vinegar or a little bit of chili can help cut through it.

What can I use instead of the glaze?

Oh, there are so many wonderful alternatives to a traditional glaze! For sweet empanadas, a simple dusting of powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar is lovely and very easy. You could also drizzle them with melted chocolate, caramel sauce, or even a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream (my personal favorite!). For savory empanadas, a light brush of melted butter after they come out of the air fryer can add a nice sheen, or you could sprinkle them with some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. A side of salsa, sour cream, or your favorite dipping sauce is also a fantastic accompaniment.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my absolute favorite way to make Air Fryer Empanadas! I really hope you give these a try. They’re more than just a recipe; they’re a solution for busy days, a way to impress guests without breaking a sweat, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike. The combination of that perfectly crisp, golden pastry and a flavorful filling is just irresistible, and the convenience of the air fryer makes it all so achievable. If you love these, you might also enjoy my Easy Cheesy Quesadillas or my One-Pan Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken – they’re all about maximum flavor with minimum fuss! I can’t wait to hear what you think! Please let me know in the comments how yours turn out, what fillings you tried, and any fun twists you added. Your feedback means the world to me!