Air Fryer Beef Empanadas

Did you know that it is super easy to make Air Fryer Beef Empanadas right at home? Using yummy spices and your favorite filling you will love these delicious treats!

Air Fryer Beef Empanadas – A Little NYC Street Food Magic at Home

There’s something about the smell of fresh empanadas that takes me straight to the sidewalks of NYC, where the grannies post up with their trays of golden, flaky goodness. My husband, who’s Puerto Rican and considers himself an empanada expert (trust me, he’s earned the title), will stop mid-conversation to grab one. So when I decided to make these air fryer beef empanadas at home, I knew they had to live up to the street food legends. Crispy on the outside, juicy and flavorful on the inside—they’re our new family obsession.

Ingredients and Why They’re Non-Negotiable

Ground Beef – The heart of the filling, giving these empanadas their juicy, savory bite.
Onion – Adds a mellow sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
Garlic – Brings that warm, aromatic kick that makes every bite better.
Adobo Seasoning – The ultimate flavor base—savory, slightly tangy, and packed with seasoning power.
Dried Oregano – Balances the richness with a subtle, herby note.
Sazon (Optional) – Gives the filling a beautiful golden color and bold flavor that takes it to the next level.
Cilantro – Fresh, bright, and the perfect pop of green to cut through the richness.
Dough Discs – The crisp, flaky blanket that holds all that delicious filling together.

How to Make Air Fryer Beef Empanadas

Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and Adobo seasoning. Cook until the beef is browned, about 6-7 minutes, then drain the excess fat. Stir in garlic, oregano, optional sazon, and cilantro, cooking for another minute. If you want them extra gooey, add shredded cheese and let it melt right into the beef.

Place 3-4 tablespoons of filling (and cheese slice if you’re feeling indulgent) in the center of each dough disc. Fold over, press the edges with a fork to seal, and set aside. Preheat your air fryer to 370°F for three minutes. Spray the basket, place in a few empanadas, and cook for 7 minutes. Check for crispness—if you want them even crunchier, add another 2-3 minutes. Repeat until they’re all golden brown and ready to serve.

My Empanada Love Story

Living in NYC, it’s impossible not to fall in love with street empanadas. I’ve bought them from little old ladies outside the subway, on street corners, and at block parties. My husband—being Puerto Rican—has a sixth sense for finding the best ones. He’s picky, too, so when I made these at home and got a nod of approval (and then saw him go back for seconds and thirds), I knew I had something special. Now, we make these for everything from lazy Sundays to family parties, and they never last long.

FAQs About Air Fryer Beef Empanadas

Fun Places to Serve These Empanadas

Family game night, block parties, birthday gatherings, tailgates, Sunday dinners, or a quick weeknight meal when you want something comforting but easy.

I use just the right balance of seasonings so the beef is juicy and flavorful without being greasy, and the air fryer method means you get that street-vendor crisp without deep frying. Plus, these are taste-tested by a bona fide Puerto Rican empanada connoisseur, so you know they’re legit.

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