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Crispy Air Fryer Beef Empanadas Recipe with Zesty Chimichurri Sauce

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These crispy air fryer beef empanadas feature a golden, flaky crust with a juicy, seasoned beef filling, paired perfectly with a vibrant and tangy chimichurri sauce. A healthier, fuss-free alternative to traditional fried empanadas, ready in about 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 12 pre-made empanada discs or refrigerated pie dough rounds
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Cooking spray or a little oil for the air fryer basket
  • 1 cup fresh parsley leaves, packed
  • 3 tablespoons fresh oregano leaves (or 1 tbsp dried oregano)
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef Filling: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it starts to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
  2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion softens, roughly 3-4 minutes.
  3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to let the spices bloom.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in fresh cilantro if using. Set aside to cool slightly.
  5. Make the Chimichurri Sauce: In a food processor, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Pulse a few times, then slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending until smooth but still a bit textured.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate for flavors to meld.
  7. Assemble the Empanadas: Place a dough disc on a clean surface. Spoon about 2 tablespoons (30g) of the beef filling onto the center. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape.
  8. Press edges together gently, then crimp with a fork to seal completely. Repeat with remaining discs and filling.
  9. Brush each empanada with beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish.
  10. Air Fry the Empanadas: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  11. Place empanadas in a single layer, leaving space between them. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the crust is crisp and golden brown.
  12. Serve: Let empanadas cool for 3-4 minutes, then serve warm with the zesty chimichurri sauce on the side.

Notes

Do not overfill empanadas to avoid leaking. Use egg wash for a golden crust or olive oil as a vegan alternative. Preheat air fryer and flip empanadas halfway for even crisping. Let empanadas rest after cooking to set filling. Drain excess liquid from filling to prevent soggy crusts. Empanadas can be frozen before cooking and cooked from frozen with extra time.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer empanadas, beef empanadas, chimichurri sauce, crispy empanadas, quick dinner, appetizer, snack

Find it online: https://evabake.com/crispy-air-fryer-beef-empanadas-recipe-with-zesty-chimichurri-sauce-easy-guide/