Can I make Air Fryer Smoky Paprika Beef Empanadas ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients and seasoning ahead, but air fry close to serving for the best texture.

How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?

Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.

Can I adjust the seasoning?

Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.

Air Fryer Smoky Paprika Beef Empanadas

Name: Air Fryer Smoky Paprika Beef Empanadas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 pound ground beef; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/4 teaspoon chili powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1/4 cup beef broth or water; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional); 8 ready-made empanada dough discs or pie crust cut into 4-5 inch circles; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

By AirFryFeast Editorial TeamPublished May 10, 2026 | Updated Jun 19, 2026

Enjoy crispy, smoky paprika beef empanadas made effortlessly in the air fryer. A perfect snack with bold Latin American flavors ready in under 30 minutes.

Start cooking

Air fryerLatin AmericanEasyAir Fryer Friendly

Prep Time15 mins

Cook Time15 mins

Total Time30 mins

Servings4

Temperature370°F / 190°C

Ingredients

Servings4

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 pound ground beef
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/4 cup beef broth or water
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
8 ready-made empanada dough discs or pie crust cut into 4-5 inch circles
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Increase heat to medium-high. Add ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
Stir in smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the beef evenly.
Add tomato paste and beef broth. Stir and simmer for 2-3 minutes until mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and mix in chopped cilantro if using. Let filling cool slightly.
Place an empanada dough disc on a clean surface. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of beef filling into the center.
Brush edges of the dough with beaten egg. Fold dough over filling to form a half-moon shape. Press edges with a fork to seal tightly.
Repeat with remaining dough and filling.
Lightly brush the tops of each empanada with egg wash for a golden, crispy finish.
Arrange empanadas in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping. Cook in batches if needed.
Air fry at 370°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.
Remove empanadas carefully and cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve warm and enjoy these smoky, crispy beef empanadas as a delicious snack or appetizer.

Recipe guidance

Crispiness Control

Pat the olive oil dry, avoid crowding, and use only a light coat of oil or sauce before cooking. Add wet sauces near the end when you want the outside to stay crisp.

Storage

Store leftover Air Fryer Smoky Paprika Beef Empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cool the food before sealing so excess steam does not soften the texture.

FAQ

Can I make Air Fryer Smoky Paprika Beef Empanadas ahead of time?: You can prep the ingredients and seasoning ahead, but air fry close to serving for the best texture.
How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?: Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.
Can I adjust the seasoning?: Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.