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 Spiced Lentil and Sweet Potato Empanadas

Name: Air Fryer Spiced Lentil and Sweet Potato Empanadas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked green or brown lentils, drained and rinsed; 1 cup sweet potato, peeled and diced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional for mild heat); Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 8 gluten-free empanada or pie crust discs (store-bought or homemade); 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tablespoon lime juice; Non-stick cooking spray or a light brush of oil for air fryer basket

By AirFryFeast Editorial TeamPublished Mar 31, 2026 | Updated Jun 16, 2026

Make these crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Spiced Lentil and Sweet Potato Empanadas—a snack ready in under 30 minutes. Full of savory spices and natural sweetness, they’re ideal for snacking or a quick meal with Latin American flair.

Start cooking

Air fryerLatin AmericanEasyAir Fryer Friendly

Prep Time15 mins

Cook Time12 mins

Total Time27 mins

Servings8

Temperature375°F / 190°C

Ingredients

Servings8

1 cup cooked green or brown lentils, drained and rinsed
1 cup sweet potato, peeled and diced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional for mild heat)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
8 gluten-free empanada or pie crust discs (store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tablespoon lime juice
Non-stick cooking spray or a light brush of oil for air fryer basket

Instructions

Steam or boil the diced sweet potato until tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and lightly mash, leaving some texture.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
Add minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in cooked lentils and mashed sweet potato. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, to blend flavors.
Remove from heat. Mix in chopped cilantro and lime juice. Adjust seasoning as needed and let filling cool for 5 minutes.
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Place one empanada disc on a clean surface. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of filling in the center, leaving edges clear.
Fold the disc over into a half-moon shape. Press edges firmly and crimp with a fork to seal.
Lightly spray or brush empanadas with oil on both sides to ensure crisping.
Arrange empanadas in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping.
Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
Remove and cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauce or fresh salsa.

Recipe guidance

Crispiness Control

Pat the cooked green or brown lentils 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 Spiced Lentil and Sweet Potato 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 Spiced Lentil and Sweet Potato 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.