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Crispy air fryer frozen empanadas in 12 minutes — no thawing required. Works with Goya, Trader Joe's, and homemade frozen empanadas.

Air Fryer Frozen Empanadas

5 from 1 vote
Author: Laurie Fleming
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings

Description

Crispy air fryer frozen empanadas in 12 minutes — no thawing required. Works with Goya, Trader Joe's, and homemade frozen empanadas.

Ingredients 

  • 6 frozen empanadas, (about 4 oz each)
  • Oil spray, optional

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
  • Arrange the frozen empanadas in a single layer in the basket, leaving at least half an inch between each one. Do not thaw.
  • Cut a small vent slit in the top of each empanada.
  • Lightly mist with oil spray, if using.
  • Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping once with tongs at the 6-minute mark.
  • Check for doneness — the crust should be deep golden and the filling should read 165°F.
  • Rest for 3 minutes on a rack before serving.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Tongs
  • Instant-read thermometer
  • Parchment liner (optional)

Notes

  • Cheese fillings: reduce to 350°F and cook 14–16 minutes.
  • Sweet or fruit fillings: reduce to 350°F and cook 10–12 minutes.
  • Mini empanadas: 375°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping at 4 minutes.
  • Trader Joe's cassava crust: 350°F for 10–12 minutes. Cassava browns faster than wheat pastry.
  • Air fryer ovens: add 2–3 minutes and rotate trays halfway.
  • Storage: cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container 3–4 days or freeze up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: 350°F for 3–4 minutes, no oil needed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 283kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 12gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 46mgSodium: 524mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gCalcium: 17mgIron: 9mg