Sometimes, the day drags on and suddenly you realize you haven’t planned a dinner that excites you. That’s exactly where these tilapia air fryer empanadas came in for me last week. I was halfway through my work emails, the kitchen light flickering a little oddly, and my mind wandering to something crispy and warm. Midweek meals often feel like a rush, but these empanadas promised a quick, satisfying escape.
As the air fryer hummed softly in the background, I could smell the gentle spice of cumin and paprika mingling with the sweetness of sautéed peppers and onions. The tilapia filling was tender, not fishy at all, which I appreciated since I’m a bit picky about seafood textures. I admit, I got a bit distracted when the first batch went in—maybe scrolling through my phone or thinking about tomorrow’s schedule—and almost left them a minute too long. But that slight over-crisp only made the edges more addictive, that perfect crunch that made it impossible to stop at one.
These empanadas weren’t just dinner; they were a little celebration of comfort and flavor, wrapped up in a flaky crust that I didn’t have to deep-fry. It’s funny how something simple and homey can feel like a treat when you least expect it.
- Offers a crispy, golden exterior with a flaky texture that you can taste without the guilt of frying.
- The tilapia filling is seasoned but mild, balancing spices without overwhelming the delicate fish flavor.
- It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point. No complicated steps or long cook times, just satisfying food.
- Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner when you want something different from the usual sandwich or salad.
If you’re wary of seafood or new to empanadas, these are a gentle introduction. The filling is forgiving, and the air fryer does most of the work, so you can focus on the rest of your day without hovering.
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Tilapia Air Fryer Empanadas
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 empanadas 1x
Description
Delicious and crispy empanadas filled with seasoned tilapia, cooked to perfection in an air fryer for a healthier twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients
1/2 pound tilapia fillets, skin removed and diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
6 empanada dough discs (store-bought or homemade, about 6 inches in diameter)
1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
In a medium bowl, toss the diced tilapia with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add the seasoned tilapia to the skillet along with ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fish is opaque and cooked through.
Remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
Place one empanada dough disc on a clean surface. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the tilapia filling onto the center of the disc.
Sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of shredded cheddar cheese over the filling.
Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together and crimp with a fork to seal tightly.
Repeat the filling and folding process with the remaining dough discs and filling.
Brush the tops of each empanada with the beaten egg to help them brown.
Place the empanadas in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they do not touch. You may need to cook in batches.
Air fry the empanadas at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Remove the empanadas from the air fryer and let cool for 2 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Don’t worry about fancy equipment here — just an air fryer and a skillet will do the trick. When I serve these, I like to add a simple side of avocado slices or a fresh salad to keep things light. Sometimes, I experiment by swapping cheddar for a milder cheese or adding a splash of lime juice to the filling for a brighter note, though I haven’t tested all variations enough to swear by them.
For a little twist, you might try a different fish or even a shrimp filling, but keep in mind the cook times might need adjusting. If you want a vegetarian version, mushrooms and corn could be a cozy swap, though it won’t have the same seafood charm.
FAQ
Can I prepare these ahead of time? Absolutely, you can make the filling in advance and keep the empanadas ready for air frying when you want them.
How do I reheat leftovers? The air fryer works best for reheating to keep that crisp crust—just a few minutes at a lower temperature should do.
Are these spicy? They have a gentle warmth from the spices, but nothing too intense unless you add extra chili powder.
Ready to turn your next meal into a crispy, flavorful moment? Give these tilapia air fryer empanadas a try and see how quickly they become a favorite.