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Tilapia Air Fryer Empanadas

Close-up of tilapia empanada cooked in an air fryer with crispy golden crust

Delicious and crispy tilapia empanadas made effortlessly in the air fryer. These empanadas feature a flavorful tilapia filling seasoned with spices and vegetables, encased in a golden, flaky dough. Perfect as a snack or appetizer!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 pound tilapia fillets, skin removed and finely chopped
1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced
1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
6 empanada dough discs (store-bought or homemade, about 5-6 inches in diameter)
1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the chopped tilapia to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes until the fish is opaque and cooked through, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
Stir in ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 more minute to combine flavors.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. Let the filling cool slightly.
Place one empanada dough disc on a clean surface. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the tilapia filling onto the center of the dough.
Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly and crimp with a fork to seal.
Brush the top of each empanada with the beaten egg to give a golden finish when cooked.
Place the empanadas in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they do not overlap. You may need to cook in batches.
Air fry for 12-15 minutes or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the air fryer and let cool for 2 minutes before serving.