Low-Carb Beef Empanadas – Easy Keto Recipe in the Air Fryer
I grew up watching my mom cook, and those moments shaped my love for food. After she passed, I found healing in the kitchen recreating the meals she once made for us with so much love.
One night, craving her beef empanadas but needing something low-carb, I began testing a keto version. I swapped traditional dough for almond flour, used my air fryer instead of frying in oil, and to my surprise it worked. These low-carb beef empanadas turned out crispy, savory, and comforting, just like hers, but healthier.
Now it’s one of my favorite air fryer recipes, and I’m excited to share it with you.
Don’t miss our collection of healthy air fryer snacks too: Check out these low-calorie air fryer snacks for weight loss
Table of Contents
Introduction to Low-Carb Beef Empanadas
What Are Empanadas?
Empanadas are flaky, savory pastries filled with meats, cheese, or veggies comfort food at its best. But the traditional dough? It’s usually loaded with carbs. That’s where low-carb beef empanadas come in.
With a few simple swaps, like almond or coconut flour for the crust, you can enjoy this classic dish while sticking to your keto goals.
Why Make Them Low-Carb?
Going low-carb doesn’t mean giving up your favorite meals. These keto empanadas give you all the flavor and crunch you love, minus the guilt. Plus, they’re packed with protein, freezer-friendly, and perfect for quick dinners or meal prep.
Even better? The air fryer makes them golden and crispy no deep frying required.
Benefits of Making Low-Carb Empanadas in the Air Fryer
Less Oil, More Health
Air frying cuts the oil without cutting flavor. With far less grease than deep frying, these low-carb beef empanadas stay light, crisp, and keto-friendly.
Quick and Crispy Every Time
No long bake times here. The air fryer cooks empanadas fast with a golden crust outside and juicy beef inside all in under 15 minutes.
Looking for inspiration? Try the best air fryer snacks on our blog
Low-Carb Beef Empanadas in Air Fryer
Equipment
- Rolling Pin
- Skillet
- Fork
- Bowl
Ingredients
Fathead Dough
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella full-fat
- 2 tbsp cream cheese
- 0.75 cup almond flour blanched
- 1 egg
Beef Filling
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 preferred
- 0.5 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste no sugar added
- 1 tsp cumin
- 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg beaten, for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook onion until soft. Add garlic and sauté briefly.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in tomato paste, spices, and season to taste. Let cool slightly.
- For the dough, melt mozzarella and cream cheese together. Stir in almond flour and egg. Knead until smooth.
- Roll dough and cut into 4–6 inch circles. Spoon 1–2 tbsp of filling into each, fold, and seal with a fork.
- Brush with egg wash, place in air fryer basket, and cook 10–12 min until golden, flipping halfway if needed.
Notes
Nutrition
Ingredients for Low-Carb Beef Empanadas
Keto-Friendly Ingredients to Look For
Making delicious low-carb beef empanadas starts with smart ingredient choices. The goal is to cut carbs without losing flavor or texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Purpose | Keto Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | Classic empanada filling | Choose 80/20 for juicy results |
| Onion & Garlic | Flavor base | Use fresh, not powdered |
| Tomato Paste | Adds richness | No added sugar |
| Cumin, Paprika, Oregano | Bold Latin-inspired spices | Stick to whole spices if possible |
| Mozzarella Cheese | Helps bind the dough (fathead style) | Use full-fat shredded mozzarella |
| Almond Flour | Main dough base | Fine-blanched for best texture |
| Egg | For sealing and brushing | Adds a nice golden finish |
These simple ingredients create a flavor-packed filling and a crisp, keto-friendly crust.
Picking the Right Ground Beef and Seasonings
Go for high-quality ground beef 80/20 works best to keep the filling moist and flavorful. Avoid lean meat, which can dry out during air frying.
When it comes to seasoning, don’t hold back. Spices like smoked paprika and cumin give these keto empanadas that authentic Latin flavor without the carbs. You can also add a pinch of chili flakes if you like a little heat.
Learn more about building easy keto meals: Check out our air fryer beef meatballs recipe
The Best Keto Dough for Empanadas
Almond Flour vs. Coconut Flour
For perfect low-carb beef empanadas, almond flour is the clear winner. It creates a soft, bendable dough with a light, nutty flavor. Coconut flour can work, but it tends to be drier and harder to handle.
Quick Fathead Dough Recipe
Fathead dough is a keto favorite easy to make, and ideal for air frying.
You’ll need:
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella
- 2 tbsp cream cheese
- ¾ cup almond flour
- 1 egg
Melt the cheeses, mix in flour and egg, knead, and roll it out. Cut into circles and you’re ready to fill!
Looking for dough ideas? Try our keto low-carb garlic bread wraps
Step-by-Step Recipe: Making Low-Carb Beef Empanadas
Preparing the Beef Filling: Flavor First
The heart of any empanada is the filling, and for these low-carb beef empanadas, flavor is key. Here’s a simple, bold beef mix you can make in minutes.
Ingredients for the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (no sugar added)
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: a handful of chopped olives or jalapeños
Steps:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the onion until soft.
- Add garlic and stir for 30 seconds.
- Toss in the ground beef, breaking it up as it browns.
- Mix in the tomato paste, spices, and any extras. Cook until thick and fragrant.
- Let it cool slightly before assembling.
Assembling and Sealing Your Keto Empanadas
Once your dough is rolled and filling is ready, it’s assembly time.
How to Assemble:
- Cut dough into circles (4–6 inches wide).
- Spoon 1–2 tablespoons of beef filling onto each.
- Fold over to form a half-moon shape.
- Press edges with a fork to seal tightly.
- Brush with egg wash for a golden finish.
Looking for another stuffed air fryer recipe? Check out our keto stuffed zucchini boats in the air fryer
Your empanadas are now ready for the air fryer. In the next section, we’ll show you exactly how to cook them to crispy perfection.
How to Cook Keto Empanadas in the Air Fryer
Ideal Air Fryer Settings: Temperature & Time
Now that your low-carb beef empanadas are assembled, it’s time to cook them to crispy perfection. Air frying gives them that golden, flaky crust without needing oil or deep frying.
Air Fryer Instructions:
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C)
- Place empanadas in a single layer in the basket (don’t overcrowd)
- Lightly spray with avocado oil or olive oil spray
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway if needed
- Cook until golden brown and firm to the touch
Every air fryer varies slightly, so keep an eye on them near the end.
Tips to Avoid Dry or Overcooked Empanadas
To keep your empanadas moist and flavorful:
- Don’t overfill them too much meat can cause breakage
- Seal edges well with a fork or pinch to avoid leaks
- Let the filling cool before sealing, so steam doesn’t make the dough soggy
- Watch closely during the last 2 minutes of cooking to avoid over-browning
Don’t miss our crispy tips in this similar dish: Learn how to make air fryer cheesy tortilla garlic bread
Next, let’s talk about how to store, freeze, and reheat your leftovers the right way.
Conclusion
If you’ve been missing comfort food on your keto journey, these low-carb beef empanadas in the air fryer are your new go-to. They’re quick to make, rich in flavor, and totally customizable to your taste. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding the family, or just want a healthy snack that feels indulgent, this recipe checks all the boxes crunchy, savory, and low in carbs.
Cooking doesn’t have to mean giving up the foods you love. With the right ingredients and a little creativity, you can bring comfort food back to your plate without breaking your macros. So go ahead, fire up that air fryer and enjoy a bite of something truly satisfying.
Don’t miss our other comfort food transformations: Learn more about our best air fryer chicken recipes
FAQs About Low-Carb Beef Empanadas
Can you make empanadas low-carb?
Yes! Swap traditional dough with almond or coconut flour to make delicious low-carb beef empanadas without the carbs.
How do you cook keto empanadas in an air fryer?
Air fry at 350°F for 10–12 minutes. Spray lightly with oil, and cook until golden and crisp.
What’s the best dough for keto empanadas?
Fathead dough made with almond flour and cheese is easy to work with and air fries perfectly.
Can I freeze low-carb beef empanadas?
Absolutely. Freeze raw or cooked, then reheat in the air fryer for a quick low-carb meal.
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