If you love bold flavors wrapped up in a warm, cheesy package, then you are going to adore this Air Fryer Cheesy Taco Bombs Recipe. These little pockets of deliciousness are packed with seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar, and a crispy golden crust, all perfectly cooked in the air fryer for a quick and irresistibly tasty meal or snack. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something fun and flavorful, these taco bombs bring fiesta vibes to your kitchen with minimal fuss and maximum yum.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Air Fryer Cheesy Taco Bombs Recipe are wonderfully straightforward but pack a punch in flavor and texture. From the savory taco-seasoned beef to the melty cheddar cheese and the pillowy biscuit dough, each component is essential in creating that perfect bite.
- 1 pound ground beef: The meaty base that soaks up the taco seasoning beautifully for a rich and hearty filling.
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning: Adds that classic Tex-Mex flavor, spicing up the beef with a delightful blend of spices.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts to gooey perfection inside each bomb, making every bite irresistibly cheesy.
- 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough (8 large biscuits): Acts as the fluffy, buttery casing that crisps up in the air fryer.
- 1 egg, beaten: Used as an egg wash to give the bombs a gorgeous golden sheen when baked.
- 2 tablespoons water: Mixed with the egg to create the perfect glaze for an even bake and shine.
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips (optional): For an added crispy layer on the outside that gives a nice crunchy texture contrast.
- Sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for serving (optional): Perfect cooling or zesty accompaniments that elevate the flavor.
How to Make Air Fryer Cheesy Taco Bombs Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Taco Meat
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground beef until nicely browned. This step is crucial because you want the beef thoroughly cooked and flavorful. Make sure to drain any excess fat so the filling won’t be greasy.
Step 2: Season the Beef
Next, stir in the taco seasoning along with a little water to help the spices meld into the meat. Let it simmer gently until the beef is richly coated and the mixture thickens, usually about 3 to 5 minutes. Then, set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the dough.
Step 3: Prepare the Biscuit Dough
Take your refrigerated biscuit dough and flatten each biscuit into a roughly 4-inch round using your hands or a rolling pin. This step creates a nice canvas to hold the yummy taco filling securely inside.
Step 4: Fill the Bombs
Place about one tablespoon of the taco meat in the center of each dough round, then sprinkle just a pinch of shredded cheddar cheese on top to add that creamy, melty center everyone craves.
Step 5: Seal the Bombs
Carefully fold the dough around the filling and pinch the edges tightly to seal your taco bomb. This ensures that the cheesy, beefy surprise stays inside as it cooks, giving you a neat little parcel of flavor.
Step 6: Apply the Egg Wash
In a small bowl, beat together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Using a brush, generously coat each sealed taco bomb with this mixture. This simple step will help the dough turn a beautiful golden brown in the air fryer.
Step 7: Add Crunch (Optional)
If you love extra crunch, roll your egg-washed taco bombs in crushed tortilla chips. This outside layer will add a satisfying crisp texture that makes eating these bombs even more fun.
Step 8: Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Place the taco bombs seam-side down in the basket to keep them sealed during cooking. Air fry for 7 to 9 minutes until they are golden, puffed, and cooked through. The aroma alone is guaranteed to have your mouth watering!
Step 9: Serve Warm
Once your Air Fryer Cheesy Taco Bombs Recipe is done, serve them up warm with your favorite sides and dips. They’re best enjoyed fresh but also make fantastic leftovers.
How to Serve Air Fryer Cheesy Taco Bombs Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped cilantro or green onions adds a fresh, vibrant touch. For an extra burst of flavor, try a dollop of sour cream, a scoop of guacamole, or your favorite salsa to dip these cheesy delights.
Side Dishes
Pair your taco bombs with a crisp side salad, Mexican street corn, or some refried beans to round out the meal. These sides complement the rich and savory bombs while keeping things light and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not serve your taco bombs on a platter surrounded by small bowls of various dips for a fun taco bar setup? You can also slice them in half to showcase the cheesy filling, making them perfect appetizers at any party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover taco bombs should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to 3 days and keep their flavors intact for easy reheating later.
Freezing
To freeze, place the unbaked taco bombs on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze well for up to 2 months, making meal prep a breeze.
Reheating
For best results, reheat refrigerated or thawed taco bombs in the air fryer at 350°F for about 4 to 5 minutes until warmed through and crispy. You can also use a conventional oven, but the air fryer brings back that fresh-crisp texture beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use frozen biscuit dough for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the biscuit dough completely before flattening and assembling the taco bombs to ensure even cooking in the air fryer.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute work well if you prefer something lighter or vegetarian-friendly. Just adjust seasoning to taste.
Are these taco bombs spicy?
The spice level depends on your taco seasoning. You can make them as mild or as spicy as you like by choosing your seasoning blend or adding extra chili flakes.
Can I prepare these ahead of time and bake later?
Absolutely! Assemble the taco bombs, refrigerate or freeze them, and air fry when ready. This recipe is perfect for meal prep or unexpected guests.
What dipping sauces go best with Air Fryer Cheesy Taco Bombs Recipe?
Classic choices like sour cream, guacamole, and salsa work great, but you can also try spicy ranch, chipotle mayo, or even a fresh pico de gallo for extra flavor variety.
Final Thoughts
If you want a recipe that’s quick, fun, and endlessly satisfying, the Air Fryer Cheesy Taco Bombs Recipe is a must-try. They’re wonderfully cheesy, packed with flavorful beef, and have that perfect crispy outside that the air fryer delivers every time. Give them a shot and bring a little taco party straight into your home—you won’t regret it!
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Air Fryer Cheesy Taco Bombs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
Air Fryer Cheesy Taco Bombs are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or meal that combines seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, and biscuit dough, cooked to golden perfection in an air fryer. These flavorful pockets are crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, perfect for serving with your favorite dips like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Dough
- 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough (8 large biscuits)
Egg Wash
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons water
Optional
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
- Sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the filling from being greasy.
- Add Seasoning: Stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water. Let it simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and allow it to cool.
- Prepare Biscuit Dough: Flatten each refrigerated biscuit into about a 4-inch round using your hands or a rolling pin for easier filling and folding.
- Fill the Dough: Place 1 tablespoon of the prepared taco meat and a pinch of shredded cheddar cheese into the center of each biscuit round.
- Seal Taco Bombs: Fold the dough around the filling and pinch the edges tightly to prevent leaking during cooking.
- Make Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg with 2 tablespoons of water to create an egg wash that will give the taco bombs a beautiful golden crust.
- Brush with Egg Wash: Brush each sealed taco bomb generously with the egg wash for a glossy finish.
- Add Crunch (Optional): For extra crunch, roll the taco bombs in crushed tortilla chips before cooking.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat.
- Air Fry: Place the taco bombs seam-side down into the air fryer basket. Cook for 7 to 9 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Serve the taco bombs warm with your favorite dips such as sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for dipping.
Notes
- You can omit the crushed tortilla chips if you prefer a softer crust.
- Make sure to seal the edges tightly to avoid filling leakage during air frying.
- Allow the cooked taco bombs to cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth.
- These taco bombs can be kept warm in a low oven if preparing ahead.
- Leftover taco bombs can be refrigerated and reheated in the air fryer for best crispness.
