Air Fryer Cheesy Taco Bombs: The Perfect Crispy & Cheesy Snack
Calling all taco lovers! If you’re looking for a quick, cheesy, and delicious snack that’s perfect for game nights, family gatherings, or an easy dinner, these Air Fryer Cheesy Taco Bombs are exactly what you need. Wrapped in flaky crescent dough, filled with seasoned taco beef, melted cheese, and a hint of salsa, then crisped to golden perfection in the air fryer, these bite-sized delights are sure to be a hit.
Introduction
There’s something special about crispy, golden bites filled with gooey cheese and savory taco flavors. These Air Fryer Cheesy Taco Bombs are a fun twist on traditional tacos—wrapped in soft crescent dough and air-fried to perfection, they deliver all the flavors of your favorite tacos in a convenient, handheld form.
The air fryer makes them incredibly crispy without the need for deep frying, making them a healthier yet indulgent option. Whether you’re making them for a quick appetizer, a snack, or a fun dinner idea, they come together in just 20 minutes with simple ingredients. Plus, they’re completely customizable—add jalapeños for a spicy kick, mix in black beans for extra protein, or serve with your favorite dips like sour cream or guacamole.
Let’s dive into this easy and flavorful recipe that’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your home!
Ingredients
To prepare these cheesy, taco-filled air fryer delights, you’ll need the following:
Essential Ingredients
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent dough
- 1 cup cooked ground beef (seasoned with taco seasoning)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup salsa
- Cooking spray
Optional Toppings
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Jalapeños
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Pico de gallo
How to Make Air Fryer Cheesy Taco Bombs
1. Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes. Preheating ensures the crescent dough turns golden and crispy without overcooking the filling.
2. Prepare the Crescent Dough
Unroll the refrigerated crescent dough and separate it into triangles along the pre-cut lines. Lay them flat on a clean surface or a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy assembly.
3. Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, shredded cheese, and salsa. Stir well to ensure the flavors mix together evenly. The salsa adds a hint of zest and moisture, while the cheese binds everything together.
4. Assemble the Taco Bombs
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the beef and cheese mixture onto the wide end of each crescent triangle. Carefully roll the dough from the wide end to the pointed end, enclosing the filling inside. Pinch the edges lightly to seal in all that delicious goodness.
5. Air Fry the Taco Bombs
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the taco bombs in a single layer, leaving a little space between each so they crisp up evenly. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
6. Cook Until Golden Brown
Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking. The crescent dough should puff up beautifully, creating a soft, flaky crust with a crunchy exterior.
7. Serve & Enjoy!
Remove the taco bombs from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or fresh cilantro.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Taco Bombs
- Seal the Edges Well: Lightly pinch the dough edges to prevent the cheese from leaking out.
- Don’t Overstuff: A little filling goes a long way! Too much can cause the dough to tear.
- Avoid Soggy Dough: Make sure the beef mixture isn’t too wet. If needed, drain excess liquid from the salsa.
- Use Parchment Paper: To prevent sticking, you can place a small piece of parchment paper in the air fryer basket before adding the taco bombs.
Cooking Tips for the Best Taco Bombs
To elevate your Air Fryer Cheesy Taco Bombs, consider these extra cooking tips:
- Cheese Variations: Try pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or a spicy Mexican blend for different flavor profiles.
- Crispier Texture: Brush the tops of the taco bombs with melted butter or egg wash before air frying for an even richer golden color.
- Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling for extra heat.
- Try a Different Protein: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, shredded chicken, or black beans for a different variation.
Serving Suggestions
These cheesy taco bombs are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides and dips:
- Classic Dips: Serve with salsa, queso, guacamole, or sour cream for an extra burst of flavor.
- Side Dishes: Pair with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
- Party Platter: Serve alongside nachos, taquitos, or mini quesadillas for a fun appetizer spread.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a nutritional breakdown per serving (approximate values):
- Calories: 290
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Calcium: 12%
- Iron: 10%
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store leftover taco bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes or in the oven at 375°F for 8 minutes to retain crispiness.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked taco bombs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook from frozen at 375°F for 12-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use homemade dough instead of crescent dough?
Yes! Homemade pizza dough or biscuit dough works well as a substitute.
What’s the best cheese to use?
A Mexican blend, cheddar, or Monterey Jack works best for a melty, gooey filling.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the taco bombs ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Related Recipes You’ll Love
If you loved these Air Fryer Cheesy Taco Bombs, try these other delicious air fryer and Mexican-inspired recipes:
- Teriyaki Salmon Bowls with Crispy Brussels Sprouts
- Crispy Fish Batter Recipe
- Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Oyster Stew – A Classic Comfort Dish
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Cheesy Taco Bombs are a quick, delicious, and crispy twist on traditional tacos. Whether you’re looking for a fun party snack, an easy dinner, or a kid-friendly meal, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Try them today and enjoy the perfect combination of cheesy, beefy, and flaky goodness in every bite! 🌮🔥