Air Fryer Taco Bombs Delight

This handy air fryer taco bombs recipe transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible snack that disappears at every gathering. The crispy golden exterior gives way to savory taco-seasoned beef and molten cheese in every bite, making them the perfect finger food for game days, movie nights, or casual entertaining.

I first made these taco bombs for a last-minute neighborhood potluck and they were gone within minutes. Now they're requested at every gathering, and my teenagers have learned to make them on their own for after-school snacks.

Ingredients

• Refrigerated biscuit dough: Creates the perfect crispy yet soft exterior without any pastry-making skills required
• Ground beef: Provides hearty protein and takes on the taco seasoning beautifully
• Taco seasoning packet: Adds authentic Mexican flavors without measuring multiple spices
• Cheddar cheese cubes: Melt into pockets of gooey goodness inside each bomb
• Optional toppings: Salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping enhance the flavor experience

How To Make Air Fryer Taco Bombs

Prepare the filling:

Cook ground beef thoroughly in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles as it browns. Stir in the full packet of taco seasoning and mix until evenly distributed. Allow the mixture to cool slightly so it will be easier to handle and won't melt the dough when filling.

Shape the biscuits:

Open your can of refrigerated biscuit dough and separate each piece. Using your fingers or a rolling pin, gently flatten each biscuit into a thin disc about 3-4 inches in diameter. Work carefully to maintain even thickness throughout.

Fill and seal:

Place a generous tablespoon of seasoned beef in the center of each flattened biscuit. Add one cube of cheddar cheese directly on top of the meat. Carefully fold the edges of the dough upward and inward, gathering them at the top. Pinch firmly to create a secure seal, ensuring no filling can escape during cooking.

Prepare for air frying:

Lightly coat your air fryer basket with cooking spray or line with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Arrange the sealed taco bombs in a single layer with space between each one to allow for proper air circulation.

Air fry to perfection:

Cook at 175°C for 5-7 minutes, checking at the 5-minute mark. The taco bombs should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. The internal temperature should reach at least 74°C to ensure the cheese is properly melted.

Serve while hot:

Transfer immediately to a serving plate and enjoy while the cheese is still molten and the exterior is crisp. Offer dipping options like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole on the side.

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My family goes crazy for the cheese pull when you break these open. I once made them with pepper jack instead of cheddar for a spicy twist, and now we alternate between the two depending on who's coming for dinner.

Make-Ahead Options

You can prepare these taco bombs completely up to the cooking stage, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before air frying. Simply place the formed bombs on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, add 1-2 minutes to the cooking time since they'll be starting cold.

Ingredient Swaps

The beauty of these taco bombs lies in their versatility. Try ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Vegetarians can substitute black beans or a plant-based meat alternative. Experiment with different cheese varieties like Monterey Jack, pepper jack for heat, or a Mexican blend. You can even add finely diced bell peppers or onions to the meat mixture for extra vegetables and flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

These taco bombs work beautifully as an appetizer, but can also serve as a main dish when paired with a side salad or Mexican rice. Create a dipping station with various salsas, guacamole, sour cream, and hot sauce to let guests customize their experience. For a fun presentation, serve them stacked in a pyramid on a platter garnished with cilantro and lime wedges.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your taco bombs are bursting open during cooking, you likely overfilled them or didn't seal the edges properly. Make sure to pinch the dough firmly and twist slightly to create a secure closure. Working with slightly cooled filling also helps prevent the dough from becoming too soft before cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prevent the dough from opening in the air fryer?

Make sure to pinch and seal the edges of the dough thoroughly. You can also lightly moisten the edges with water to help them stick together.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the taco bombs in advance, refrigerate them, and air fry just before serving. Allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before frying.

→ What dipping sauces go well with these taco bombs?

Classic choices are salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or even a spicy queso dip. Feel free to get creative with your favorite sauce!

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can use any cheese that melts well, such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack for added spice.

→ Can I bake them instead of air frying?

Absolutely! Bake at 190°C (375°F) for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

→ How do I ensure even cooking in the air fryer?

Arrange the biscuit balls in a single layer with space between each to allow proper air circulation. Air fry in batches if necessary.