These Air Fryer Cheesy Taco Bombs are crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and packed with delicious taco flavors. They’re quick, easy, and perfect for a snack, appetizer, or party food!
📝 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)
- ½ cup salsa
- Cooking spray
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, jalapeños
👩🍳 Directions:
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
1️⃣ Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough & Filling
2️⃣ Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into triangles.
3️⃣ In a bowl, mix together cooked ground beef, shredded cheese, and salsa.
Step 3: Assemble the Taco Bombs
4️⃣ Place a spoonful of the beef and cheese mixture at the wide end of each crescent triangle.
5️⃣ Roll up the dough from the wide end to the pointed end, pinching the edges to seal.
Step 4: Air Fry
6️⃣ Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
7️⃣ Arrange the taco bombs inside in a single layer, leaving space between each.
8️⃣ Cook for 10–12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
9️⃣ Let them cool slightly and serve warm with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or jalapeños. Enjoy!
⏱️ Cooking Info:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 20-22 minutes
- Servings: 8 taco bombs
30 Popular Questions & Answers About Air Fryer Cheesy Taco Bombs
General Recipe Questions
- What are Air Fryer Cheesy Taco Bombs?
- They’re crescent dough bites stuffed with seasoned beef, cheese, and salsa, air-fried until crispy.
- Can I make these ahead of time?
- Yes! Assemble them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before air frying.
- Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
- Yes, for even cooking and crispiness, preheat for about 3 minutes.
- What type of cheese works best?
- Cheddar, Mexican blend, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for extra spice.
- How do I keep them from bursting open?
- Pinch the edges tightly and don’t overfill.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Can I use pizza dough instead of crescent dough?
- Yes! Just roll the dough thin and cut into squares.
- What can I use instead of ground beef?
- Try ground turkey, chicken, or black beans for a vegetarian option.
- Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?
- Yes! Or make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Can I use flour tortillas instead of crescent dough?
- Yes, but they won’t puff up—they’ll be more like mini taco pockets.
- Can I add beans to the filling?
- Yes! Add refried beans or black beans for extra heartiness.
Cooking & Preparation Questions
- Can I bake these instead of air frying?
- Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
- Can I fry them in oil?
- Yes! Deep fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-4 minutes until crispy.
- Can I make these in a toaster oven?
- Yes! Bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes.
- Do I need to flip them in the air fryer?
- Not necessary, but flipping halfway through ensures even browning.
- How do I prevent sticking in the air fryer?
- Spray the basket lightly with cooking spray or use parchment paper.
Storage & Leftovers
- How long do these last in the fridge?
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze them?
- Yes! Freeze before or after cooking for up to 3 months.
- How do I reheat leftovers?
- Air fry at 350°F for 3-5 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.
- Can I meal prep these for later?
- Yes! Assemble and freeze, then cook straight from frozen.
- Will they stay crispy after reheating?
- Yes, but reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
Customization & Variations
- How can I make them spicier?
- Add chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or Pepper Jack cheese.
- Can I add extra toppings inside?
- Yes! Try black olives, green chilies, or diced bell peppers.
- Can I make them vegetarian?
- Yes! Use black beans, refried beans, or soy crumbles.
- Can I add rice to the filling?
- Yes, Mexican rice adds extra flavor.
- How do I make these gluten-free?
- Use gluten-free crescent dough or corn tortillas.
Serving Suggestions
- What dipping sauces go well with these?
- Salsa, guacamole, queso, or sour cream.
- What side dishes pair well with this?
- Mexican street corn, Spanish rice, or a fresh salad.
- Can I serve these at a party?
- Yes! Make a big batch and serve with dips.
- How can I present them nicely?
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, jalapeño slices, and shredded cheese.
- Can I make mini taco bombs for appetizers?
- Yes! Cut the crescent dough into smaller pieces before filling.
30 Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Cheesy Taco Bombs
For the Dough
- Use cold crescent dough—it’s easier to handle.
- Pinch seams tightly to prevent leaks.
- Don’t overstuff or they may burst open.
- Chill for 10 minutes before air frying for better shape.
- Brush with egg wash or butter for a golden finish.
For the Filling
- Drain excess grease from beef to avoid sogginess.
- Mix in cream cheese for extra creaminess.
- Use freshly shredded cheese—it melts better.
- Chop ingredients finely for even distribution.
- Add a little lime juice for extra zing.
For Air Frying
- Preheat your air fryer for best results.
- Place bombs in a single layer—don’t overcrowd.
- Shake the basket halfway through for even cooking.
- Let them cool slightly before eating (they’re hot inside!).
- If they brown too fast, lower temperature to 360°F.
For Extra Flavor
- Sprinkle with taco seasoning before cooking.
- Add garlic powder or paprika for extra depth.
- Serve with lime wedges for a fresh kick.
- Use spicy salsa for an extra kick.
- Brush with garlic butter after air frying.
For Storage & Freezing
- Store in an airtight container to keep fresh.
- Reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
- Freeze before baking for quick meals later.
- Label and date freezer bags.
- Pack in lunchboxes for a fun snack!
These Air Fryer Cheesy Taco Bombs are crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor—a must-try for any taco lover! 🌮🔥✨