Air Fryer Taco Bombs: Get ready to explode with flavor! Imagine biting into a golden-brown, perfectly crispy sphere, only to be greeted by a warm, cheesy, and savory taco filling. These aren’t your average tacos; they’re a fun, hand-held twist on a classic that will have everyone begging for more.

While the exact origins of “Taco Bombs” are a bit of a mystery, their popularity stems from the desire for convenient and delicious comfort food. They take the beloved flavors of tacos a dish with deep roots in Mexican culinary tradition and transform them into a portable, easy-to-eat package. Tacos themselves have evolved over centuries, from simple street food to gourmet creations, and these Air Fryer Taco Bombs represent another exciting evolution.

What’s not to love? The crispy exterior gives way to a soft, flavorful interior. The combination of seasoned ground meat, melted cheese, and your favorite taco toppings creates a symphony of textures and tastes. Plus, using the air fryer makes them incredibly quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or a fun appetizer for your next gathering. I promise, once you try these, they’ll become a regular part of your recipe rotation!

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
1/2 cup water
1 (10 ounce) can refrigerated biscuit dough (large size)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, guacamole, chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce
Cooking spray

Preparing the Taco Meat Filling:

Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, crumble and cook the ground beef until it is fully browned. Drain off any excess grease. This is a crucial step, as excess grease can make your taco bombs soggy. I usually use a paper towel to soak up any remaining grease in the pan after draining.
Add Taco Seasoning and Water: Once the ground beef is browned and drained, add the taco seasoning packet and water to the skillet. Stir well to combine, ensuring the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the meat.
Simmer the Mixture: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the water has been absorbed and the taco seasoning has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This simmering process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a richer and more flavorful filling.
Incorporate Vegetables (Optional): If you’re using onion and green bell pepper, now is the time to add them to the taco meat mixture. Stir them in and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until they are slightly softened. I love the added texture and flavor these vegetables bring to the taco bombs. You can also add other vegetables like diced tomatoes or corn if you prefer.
Cool Slightly: Remove the skillet from the heat and let the taco meat filling cool slightly before assembling the taco bombs. This will prevent the biscuit dough from melting or becoming too soft.

Assembling the Taco Bombs:

Prepare the Biscuit Dough: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). While the air fryer is preheating, open the can of refrigerated biscuit dough. Gently separate each biscuit.
Flatten the Biscuits: On a lightly floured surface, flatten each biscuit into a thin circle, about 4-5 inches in diameter. You can use a rolling pin or simply press them out with your fingers. The thinner the biscuit, the easier it will be to seal the taco bomb.
Add Filling and Cheese: Place a spoonful (about 2-3 tablespoons) of the taco meat filling in the center of each flattened biscuit. Top with a generous sprinkle of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Don’t overfill the biscuits, or they will be difficult to seal.
Seal the Taco Bombs: Carefully bring the edges of the biscuit dough up and over the filling, pinching them together to completely seal the taco bomb. Make sure there are no gaps or openings, or the filling will leak out during cooking. I like to pinch the seams really well to ensure they stay closed.
Shape and Place: Gently roll the sealed taco bomb in your hands to form a smooth, round ball. Place the taco bombs seam-side down on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Air Frying the Taco Bombs:

Prepare the Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent the taco bombs from sticking.
Arrange Taco Bombs in the Basket: Place the taco bombs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between each one to allow for even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches. Overcrowding the basket can result in unevenly cooked taco bombs.
Air Fry the Taco Bombs: Air fry the taco bombs for 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the biscuit dough is fully cooked. Check them halfway through and flip them over if necessary to ensure even browning. The exact cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer, so keep a close eye on them.
Check for Doneness: To ensure the taco bombs are fully cooked, insert a toothpick into the center of one. If the toothpick comes out clean, they are done. If not, continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes.
Remove and Cool Slightly: Carefully remove the taco bombs from the air fryer basket and let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. They will be very hot inside, so be careful not to burn yourself.

Serving and Enjoying Your Taco Bombs:

Serve Warm: Serve the taco bombs warm, with your favorite toppings.
Add Toppings: Offer a variety of toppings such as sour cream, salsa, guacamole, chopped tomatoes, and shredded lettuce. Let everyone customize their own taco bombs to their liking.
Enjoy! These air fryer taco bombs are perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal, a party appetizer, or a fun snack. Enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

Use Different Meats: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even shredded chicken for a lighter option.
Add Beans: Add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or pinto beans to the taco meat filling for added protein and fiber.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the taco meat filling for extra heat.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack, Colby jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
Vegetarian Option: Use a plant-based ground meat substitute or a mixture of beans, corn, and vegetables for a vegetarian version.
Make Ahead: You can assemble the taco bombs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before air frying. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Freezing Instructions: To freeze the taco bombs, assemble them as directed, but do not air fry them. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 1-2 hours, or until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, air fry them from frozen for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.
Dipping Sauces: Serve the taco bombs with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, cheese sauce, or a spicy mayo.
Garlic Powder: Add a teaspoon of garlic powder to the ground beef while browning for extra flavor.
Onion Powder: Similar to garlic powder, a teaspoon of onion powder can enhance the savory flavor of the filling.
Cumin: If you want a more pronounced taco flavor, add an extra half teaspoon of cumin to the meat mixture.
Chili Powder: For a deeper, richer flavor, add a quarter teaspoon of chili powder.
Smoked Paprika: A pinch of smoked paprika can add a subtle smoky flavor to the taco meat.
Cornstarch Slurry: If the taco meat filling is too watery after simmering, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the mixture. Cook for a minute or two until thickened.
Brush with Butter: For an extra golden and flavorful crust, brush the taco bombs with melted butter before air frying.
Sprinkle with Seasoning: Sprinkle the taco bombs with a little extra taco seasoning or everything bagel seasoning before air frying for added flavor and texture.
Use Smaller Biscuits: If you prefer smaller taco bombs, use the smaller size refrigerated biscuit dough. You may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Add Cream Cheese: Mix a couple of tablespoons of softened cream cheese into the taco meat filling for a creamier and richer flavor.
Use Different Peppers: Instead of green bell pepper, try using red, yellow, or orange bell peppers for a sweeter flavor. You can also add a diced jalapeño pepper for extra heat.
Add Corn: Add a half cup of frozen or canned corn to the taco meat filling for added sweetness and texture.
Add Diced Tomatoes: Add a half cup of diced tomatoes to the taco meat filling for added moisture and flavor.
Use Different Herbs: Add a tablespoon of chopped fresh cilantro or parsley to the taco meat filling for added freshness.
Make Mini Taco Bombs: Cut each biscuit

Conclusion:

Okay, friends, let’s be honest you’ve scrolled this far because something about these Air Fryer Taco Bombs screamed “delicious,” right? And trust me, they absolutely live up to the hype. This isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion wrapped in a perfectly golden, crispy package. The ease of preparation, combined with the incredible taste and customizable nature of this recipe, makes it a total winner in my book, and I know it will be in yours too. Why is this a must-try? Well, first and foremost, it’s incredibly quick. We’re talking minimal prep time and a speedy cook in the air fryer, making it ideal for those busy evenings when you’re craving something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Secondly, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Kids and adults alike will devour these little pockets of taco goodness. The customizable filling means you can cater to everyone’s preferences, ensuring happy faces all around. And finally, let’s not forget the texture! The contrast between the crispy, golden-brown exterior and the warm, cheesy, flavorful filling is simply irresistible. But the fun doesn’t stop there! These Air Fryer Taco Bombs are incredibly versatile. Looking for serving suggestions? I love serving them with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a side of your favorite salsa or guacamole. For a complete meal, pair them with a simple side salad or some Mexican rice. Want to switch things up? Go for it! Try using different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for an extra kick. Add some black beans or corn to the filling for added texture and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with different spices and seasonings. A little smoked paprika or chili powder can really elevate the flavor profile. You could even make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with seasoned lentils or crumbled tofu. The possibilities are endless! And here’s a pro tip: these Air Fryer Taco Bombs are also fantastic for meal prepping. You can assemble them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to air fry them. They also reheat beautifully, making them perfect for lunch the next day. Just pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until they’re warmed through and crispy again. I truly believe that this recipe will become a staple in your household. It’s easy, delicious, and endlessly adaptable. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your air fryer, and get ready to experience the magic of Air Fryer Taco Bombs! I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and I can’t wait to hear what you think! Please, please, please come back and leave a comment below letting me know how they turned out. Did you make any variations? What were your favorite toppings? Share your tips and tricks with the rest of us! Your feedback is invaluable and helps me create even better recipes for you in the future. Happy cooking!