Introduction
The Air Fryer Crunchwrap Supreme is a delicious and crispy twist on the popular fast-food favorite. By using an air fryer, this version is healthier than the traditional method, with less oil but all the flavor and crunch you crave. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe combines seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, melted cheese, and fresh toppings, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla shell.
Overview of the Recipe
This recipe takes the classic Crunchwrap Supreme and adapts it for the air fryer, resulting in a crispy, golden exterior with a warm and satisfying filling. The air fryer not only makes this dish quicker to prepare but also healthier, as it uses less oil. The Crunchwrap is filled with seasoned ground beef, refried beans, cheddar cheese, and topped with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Calories per Serving: 450 kcal
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef: The primary protein in the Crunchwrap, providing a savory and hearty filling.
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning: Adds bold Mexican-inspired flavors to the ground beef.
- 1 cup refried beans: Provides a creamy texture and rich flavor, complementing the seasoned beef.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the filling, adding gooeyness and richness.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds a tangy, creamy element that balances the richness of the beef and beans.
- 1 cup shredded lettuce: Provides a fresh, crunchy contrast to the warm filling.
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes: Adds a juicy, fresh topping to the Crunchwrap.
- 4 large flour tortillas: Forms the outer layer of the Crunchwrap, holding all the fillings together.
- 4 small flour tortillas: Used to reinforce the filling inside the large tortillas, ensuring the Crunchwrap stays intact.
- Cooking spray or olive oil: For greasing the air fryer basket, helping to achieve a crispy finish.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef Filling
- In a large skillet, cook 1 lb of ground beef over medium heat until it is browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning and cook according to the package instructions, usually for about 1-2 minutes. Set the seasoned beef aside.
2. Assemble the Crunchwraps
- Lay out the 4 large flour tortillas on a clean, flat surface.
- Spread 1/4 cup of refried beans in the center of each large tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Top the beans with a layer of the seasoned ground beef, dividing it evenly among the tortillas.
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef on each tortilla.
- Place one of the small flour tortillas directly on top of the filling, gently pressing down to slightly flatten the layers.
3. Fold the Tortillas
- Carefully fold the edges of the large tortilla over the small tortilla, working in sections to create a hexagon shape. Ensure the folds overlap to fully enclose the filling and pinch the edges together to seal.
- Repeat this process for each Crunchwrap.
4. Air Fry the Crunchwraps
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the Crunchwraps in the air fryer basket, seam side down. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
- Air fry the Crunchwraps for 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Check them halfway through cooking to ensure they are browning evenly.
5. Serve
- Once the Crunchwraps are crispy and golden, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly for a few minutes.
- Cut each Crunchwrap in half and serve with a dollop of sour cream, shredded lettuce, and diced tomatoes on the side for a fresh, cool contrast to the warm filling.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Air Fryer Crunchwrap Supreme pairs well with a variety of sides and beverages:
- Sides: Serve with a side of Mexican rice, guacamole, or a simple corn salad.
- Dips: Pair with salsa, queso dip, or a spicy hot sauce for dipping.
- Beverages: Enjoy with a cold soda, a refreshing iced tea, or a limeade to complement the rich flavors of the Crunchwrap.
Variations of the Recipe
There are several ways to customize this recipe to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with seasoned black beans or a plant-based meat alternative.
- Spicy Version: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy salsa to the filling for an extra kick.
- Chicken Crunchwrap: Use cooked, shredded chicken instead of ground beef, seasoned with taco seasoning.
- Cheesy Variation: Add an extra layer of nacho cheese sauce inside the Crunchwrap for a gooey, cheesy version.
Health Benefits and Notes
While the Air Fryer Crunchwrap Supreme is a fun and indulgent meal, it does offer some nutritional benefits when compared to traditional deep-fried versions:
- Air Frying: Using an air fryer reduces the amount of oil needed, making the Crunchwrap lower in fat and calories.
- Protein-Rich: The ground beef provides a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to fit your dietary needs, such as using lean ground beef, adding extra veggies, or opting for a whole wheat tortilla.
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare the Crunchwraps in advance?
A: Yes, you can assemble the Crunchwraps ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Air fry them just before serving to ensure they stay crispy.
Q: Can I freeze the Crunchwraps?
A: While it’s best to enjoy these fresh, you can freeze the uncooked, assembled Crunchwraps. Freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Air fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q: What if I don’t have an air fryer?
A: If you don’t have an air fryer, you can cook the Crunchwraps in a skillet over medium heat. Cook seam side down first to seal, then flip and cook until golden brown on both sides.
Q: Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
A: Flour tortillas are recommended for their pliability and ability to hold the filling without breaking. Corn tortillas may crack or break when folded, so they are not ideal for this recipe.
Conclusion
The Air Fryer Crunchwrap Supreme is a delicious, easy-to-make version of the popular fast-food item, perfect for a quick meal or a fun family dinner. With a crispy, golden exterior and a flavorful, satisfying filling, these Crunchwraps are sure to become a favorite in your household. The air fryer makes them healthier and faster to prepare, allowing you to enjoy all the indulgence without the guilt. Try out this recipe and enjoy a homemade, customizable take on a classic comfort food!