Enjoy a golden, flaky Air Fryer Cheese & Onion Pasty filled with gooey cheese and caramelized onion. Easy, quick, and perfect for any meal!
There’s something deeply comforting about biting into a warm, flaky pasty. The crisp pastry gives way to a rich, gooey filling that’s bursting with flavor. Among the many variations of pasties, the classic Cheese & Onion Pasty holds a special place in many kitchens. It’s simple, affordable, and packed with that irresistible combination of tangy cheese and sweet onions.
Traditionally baked in the oven, this recipe takes a modern twist by using the air fryer. The result? A perfectly golden pasty with a crisp outer shell and a deliciously melty inside. The air fryer not only cuts down cooking time but also reduces the need for excess oil, making it a lighter yet equally satisfying version of the classic.
This Air Fryer Cheese & Onion Pasty is ideal for a quick lunch, a snack on the go, or even a cozy dinner served with a fresh side salad. It’s also versatile—you can switch up the cheeses or add extra seasonings to suit your taste. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or simply someone who loves easy, comforting food, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 2 sheets of ready-rolled puff pastry
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese, grated (optional for extra gooeyness)
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
3. Directions
- Heat butter or oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and golden brown. This should take about 8–10 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and thyme if using. Let it cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine caramelized onion with grated cheddar and mozzarella.
- Unroll puff pastry sheets and cut into equal rectangles or circles, depending on your preferred shape.
- Place a generous spoonful of the cheese-onion mixture in the center of each pastry cut-out.
- Fold the pastry over to enclose the filling. Seal edges firmly with a fork.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Preheat air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
- Place pasties in the basket, leaving space between them.
- Cook for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
- Remove carefully and let them cool slightly before serving.
4. How to Prepare
Start by preparing the filling. Slowly cook the onions until they turn soft and caramelized. This brings out their natural sweetness and pairs beautifully with sharp cheddar. Once cooked, allow the onions to cool a little before mixing them with the grated cheese.
Next, prepare the pastry. Puff pastry sheets make this recipe effortless. Cut them into evenly sized portions to ensure uniform cooking. Spoon the filling onto one side, fold over, and seal tightly. The fork crimping not only seals but also gives that traditional pasty look.
Finally, brush each pasty with egg wash. This step ensures the pastry turns golden and crisp in the air fryer. Arrange them in the basket with space for hot air to circulate, which is key to even cooking. Once air-fried, you’ll be greeted with golden pastries filled with bubbling cheese and onion goodness.
Preparation Time
- Filling preparation: 10 minutes
- Pastry assembly: 10 minutes
- Cooking time in air fryer: 12–15 minutes
- Total time: Around 35 minutes
Servings
This recipe makes 6 pasties, perfect for serving 3–4 people.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! While cheddar is classic, you can try Red Leicester, Gruyère, or even blue cheese for a stronger flavor.
Q2: Can I freeze these pasties?
Absolutely. Assemble the pasties and freeze them before cooking. When ready, cook straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the air fryer time.
Q3: How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Ensure you don’t overfill the pastry and seal the edges well with a fork. Brushing with egg wash also helps secure the edges.
Q4: Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, use vegan puff pastry, dairy-free cheese, and olive oil instead of butter. The process remains the same.
Q5: What can I serve with cheese & onion pasties?
They go well with a crisp green salad, baked beans, or a warm bowl of tomato soup.
Conclusion
The Air Fryer Cheese & Onion Pasty is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few pantry staples and the help of an air fryer, you can create a golden, flaky pastry packed with rich flavor in less than 40 minutes. The combination of sweet caramelized onions and gooey melted cheese tucked inside crisp pastry is simply irresistible.
What makes this recipe even better is its adaptability. You can swap cheeses, add herbs, or even throw in extras like spinach or mushrooms. The air fryer gives you the perfect crisp without the need for deep frying, making it a lighter yet still indulgent choice.
Perfect for lunchboxes, snacks, or easy dinners, these pasties are a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, they store and reheat beautifully, so you can always have a quick bite ready. If you’re craving something comforting, cheesy, and crispy, these air fryer pasties are sure to hit the spot.
