Cornish Pasties Made in the Air Fryer
Golden, flaky, and packed with hearty filling – this air fryer version of the classic Cornish pasty brings comfort food to your kitchen in a fraction of the time.
Cornish pasties have deep roots in English culinary history, originating as a portable lunch for miners in Cornwall. Traditionally filled with beef, potato, onion, and swede (rutabaga), they’re sealed in a sturdy pastry crust and baked until golden brown. Making them in the air fryer gives you that beautiful golden finish with less oil and faster cooking. They’re perfect for a cozy lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. Let’s get into it!
Ingredients
For the pastry:
2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
½ cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
¼ cup (60g) cold lard (or more butter if you prefer)
6–8 tbsp ice-cold water
1 egg (for egg wash)
For the filling:
1 cup (150g) finely diced beef (skirt steak or chuck is ideal)
1 small potato, peeled and finely diced
½ cup (75g) swede (rutabaga), peeled and diced
½ small onion, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp butter per pasty (optional but traditional – adds extra richness)
Instructions
Make the pastry
In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt.
Rub in the cold butter and lard with your fingers until the mixture looks like breadcrumbs.
Add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and mix until a dough forms. Don’t overwork it.
Wrap in cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes to chill.
Prepare the filling
Mix diced beef, potato, swede, and onion in a bowl. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Assemble the pasties
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thick.
Cut into circles (6-7 inches across is ideal).
Spoon filling onto one half of each circle, leaving a border. Add a small knob of butter on top of the filling if using.
Fold the other half over to create a half-moon. Seal edges by pressing with a fork or crimping traditionally.
Brush with beaten egg for that golden finish.
Air fry
Lightly grease the air fryer basket or line with parchment paper.
Place 2–3 pasties at a time in the basket (don’t overcrowd).
Air fry at 180°C (350°F) for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Turn halfway if needed for even browning.
Variations & Tips
Vegetarian version:
Swap beef for mushrooms, lentils, or even cheese and leeks.
Freeze uncooked pasties
for a quick meal later. Just air fry from frozen, adding 5–7 extra minutes.
Crimp like a Cornish pro:
Fold the edge over and pinch firmly to create that signature rope-like edge.
Serve with:
A mug of hot tea or cider
Side salad or steamed greens
A dab of HP sauce or mustard for dipping