Super Bowl Veggie Empanadas

Name: Super Bowl Veggie Empanadas
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 empanadas
Ingredients: 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup corn kernels; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 1/4 cup cold water; 1 egg (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: International Kitchen

I always look forward to game day, and there’s nothing more exciting than serving up delicious Super Bowl Veggie Empanadas. These little pockets of goodness are packed with a savory mix of veggies and spices, making them perfect for snacking while cheering on my favorite team. I love how easy they are to prepare, yet they're sure to impress friends and family. Whether served with a dipping sauce or on their own, these empanadas truly elevate my Super Bowl spread to a whole new level.

Created by

Maribel Hawthorne

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:55:50.466Z

Each time I whip up these empanadas, I can't help but feel a little nostalgic. The combination of sautéed vegetables, spices, and that crisp pastry transports me back to my childhood gatherings where food was always the centerpiece. I was particularly proud when I experimented with a variety of fillings and found that a mix of spinach, bell peppers, and cheese gave the best flavor experience.

The secret to getting the pastry just right is to chill it before assembling. This keeps them flaky and tender, rather than tough. I like to make a double batch so that there's plenty for everyone—you can even freeze some for future game days!

Why You'll Love These Empanadas
Loaded with vibrant vegetables and bold spices
Crispy golden pastry that’s hard to resist
Versatile filling options for every taste preference

Mastering the Dough

The dough for empanadas is a crucial element that will elevate your snack game. When mixing the all-purpose flour and chilled butter, aim for a texture that resembles coarse crumbs—this is vital for achieving that perfect flaky pastry. If the mixture looks too wet or oily, you may need to add a bit more flour to balance it out. Chilling the dough not only helps it hold its shape but also improves the texture, making it easier to roll out later.

I recommend using a pastry cutter or two knives to cut the butter into the flour more efficiently. Once you've wrapped the dough in plastic wrap, try to let it rest for the full 30 minutes in the fridge. During this time, the gluten relaxes, which minimizes shrinkage during baking and ensures that your empanadas maintain their delicious shape when filled.

Getting the Filling Right

The filling is where your empanadas truly shine, and the balance of flavors is key. Sautéing the onions until they're translucent allows their natural sweetness to develop, which pairs beautifully with the spices like cumin and paprika. Be cautious not to overcook the bell peppers, as you want them to retain some crunch for texture contrast. A fun tip: squeezing in a bit of lime juice at the end can brighten the filling and add a refreshing twist that complements the spices wonderfully.

If you're looking for a way to make this dish fit specific dietary needs, consider the cheese's role. While it's optional and adds creaminess, you can swap it for a vegan cheese or leave it out entirely for a lighter version. Additionally, incorporating other veggies like zucchini or mushrooms can diversify the flavor and texture, making your empanadas even more exciting.

Baking Components and Serving Suggestions

Getting the empanadas to a perfect golden brown is both an art and a science. Preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) ensures they bake evenly, while brushing the tops with beaten egg creates a stunning sheen. Keep a close eye on them as they bake, checking around the 20-minute mark to catch that golden color just before it turns too dark. This visual cue will guide you—it’s all about finding that sweet spot for aesthetics and flavor.

For serving, I suggest pairing your empanadas with a zesty dipping sauce like avocado crema or spicy salsa. These contrasts in flavor will enhance the fresh vegetable filling. If you're making these ahead of time, you can freeze them before baking. Just place the assembled, unbaked empanadas in a single layer in the freezer. Once frozen, they can be stored in freezer bags and baked directly from the freezer for a quick gameday snack!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to get started:

Empanada Filling

1 cup spinach, chopped
1 cup bell peppers, diced
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup corn kernels
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Empanada Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1/4 cup cold water
1 egg (for egg wash)

Make sure to have these ingredients on hand to create your scrumptious empanadas!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your empanadas:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour and cubed butter, mixing until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, stirring until the dough forms a ball. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Make the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions until translucent. Add bell peppers and corn, cook for 5 minutes. Stir in spinach, colon, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until spinach is wilted. Optionally, mix in the cheese.

Assemble the Empanadas

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough and cut into circles. Place about a tablespoon of filling on one half of each circle. Fold the dough over and crimp the edges to seal.

Bake

Transfer the empanadas to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg. Bake for about 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy these delicious empanadas while watching the game!

Pro Tips

For a kick of flavor, add jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to the filling. You can also try different vegetables depending on the season—zucchini or mushrooms work wonderfully too.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover empanadas, storing them correctly can preserve their delightful crunch. Let them cool to room temperature, then seal them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for about 3 days. To reheat, I recommend using the oven instead of a microwave, as the latter can cause the pastry to become soggy. Instead, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness.

For longer storage, you can freeze cooked empanadas. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can last up to a month in the freezer. When ready to eat, simply reheat directly from frozen for a quick snack.

Alternative Fillings and Variations

Empanadas are incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative with your fillings! For a protein-packed version, consider adding cooked shredded chicken or black beans. Spicy lovers might enjoy incorporating jalapeños or other peppers. If you’re looking to use seasonal vegetables, think about adding sweet potatoes or roasted butternut squash for a cozy, fall-inspired twist.

For a fusion twist, you can experiment with different spices and herbs. A Mediterranean version with feta cheese, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes or an Asian-inspired filling with cabbage, carrots, and ginger can add an exciting flavor profile that surprises your guests. The key is maintaining a balance between the flavors while ensuring the filling mixture isn't too wet—this will keep your empanadas from getting soggy.

Scaling the Recipe

If you’re planning on serving a large crowd, this empanada recipe is easily scalable. Doubling the filling and dough ingredients should yield enough for about 18-20 empanadas, depending on how large you cut the dough circles. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly if you decide to bake them in batches or if you use smaller baking sheets; you want to ensure they’re evenly cooked without overcrowding the oven.

When scaling up, try to also prepare your filling in batches. This allows you to mix larger quantities without losing the balance of flavors. A good tip for consistent results is to keep the same ratios of veggies and spices as you increase the quantities. This way, your Super Bowl spread remains just as delicious and balanced, even if you are making dozens of empanadas!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought empanada dough?

Yes, store-bought dough can save time, and many brands offer excellent quality.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze them for up to a month.

→ What sauces pair well with these empanadas?

Salsa, guacamole, or a sour cream dip complement the flavors beautifully.

→ Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble and bake.