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 diced bell peppers; 1 cup diced onions; 1 cup chopped spinach; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced; 1/4 cup cold water; 1 egg (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Party Ideas

I love making Super Bowl Veggie Empanadas as a fun twist to our game day snacks. They’re packed with a savory filling of colorful vegetables and spices, all wrapped in a crispy pastry. Preparing these empanadas not only fills the room with mouth-watering scents but also allows everyone to enjoy a hearty option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Just the right balance between crunch and tenderness makes these empanadas a winning choice for any Super Bowl gathering or celebration, keeping our spirits high as we cheer for our favorite team!

Created by

Adriana Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:35:35.297Z

Making Super Bowl Veggie Empanadas has become a cherished tradition in our household. It all began when I wanted to find a healthier alternative to the typical game day snacks. After experimenting with different fillings and seasoning blends, I discovered that a mix of bell peppers, onions, and spices made the perfect stuffing. I love how these empanadas bring a burst of flavor in every bite!

One key tip I've learned is to let the empanadas rest for a few minutes after baking. This not only helps the flavors meld but also makes them easier to eat without falling apart. Trust me, with the crispy crust and vibrant filling, they’ll be the star of your Super Bowl spread!

        Why You Will Love These Empanadas
        Packed with colorful, nutritious veggies
Crispy pastry that holds a delightful filling
Perfectly spiced for game day excitement

      

Mastering the Dough

The dough is a crucial element in empanadas; it needs to be flaky yet sturdy enough to hold the filling. When mixing the butter and flour, aim for a crumbly texture resembling coarse crumbs before adding the cold water. This ensures your pastry will achieve that perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness during baking. If your dough seems too dry, add a teaspoon of cold water at a time. Be careful not to over-knead, as this can lead to tough pastry.

Chilling the dough for 30 minutes is not just a suggestion. This step allows the gluten to relax, leading to a more manageable dough that rolls out easily. If you have extra time, you can refrigerate the dough for up to a few hours or even overnight. When rolling out the dough, aim for about an eighth of an inch thick to ensure an ideal texture after baking. Use a round cutter or bowl to cut your circles for consistent sizing.

Filling Flavor Enhancements

The filling of these veggie empanadas is where you can get creative. While the base of bell peppers and spinach offers great flavor and nutrition, feel free to toss in other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even sweet corn. Sautéing the vegetables until they're soft not only enhances their flavor but also reduces excess moisture, preventing soggy empanadas. Cooking the filling for just 5–7 minutes should create a lovely blend of colorful, tender veggies bursting with spices.

Consider adding fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness. If you're looking for added heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can turn up the flavor profile. Don’t forget, you can also experiment with cheese, like feta or mozzarella, which can provide a wonderful creaminess to contrast the crunchy pastry.

Baking Tips and Variations

Achieving the perfect golden brown crust is a sign that your empanadas are ready to come out of the oven. Keep an eye on them and aim for baking time between 20 and 25 minutes at 375°F (190°C). If you find that the tops are browning too quickly, you can loosely cover them with aluminum foil for the last few minutes of baking. The end result should be a beautifully crispy exterior that gives way to a warm, flavorful filling.

For a fun twist, consider making mini empanadas for bite-sized party snacks—just reduce the size of the dough circles to about 3 inches. These bite-sized empanadas make excellent appetizers and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces such as salsa, guacamole, or a tangy yogurt-based sauce. Additionally, these empanadas can be made ahead of time; simply freeze them before baking, and when you're ready, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Ingredients

For the Filling

1 cup diced bell peppers
1 cup diced onions
1 cup chopped spinach
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dough

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

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the flour and butter until crumbly. Gradually add cold water and knead until smooth. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic for 2-3 minutes, then add bell peppers and spinach. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until veggies are soft and set aside to cool.

Assemble the Empanadas

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and cut into circles. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle, fold the dough over, and press the edges to seal. Brush with egg wash.

Bake

Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling. These empanadas can also be made ahead of time and frozen before baking.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover empanadas, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, a quick bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes will restore their crispiness. Avoid using the microwave, as it tends to make the pastry chewy rather than crispy. Freezing is also an option; these empanadas freeze well for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring to an airtight container.

To reheat frozen empanadas, bake them directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until fully heated and the crust is golden. If you're looking to prep in advance for game day, making and freezing them is a great time-saver, ensuring you have a flavorful snack ready at a moment's notice.

Healthier Options

These veggie empanadas can easily accommodate various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to add a binding agent like xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t already include it, as this helps maintain the structure of the pastry. Additionally, you can swap the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for a vegan version.

If you're looking to boost nutrition further, consider adding more superfoods to the filling. Chopped kale or quinoa can add extra fiber and protein and make the filling even more filling. Play around with spices like turmeric or nutritional yeast for added flavor and health benefits without increasing calories.

Serving Suggestions

Super Bowl Veggie Empanadas are versatile and can be served alongside a variety of dips. A classic salsa or guacamole adds freshness, while a creamy dipping sauce can balance the spices in the filing. You could also serve them on a platter with pickled jalapeños or sliced avocados to bring an additional layer of flavor and dressiness to your snack spread.

For more substantial meal options, consider serving these empanadas with a side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. This combination balances the hearty empanadas with fresh crunch, making for a well-rounded meal. I often serve them with a side of black bean salad for an extra protein boost, perfect for fueling up during the game!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What other vegetables can I use in the filling?

Feel free to experiment with vegetables like zucchini, corn, or mushrooms.

→ How do I freeze leftover empanadas?

Allow them to cool completely, then flash freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.

→ Can I bake them instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking is a healthier option and yields deliciously crispy empanadas.