Super Bowl Veggie Empanadas

Name: Super Bowl Veggie Empanadas
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 24 empanadas
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); 6-8 tablespoons cold water; 1 cup diced bell peppers; 1 cup diced zucchini; 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); 1/2 cup diced onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon coriander; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lime

Highlighted under: Festive Ideas

When I think about the Super Bowl, I can't help but crave snacks that are both delicious and satisfying. These Super Bowl Veggie Empanadas have become a staple in my game-day repertoire. Filled with a colorful mix of vegetables and spices, they are not only tasty but also a healthier option for the big event. I love how easy they are to make ahead of time, allowing me to enjoy the game without stressing over last-minute food prep.

Created by

Verity Langdon

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:57:36.052Z

When I first made these veggie empanadas, I wasn't sure how successful they'd be as a party snack. To my delight, they were a hit! The combination of cumin, coriander, and a hint of lime really brightens up the filling, making each bite a burst of flavor. Plus, using a pre-made dough saves a lot of time without sacrificing quality.

My secret to ensuring the empanadas have the perfect crispiness is pre-baking them slightly before the final bake. This technique allows the crust to get that golden color while keeping the filling warm and flavorful. These empanadas are now a must-have in my Super Bowl spread!

Why You'll Love These Empanadas
Crispy on the outside with a deliciously savory filling
Packed with vibrant and nutritious vegetables
Great for sharing with friends and family during the game

Perfecting the Dough

The dough for these empanadas is essential for achieving the perfect texture. Using chilled butter helps create a flaky crust, while the cold water prevents the dough from becoming overly warm and sticky. If you find the dough too crumbly, add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time, until it holds together. Remember to handle the dough as little as possible to maintain its tenderness, and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes so it can rest and relax.

To roll out the dough, flour your work surface and a rolling pin to prevent sticking. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch for the perfect bite; too thick and they won't cook through well, too thin and they may tear or fail to hold the filling. Use a round cutter or a bowl to cut uniform circles, ensuring they are large enough to hold a generous spoonful of filling without overflowing.

Crafting Flavorful Filling

The filling is where you can really customize these empanadas. The combination of bell peppers, zucchini, corn, onion, and garlic provides a colorful medley of flavors and textures. Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices! Adding smoked paprika or chili powder can introduce a wonderful smoky depth. If you want to increase protein, consider adding black beans or tofu, making it a more satisfying snack for your guests.

When sautéing the vegetables, ensure they are not overcrowded in the pan, which can lead to steaming rather than browning. Sauté on medium heat until the vegetables are softened and begin to caramelize, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Pay attention to their colors changing and developing sweetness. Allow the filling to cool completely before assembling the empanadas, as hot filling could cause the dough to become soggy.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These empanadas can be prepared in advance, making them a convenient option for game day. After baking, let them cool completely before storing. They can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or frozen for up to two months. If freezing, make sure to place parchment paper between individual empanadas to prevent sticking. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.

For serving, consider pairing these empanadas with a zesty sauce for a flavor boost. A simple avocado crema or a spicy salsa can elevate the dish. Arrange them on a platter for sharing, garnished with fresh cilantro or lime wedges to add brightness and appeal. These veggie empanadas are not only a hit during the Super Bowl but are equally enjoyable for any gathering or weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the perfect veggie empanadas:

For the Dough

3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
6-8 tablespoons cold water

For the Filling

1 cup diced bell peppers
1 cup diced zucchini
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
1/2 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lime

Make sure to have these pantry staples on hand for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your empanadas:

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt, and then cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water until the dough just comes together. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Make the Filling

Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add bell peppers, zucchini, and corn, cooking until tender. Stir in cumin, coriander, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to cool.

Assemble the Empanadas

Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into circles. Spoon a small amount of filling onto one half of each circle, fold over, and seal with a fork. Brush the tops with beaten egg.

Bake the Empanadas

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy your homemade veggie empanadas warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some diced jalapeños to the filling. You can also experiment with different vegetables or cheeses based on your preference.

Empanada Variations

While this recipe highlights a vegetable filling, you can get creative by incorporating other ingredients based on your preferences or seasonal availability. Try adding leafy greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition. If you prefer a bit of tang, consider adding feta cheese or crumbled goat cheese to create a creamy contrast to the savory vegetables. Don't hesitate to play around with different spice combinations to match your taste.

For a heartier option, you can introduce proteins. Cooked chicken, beef, or a plant-based meat alternative can be substituted for some or all of the vegetable filling. Just ensure that meat fillings are cooked through before using them, as they won't have the same moisture content as the vegetable filling.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your empanada dough is too dry, it can result in cracking during the rolling phase. Make sure to keep your butter chilled but work the dough minimally, adding water as needed. Conversely, if the dough feels too sticky, lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin. A quick dusting of flour while rolling can help maintain the right consistency without impacting flavor.

When baking, it's crucial to keep an eye on the empanadas in the final minutes. They should achieve a beautiful golden brown, typically around the 20-25 minute mark in the oven, but oven temperatures can vary. If you're unsure, gently lift one with a spatula and check the bottom; it should be crispy and browned, indicating they're ready to be enjoyed.

Enhancing Your Empanadas

To enhance your empanadas' visual appeal, consider sprinkling sesame seeds or finely chopped herbs on top after brushing them with the egg wash. This not only adds texture but also boosts flavor. The egg wash contributes to that beautiful golden finish while keeping the surface crisp as they bake.

Pairing empanadas with a refreshing salad can make for a balanced meal. A simple mixed greens salad with a citrus vinaigrette can complement the richness of the fillings. Alternatively, a side of pickled vegetables provides a perfect tangy contrast that enhances every bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the empanadas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance and freeze them. Bake them directly from the freezer when you're ready to serve.

→ What kind of dipping sauce goes well with these empanadas?

Salsa, guacamole, or a tangy avocado crema pair perfectly with these veggie empanadas.

→ Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, using store-bought dough will save time. Look for empanada or pie crust dough in the freezer section.

→ What if I have leftover filling?

Leftover filling can be used in tacos, burritos, or as a topping for salads.