Super Bowl Veggie Empanadas

Name: Super Bowl Veggie Empanadas
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 empanadas
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup cold water; 1 cup diced bell peppers; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Super Bowl Veggie Empanadas when game day rolls around. They’ve quickly become a fan-favorite in my household with their crispy golden-brown crust and savory vegetable filling. With just the right balance of spices, these empanadas are perfect for dipping and sharing with friends while cheering for our favorite team. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to prepare, making them an ideal addition to any Super Bowl spread, and you can even make them ahead of time and bake them just before serving.

Created by

Megan Douglas

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:46:15.981Z

When I first made these Super Bowl Veggie Empanadas, I was surprised by how much flavor the vegetables packed into each bite. I experimented with a mix of bell peppers, spinach, and cheese, and I discovered that a little bit of cumin and paprika could elevate the filling tremendously. Watching my friends enjoy them during the game was a true victory!

One helpful tip I found was to chill the filling before assembling the empanadas. This not only makes the filling easier to work with but also prevents the dough from becoming soggy. Trust me, it makes all the difference for that crisp texture we desire!

        Why You'll Love These Empanadas
        Perfectly flaky crust that contrasts with the tender filling
Flavorful combination of vegetables and spices that excite the palate
Great for sharing and a fun finger food for parties

      

Understanding the Dough

The dough for these empanadas is crucial for achieving that flaky, crispy texture that makes them irresistible. Using chilled butter is essential; it creates steam while baking that results in a lighter texture. When mixing, stop as soon as the ingredients come together to avoid overworking the dough, which can lead to toughness. If you find your dough too dry, add a teaspoon of cold water at a time until it reaches the right consistency.

After chilling the dough, it should be pliable but firm. If it's too warm, it may be difficult to roll out without sticking. To prevent this, always work on a floured surface and keep your rolling pin dusted with flour as well. Aim for about 1/8-inch thickness when rolling out; this ensures that the empanadas will cook through without burning. If you prefer a thicker crust, just bear in mind that baking time may slightly increase.

Perfecting the Filling

Choosing the right vegetables for the filling can significantly impact the flavor profile of your empanadas. The bell peppers add sweetness and crunch, while spinach offers a mild earthiness that balances the dish. Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. Just make sure to sauté them until the moisture is reduced to prevent a soggy filling – aim for the mixture to be slightly glossy but not overly wet.

Adding cheese to the filling enhances not only the flavor but also the texture, providing a creamy mouthfeel that complements the crispy crust. If you want a dairy-free option, consider using plant-based cheese or skipping it altogether; just boost the spices slightly to maintain flavor. Taste your filling before assembling! Adjust seasoning as needed; a dash of lemon juice can brighten up the mixture dramatically.

Assembling and Baking Techniques

When assembling your empanadas, it's vital to properly seal the edges to prevent any filling from leaking during baking. I find that using a fork to crimp the edges not only helps ensure a secure seal but also adds a decorative touch. If you want a golden sheen on your empanadas, brush them with an egg wash made from beaten egg before baking. This step will enhance the color and provide a beautiful, glossy finishing touch.

For reheating, leftover empanadas can be baked in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, which helps maintain their crispiness. If you're planning to make these in advance, freeze them before baking. Arrange the uncooked empanadas on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag for longer storage. When ready to bake, there's no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious empanadas.

For the Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup cold water

For the Filling

1 cup diced bell peppers
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have some dipping sauces ready!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your empanadas.

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for 20 minutes.

Make the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced bell peppers for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Stir in the cheese, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, and remove from heat. Allow the mixture to cool.

Assemble the Empanadas

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough and cut into circles (about 4 inches in diameter). Place a spoonful of the filling on one half of each circle, fold the other half over, and seal the edges with a fork.

Bake the Empanadas

Arrange the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your empanadas with your favorite dips!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try adding some herbs like cilantro or parsley to the filling. You can also experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination!

Storage Tips

If you have leftover empanadas, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, keep them covered with foil to prevent drying out, as the crust can become tough if overcooked. Alternatively, for a firmer texture when reheating, use an air fryer, cooking them at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which usually only takes five to seven minutes.

For longer storage, cooked empanadas can be frozen for up to two months. To maintain the best flavor and texture, freeze them individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag after they are fully frozen. When you're ready to eat, you can bake them directly from the freezer; just add five extra minutes to the original baking time.

Serving Suggestions

These empanadas are versatile and can be served with a variety of dips. A tangy chimichurri or a simple avocado salsa can heighten the overall flavor experience. For some heat, consider offering a spicy salsa on the side, complementing the savory filling perfectly. I often set up a dipping station at my Super Bowl gatherings to encourage everyone to mix and match flavors.

Alternatively, serve the empanadas atop a bed of leafy greens for a light dinner option. This adds freshness and balances the richness of the dough and filling. Garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten the dish visually and enhance the flavor profile. These empanadas work wonderfully as a centerpiece for any game-day spread!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve with empanadas?

They pair wonderfully with salsa, guacamole, or a spicy dipping sauce.

→ Can I freeze empanadas before baking?

Absolutely! Assemble them and freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What types of vegetables work well in the filling?

You can use pretty much any vegetable you like! Mushrooms, zucchini, and corn are great options too.