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 bell peppers, diced; 1 cup sweet corn kernels; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced; 1 large egg; ½ cup cold water

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making these Super Bowl Veggie Empanadas for game day! They are a fantastic way to enjoy a meat-free option that is packed with flavor. When I first experimented with this recipe, I was amazed at how the combination of spices and fresh vegetables wrapped in a crispy pastry creates such a satisfying bite. Whether you’re hosting friends or indulging in a cozy night in, these empanadas will surely be a hit at your Super Bowl gathering. Let’s dive into making these delicious morsels together!

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-11T23:49:13.600Z

When I first laid eyes on these empanadas, I knew I was onto something magical. The aroma of cumin and the vibrant colors of bell peppers and corn waft through my kitchen, teasing my senses. Each bite reveals a burst of flavor, and I can't help but feel proud serving them at any gathering, especially during the Super Bowl.

The key to perfecting these empanadas lies in not overstuffing them. This way, the pastry crisps beautifully and doesn’t get soggy, allowing the filling to shine. Serve them with a zesty dipping sauce, and they will disappear in no time!

        Why You'll Love These Empanadas
        Bursting with colorful veggies that add nutrition and flavor
Crispy on the outside, soft and savory on the inside
Perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in with friends

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh, colorful vegetables not only enhances the flavor of these empanadas but also adds a nutritional punch. For the best results, opt for ripe bell peppers and sweet corn; their natural sweetness balances the savory spices beautifully. If you have access to farmers' markets or local produce stands, that's the best place to pick these ingredients. The fresher they are, the more vibrant and appealing your empanadas will be.

In addition, fresh garlic and onion contribute depth to the filling. When sautéed gently, they caramelize and create a subtle sweetness that enhances the entire flavor profile. Make sure to monitor them closely while cooking over medium heat; you want them tender and translucent, not brown and crispy, which could lead to a bitter taste.

Perfecting the Dough

The empanada dough is a crucial component of this recipe, providing the perfect balance between a flaky exterior and a tender interior. When mixing the flour and butter, aim for a crumbly texture without over-mixing; this ensures that your dough remains light and flakey after baking. If the mixture starts to feel too warm, consider chilling your bowl and utensils in advance to maintain that ideal temperature.

Chilling the dough for 30 minutes isn’t just a suggestion—it’s vital. This resting time allows the gluten in the flour to relax, making it easier to roll out without springing back. Furthermore, the cold butter creates steam when baking, contributing to its beautifully flaky finish. Remember, the dough should be rolled out on a floured surface to prevent sticking, and if it gets too soft, you can always pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes.

Serving and Enjoying

These empanadas can be served warm or at room temperature, making them incredibly versatile for gatherings. Once baked to a golden brown, allow them to cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes before serving, as this will help the filling stabilize. Consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or a drizzle of crema for an added layer of flavor—both pair well with the spices in the filling.

If you're planning to serve these empanadas at a Super Bowl party, consider a variety of dipping sauces to enhance the experience. A creamy avocado dip or a zesty salsa can complement the savory seasoned vegetables perfectly. Additionally, they can be made ahead of time; simply assemble and freeze the uncooked empanadas, and bake them directly from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the bake time!

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to get started:

Empanada Filling

1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 cup sweet corn kernels
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Empanada Dough

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
1 large egg
½ cup cold water

Make sure to prep everything before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Let's get cooking!

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg and cold water gradually until the dough comes together.

Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Stir in bell peppers, corn, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Cook for about 5 minutes until veggies are tender. Remove from heat and let cool.

Assemble Empanadas

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into 5-inch circles. Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle, fold over, and crimp the edges to seal.

Bake

Arrange empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with egg wash (beat an egg with a splash of water). Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve

Let the empanadas cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature!

Now, enjoy your delightful empanadas!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or spices!

Common Troubleshooting Tips

One common issue when making empanadas is a leaking filling. To prevent this, make sure not to overfill each empanada; a tablespoon of filling is just right. Also, ensure that the edges are well-sealed—after crimping, you can press them with a fork for an extra secure seal, which helps keep all those delicious juices inside during baking.

Another frequent problem is a tough dough that doesn’t roll out easily. This is often the result of overworking the dough. When mixing ingredients, stop as soon as everything is combined. If you accidentally add too much water, a trick is to incorporate a little more flour to bring it back to a workable consistency.

Making It Your Own

Feel free to get creative with the filling! You can substitute the bell peppers with zucchini or mushrooms, or add black beans for extra protein. These substitutions not only cater to different taste preferences but also allow you to utilize whatever vegetables you have on hand. If you want a spicier kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a pinch of chili powder.

If you’re looking for a vegan version, simply replace the egg in the dough with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and skip the butter for a vegan alternative. Coconut oil or a plant-based butter can work wonders while maintaining that flaky texture.

Storage and Reheating Recommendations

These empanadas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them an excellent option for meal prepping or post-game snacks. To keep them crisp, avoid stacking them directly on top of each other; use parchment paper to separate layers if needed.

For reheating, the best method is to use an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until they are heated through and the crust regains its crispiness. If you're short on time, a microwave will work in a pinch, but the pastry may lose its texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead and keep it refrigerated until you're ready to use it.

→ How can I freeze empanadas?

You can freeze the assembled, uncooked empanadas. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.

→ What dipping sauce goes well with these empanadas?

A creamy avocado dip or a spicy salsa pairs wonderfully with these veggie empanadas.

→ Can I use store-bought dough?

Absolutely! Using store-bought dough can save time, and you can still make delicious empanadas.