Super Bowl Party Food Veggie Empanadas

Name: Super Bowl Party Food Veggie Empanadas
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 empanadas
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup cold water; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love hosting Super Bowl parties, and these veggie empanadas have become a staple at my gatherings. They’re not only delicious but also a great way to cater to both veggie lovers and meat enthusiasts alike. Each empanada is packed with a savory vegetable filling and encased in a flaky, golden crust that’s easy to make. My guests always rave about them, and I enjoy getting creative with different fillings, ensuring they are satisfying and fun to eat during the big game.

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-10T10:55:29.419Z

When I first decided to create a veggie option for my Super Bowl party, I wanted to ensure that the dish was both hearty and delicious. The empanadas quickly became a hit and they’re surprisingly simple to pull together, even for beginners. The combination of sautéed vegetables mixed with spices creates a flavorful filling that pairs perfectly with the flaky dough.

One small trick I found effective is to let the dough rest after mixing; this makes it easier to roll out and helps achieve that perfect flaky texture. I've experimented with various fillings, but a mix of spinach, cheese, and spices always seems to win over my friends and family!

        Why You'll Love These Veggie Empanadas
        Flaky crust that melts in your mouth
Savory vegetable filling for a satisfying bite
Easy to make in large batches for a crowd

      

Mastering the Empanada Dough

The empanada dough is the foundation of this delightful dish, and mastering it is essential for perfect results. The right ratio of flour to butter ensures a flaky texture, while chilling the dough helps prevent the butter from melting before baking. If you're short on time, consider substituting half of the butter with vegetable shortening for an even flakier crust. Roll the dough evenly on a floured surface to avoid uneven thickness, which can lead to inconsistent baking.

It’s important to keep the dough cold throughout the process. Use cold water and chill the wrapped dough for at least 30 minutes. This rest period allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out. If you can, make the dough a day in advance and let it sit in the fridge overnight. The flavors develop more fully, and the dough becomes even easier to work with.

Flavorful Veggie Filling Variations

While the suggested filling is savory and satisfying, feel free to experiment! Adding roasted zucchini or mushrooms can enhance the earthiness of the filling, and incorporating fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can provide an exciting pop of flavor. If you prefer a bit of heat, throw in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of chili powder. Always taste the filling before assembling the empanadas to adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

For a vegan option, simply omit the cheese or substitute it with a plant-based alternative. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy, umami flavor without dairy. You can even add cooked lentils or beans to increase protein content and make the filling heartier. Just ensure not to overfill the empanadas as they will burst while baking, leaving you with a mess instead of golden treasures.

Ingredients

For the Empanada 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 Veggie Filling

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions

Make the Dough

In a bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the cubed butter and mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water until the dough forms.

Wrap in plastic and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until translucent. Add bell peppers, spinach, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook until just tender. If using, stir in cheese. Remove from heat to cool.

Assemble the Empanadas

Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into circles. Place a spoonful of filling in the center, fold over, and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush with an egg wash (1 beaten egg) if desired. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or spices for unique flavors! You can also freeze any uncooked empanadas for a quick snack later on.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These veggie empanadas are fantastic for making ahead of time. Once assembled but unbaked, you can freeze them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for a couple of hours. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe zip-top bag. They can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-7 minutes to the cooking time until golden brown.

If you've baked a batch and have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, avoid the microwave to maintain the flaky crust; instead, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps restore that delightful crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

These empanadas can be served with a variety of dips that elevate the flavor. A fresh avocado crema, made by blending ripe avocados, lime juice, and sour cream, pairs beautifully. You could also whip up a tangy salsa for an extra kick or serve them alongside a light salad for a full meal. The combination not only makes a colorful display but also brings a delicious contrast of textures.

For a more formal touch, consider dusting the finished empanadas with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or fatigue and fresh herbs for enhanced presentation. This not only looks visually appealing but adds a burst of flavor, inviting your guests to dive right in. Don't forget to prepare extra as they tend to disappear quickly during gatherings!

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 other fillings can I use?

You can use any combination of vegetables, beans, or even leftover meats. Just make sure they're cooked and seasoned well.

→ Can these empanadas be baked instead of fried?

Absolutely! Baking is a healthier option and still results in a delicious empanada.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven for best results.