Super Bowl Veggie Empanadas

Name: Super Bowl Veggie Empanadas
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 empanadas
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 1 egg, lightly beaten; 6-8 tbsp cold water; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn kernels; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Festive Seasonal Food Inspiration

I absolutely love making these Super Bowl Veggie Empanadas for game day! They are the perfect finger food, bursting with flavor and goodness. With a crispy golden crust filled with a mix of colorful vegetables and spices, they quickly become a crowd favorite. Not only are they delicious, but they allow me to pack in some healthy ingredients that I can feel good about serving. Plus, they are easy to make ahead of time, which is a real lifesaver when entertaining guests.

Created by

Rebecca Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:57:34.984Z

Each time I create these empanadas, I experiment with different vegetable combinations, and it's always exciting to discover new flavor profiles. One of my favorite mixes includes spinach, bell peppers, and black beans, seasoned with cumin and a sprinkle of cheese. It’s this variation that brings a delightful twist to the traditional empanada.

What’s interesting about making empanadas is the dough. I prefer using a simple homemade recipe, which gives a fresher taste than store-bought options. A little tip is to chill the dough for at least 15 minutes before rolling it out—this helps achieve that flaky, crisp texture that makes each bite heavenly.

        Why You'll Love These Empanadas
        Bursting with vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients
Crispy texture combined with a savory filling
Perfect for sharing with friends and family during the game

      

The Importance of a Well-Made Dough

The dough is the foundation of these empanadas, and achieving the right texture is crucial. Using chilled butter helps create that flaky, tender crust. Make sure not to overwork the dough; knead it just enough to bring it together before refrigerating. This process allows the gluten to relax, preventing a tough texture. After chilling, it should be pliable but firm enough to hold up to the filling without breaking apart during baking.

If you want a lighter alternative, consider using whole wheat flour in place of all-purpose flour. This substitution adds a nutty flavor and can enhance the nutritional value of your empanadas. Just be ready to adjust the water slightly as whole wheat flour tends to absorb more moisture than all-purpose flour.

Techniques for Flavorful Filling

When sautéing the spinach and bell peppers, don't rush. Cooking them over medium heat allows their natural sweetness to develop, resulting in a rich flavor that enhances the overall filling. This step typically takes about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them soft but not mushy, retaining a little texture that contrasts nicely with the beans and corn.

For an extra kick, you can add chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling. If you prefer a creamier texture, using ricotta or cream cheese instead of shredded cheese can change the character of the empanadas while keeping them rich and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Dough

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1 egg, lightly beaten
6-8 tbsp cold water

For the Filling

1 cup spinach, chopped
1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn kernels
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your delicious empanadas.

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg and enough water to form a dough. Knead briefly, then wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes.

Make the Filling

In a pan, heat a little oil and sauté the spinach and bell peppers until softened. Add black beans, corn, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes, then remove from heat. Stir in cheese if using.

Assemble the Empanadas

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick. Cut out circles (about 4 inches in diameter). Place a spoonful of filling on one half of the circle, fold over, and seal the edges with a fork.

Bake

Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a shiny finish. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Enjoy warm!

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add some chopped jalapeños to the filling. You can also make these empanadas ahead of time, freeze them unbaked, and pop them in the oven straight from the freezer when you're ready to eat.

Make-Ahead Tips

These empanadas are a fantastic make-ahead option for your game day spread. You can prepare the dough and filling a day in advance, keeping both in the refrigerator. To maintain freshness, wrap the dough tightly, and store the filling in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble and proceed with the instructions; just add an extra 5 minutes to the baking time if they go into the oven straight from the fridge.

If you have leftover empanadas, they can be frozen before or after baking. To freeze uncooked empanadas, lay them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to three months. When ready to bake from frozen, no need to thaw—just add about 10 extra minutes to your baking time.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

These veggie empanadas shine on their own but can be elevated with dipping sauces. Consider serving them with a tangy salsa verde or a cool avocado yogurt dip to complement their earthy filling. These sauces not only enhance flavor but also add an extra layer of creativity to your presentation, making them even more appealing to guests.

For a complete game day snack board, pair the empanadas with a variety of sides such as fresh guacamole, crispy tortilla chips, and roasted vegetable skewers. This not only rounds out your menu but also provides a vibrant array of textures and flavors that keep everyone coming back for more.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free flour for the dough?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, though the texture may differ slightly.

→ How do I store leftover empanadas?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ What can I use instead of black beans?

You can substitute black beans with pinto beans, lentils, or minced meat if preferred.

→ Can I make the filling spicy?

Absolutely! Add diced jalapeños, chili powder, or hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick.