Super Bowl Party Food Veggie Empanadas
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
I love hosting Super Bowl parties, and these Veggie Empanadas have become my go-to dish. They’re filled with a delightful combination of flavorful veggies and spices, making them a hit with everyone. I appreciate how easy they are to make, and the fact that they can be prepared ahead of time means less stress on game day. Plus, they’re perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces. Trust me, once you try these, you won't want to serve anything else at your next gathering!
When I first attempted these Veggie Empanadas, I wanted a fun, handheld snack that would keep my guests satisfied during the Super Bowl. The blend of roasted vegetables and spices turned out to be the perfect crowd-pleaser. I found that roasting the veggies beforehand adds a depth of flavor that’s often missing from traditional empanada fillings.
An important tip I discovered is to seal the empanadas well; using a fork to crimp the edges ensures none of that delicious filling escapes in the oven. It’s these little details that make all the difference in taste and presentation!
Why You'll Love These Empanadas
- Packed with colorful and nutritious veggies
- Flaky and golden crust that’s irresistible
- Great for a crowd, easy to make in batches
Mastering the Dough
The empanada dough is a crucial part of achieving that delicious bite. Make sure your butter is thoroughly chilled to ensure a flaky crust. If the butter is at room temperature, it won't create those desired layers. When combining the flour and salt, be careful not to overwork the dough; mix just until it holds together. This prevents the crust from becoming tough, resulting in a light, airy texture once baked.
Resting the dough for at least 30 minutes is essential. This step allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out later. I recommend wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. If you're short on time, you can prepare the dough a day in advance; just store it in the fridge. The next day, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before rolling to make it pliable.
Flavorful Filling Tips
The veggie filling not only adds nutrition but also impacts the overall flavor profile of the empanadas. I love using fresh vegetables, and roasting them brings out their natural sweetness. Keep an eye on the roasting time; if the veggies start to brown too quickly, lower the oven temperature slightly to 375°F (190°C). You want them tender, with slightly crispy edges. This contrast adds depth and interest to every bite.
Feel free to customize the filling to suit your taste. If you want to add protein, consider black beans or shredded chicken. For a different flavor, try adding spices like smoked paprika or chili powder to the mix. Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as these flavors can be more potent. Also, if you're experimenting with excess moisture from extra veggies, make sure to drain them well to avoid soggy empanadas!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious empanadas:
Empanada Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 6 tablespoons ice water
Filling
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 cup diced zucchini
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for roasting
Once you have these items, you’re all set to create your empanadas!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your Veggie Empanadas:
Prepare the Dough
In a bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the diced butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
Prepare the Filling
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss bell peppers, zucchini, corn, onion, and garlic with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes or until the veggies are tender and golden.
Assemble the Empanadas
Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into circles (about 4 inches in diameter). Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle.
Bake the Empanadas
Place the empanadas on a greased baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy these delicious empanadas warm with your favorite dipping sauces!
Pro Tips
- For a southwestern twist, consider adding black beans or jalapeños to the filling. Serve with salsa or guacamole for extra flavor!
Make-Ahead and Storage
These veggie empanadas are perfect for making ahead of time, especially for busy game days. After assembling, you can freeze them before baking. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they’re firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to serve, bake them from frozen for an additional 5-10 minutes, until golden brown.
If you have leftovers, store baked empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are warmed through and the crust regains its crispiness. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it tends to make the crust soggy.
Dip and Serve Ideas
These empanadas pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. A zesty salsa or guacamole can add a nice contrast to the savory filling. For a creamy option, try a sour cream or yogurt-based dip mixed with lime juice and cilantro. If you’re feeling adventurous, a spicy aioli can elevate the flavors even more for a kick!
Serving these empanadas as part of a larger spread can also enhance your Super Bowl party. Consider adding a fresh salad or a charcuterie board to round out your menu. This way, your guests can enjoy a variety of textures and flavors, making your gathering a memorable one!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze the empanadas?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked empanadas. Just make sure to place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
→ What can I serve with the empanadas?
Empanadas pair well with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a fresh salad for a full meal.
→ Can I customize the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or even cooked meat if you prefer a heartier empanada.
→ How do I know when the empanadas are done baking?
Look for a golden-brown color on the crust. You can also tap them gently; they should sound hollow.
Super Bowl Party Food Veggie Empanadas
I love hosting Super Bowl parties, and these Veggie Empanadas have become my go-to dish. They’re filled with a delightful combination of flavorful veggies and spices, making them a hit with everyone. I appreciate how easy they are to make, and the fact that they can be prepared ahead of time means less stress on game day. Plus, they’re perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces. Trust me, once you try these, you won't want to serve anything else at your next gathering!
Created by: Adele Summers
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 empanadas
What You'll Need
Empanada Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 6 tablespoons ice water
Filling
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 cup diced zucchini
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for roasting
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the diced butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss bell peppers, zucchini, corn, onion, and garlic with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes or until the veggies are tender and golden.
Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into circles (about 4 inches in diameter). Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle. Fold over and crimp the edges to seal.
Place the empanadas on a greased baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Extra Tips
- For a southwestern twist, consider adding black beans or jalapeños to the filling. Serve with salsa or guacamole for extra flavor!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 31g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 4g