Vegetarian Empanadas Recipe Easy to Make and Delicious

Empanadas are a beloved snack and meal staple in many cultures, known for their crispy, golden exterior and delicious fillings. If you’re looking to enjoy this classic treat without meat, vegetarian empanadas are the perfect solution.

Packed with vibrant vegetables, aromatic spices, and melted cheese (or vegan alternatives), these empanadas are both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a party appetizer, or a grab-and-go lunch, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Making vegetarian empanadas from scratch is easier than you think. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can customize the filling to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Plus, baking instead of frying keeps them lighter without sacrificing flavor. Ready to dive into a world of crispy, flavorful pockets of goodness?

Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian empanadas recipe brings together the perfect balance of taste, texture, and convenience. The flaky crust is buttery and golden, while the filling bursts with a medley of fresh vegetables and spices that awaken your palate.

It’s a versatile recipe, easily adapted for vegan diets or other dietary needs. You can prepare them ahead of time and freeze for busy days, making meal prep a breeze.

Empanadas are also incredibly fun to make, especially with friends or family. The process of folding and crimping each empanada becomes a joyful activity that adds to the anticipation of the delicious result.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, these vegetarian empanadas will bring a touch of culinary magic to your table.

Ingredients

• For the Dough:
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 egg
• 3/4 cup cold water (plus extra if needed)
• 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider)
• For the Filling:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, diced
• 1 cup cooked corn kernels
• 1 cup cooked black beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese or vegan cheese alternative
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
• 1 egg (for egg wash) or plant-based milk for vegan option

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Pastry cutter or fork
• Rolling pin
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Pastry brush
• Round cutter or bowl (about 5-6 inches diameter) for shaping empanadas

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add wet ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, cold water, and vinegar. Gradually add this to the flour mixture, stirring gently until the dough comes together. If it feels too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time. Form the dough into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Cook the filling: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced bell pepper and mushrooms. Cook for another 5-6 minutes until the vegetables soften.
5. Stir in the corn, black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to blend the flavors. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Using a round cutter or bowl, cut out circles approximately 5-6 inches in diameter.
7. Assemble the empanadas: Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Sprinkle some shredded cheese or vegan cheese on top.
8. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal, then crimp with a fork or fold the edges decoratively to ensure they won’t open during baking.
9. Prepare for baking: Place the empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each with beaten egg or plant-based milk for a golden finish.
10. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the empanadas for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp on the outside.
11. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a vegan version, substitute the butter in the dough with a plant-based margarine and use plant-based milk for the wash. Vegan cheese or mashed avocado also work well for the filling.

Make ahead: You can prepare the empanadas up to the baking step, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding extra baking time.

Experiment with different fillings such as spinach and feta, sweet potato and black bean, or even a spicy potato and pea mix inspired by instant pot vegetarian recipes. The possibilities are endless!

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Vegetarian empanadas are perfect on their own or paired with a variety of sides. Serve with a fresh salad or a tangy avocado salsa to complement the flavors.

For a heartier meal, try them alongside a bowl of low calorie vegetable soup or a creamy dip like our Lipton vegetable dip.

They also make excellent party appetizers—just warm them up and serve with a selection of sauces such as chimichurri, spicy mayo, or a zesty tomato salsa. Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or air fryer for a quick snack anytime.

Conclusion

Making vegetarian empanadas at home is a delightful way to enjoy a classic dish with a fresh, meat-free twist. This recipe offers a perfect blend of crispy dough and a hearty vegetable filling that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, these empanadas bring warmth and flavor to the table with every bite.

Beyond their delicious taste, vegetarian empanadas are versatile and customizable, allowing you to explore different fillings and spices to suit your preferences. They also encourage creativity in the kitchen and make for a fun cooking experience.

For more flavorful and healthy vegetarian recipes, be sure to explore our vegetarian swiss chard recipes or try a sweet finish with our vegetarian date cake recipe.

Enjoy baking, sharing, and savoring these tasty vegetarian empanadas!

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