Arepas de Queso are soft, golden cornmeal cakes filled with melted cheese, offering a crispy exterior and a tender, cheesy center. A staple in Latin American cuisine, these delicious arepas are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a side dish. Whether served with butter, extra cheese, or your favorite toppings, they are incredibly satisfying and easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy Outside, Gooey Inside – A perfect balance of texture with a cheesy center.
- Quick and Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Naturally Gluten-Free – Made with pre-cooked cornmeal, ideal for gluten-free diets.
- Versatile – Enjoy as a snack, breakfast, or side dish with various fillings.
- Traditional Latin American Flavor – A classic comfort food loved across Colombia and Venezuela.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups pre-cooked cornmeal (masarepa, such as PAN brand)
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or queso blanco
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- Oil or butter for cooking
Directions
- Prepare the dough – In a large bowl, mix the cornmeal and salt. Gradually add the warm water, stirring until combined. Knead for about 2 minutes until a soft, pliable dough forms. Let the dough rest for 5 minutes.
- Shape the arepas – Divide the dough into equal portions and roll them into balls. Flatten each ball into a disc, place a spoonful of shredded cheese in the center, and fold the dough over to seal. Gently flatten into a thick disc.
- Cook the arepas – Heat a pan or griddle over medium heat with a little oil or butter. Cook the arepas for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm – Enjoy with extra butter, cheese, or your favorite toppings.
Servings and Timing
- Servings – 4 servings
- Prep Time – 10 minutes
- Cooking Time – 15 minutes
- Total Time – 25 minutes
- Calories – 220 kcal per serving
Variations
- Extra Cheese – Add more cheese inside or melt some on top after cooking.
- Sweet Version – Mix a little sugar into the dough and serve with honey or jam.
- Savory Additions – Stuff with ham, avocado, or scrambled eggs for a more filling meal.
- Venezuelan-Style – Slice open and fill with shredded beef, black beans, or guacamole.
- Baked Arepas – For a lighter version, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes until golden.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage – Store leftover arepas in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating – Reheat in a skillet over low heat, in an oven at 300°F (150°C), or in an air fryer until warm. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them chewy.
- Freezing – Freeze uncooked arepas on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding extra minutes to the cooking time.
FAQs
What is masarepa, and can I use regular cornmeal?
Masarepa is pre-cooked cornmeal, essential for making authentic arepas. Regular cornmeal won’t work the same way.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes! Try cheddar, gouda, Monterey Jack, or any melty cheese you prefer.
How do I keep my arepas from cracking?
Make sure the dough is moist enough. If it feels dry, add a little more warm water.
Can I grill the arepas instead of pan-frying?
Yes! Cook them on a lightly oiled grill over medium heat until crispy and golden.
How do I know when the arepas are fully cooked?
They should be golden brown and make a hollow sound when tapped.
What can I serve with cheese arepas?
They pair well with butter, avocado, scrambled eggs, black beans, or shredded beef.
Can I make these without cheese?
Absolutely! Plain arepas are just as delicious and can be served with different fillings.
Are arepas the same as pupusas?
No, pupusas (from El Salvador) are thicker and made with a different type of corn flour (masa harina).
How do I make arepas crispier?
Cook them over medium-low heat for a little longer to develop a crispier crust.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dough and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before shaping and cooking.
Conclusion
Cheese Arepas (Arepas de Queso) are a delicious and easy-to-make Latin American classic. With their crispy exterior, soft texture, and melty cheese filling, they’re perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even a light meal. Whether served on their own or paired with your favorite toppings, these arepas are sure to become a household favorite. Try this simple recipe today and enjoy a taste of Latin America!
