Arepas con Queso is a traditional Venezuelan dish that offers a delicious combination of flavors and textures. Made with cornmeal dough and filled with melted cheese, these warm, soft pockets are a comfort food loved by many. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Arepas con Queso are incredibly versatile, satisfying, and easy to make.
Originating in Venezuela, arepas are a staple food in many Latin American countries. The beauty of these cheese-filled arepas lies in their simplicity—just a few ingredients come together to create something incredibly delicious. The cornmeal dough is pan-fried to a golden brown, and once split open, it reveals a gooey, melty cheese center. The texture is soft, slightly crispy on the outside, and delightfully cheesy inside.
Not only is Arepas con Queso a dish that’s sure to impress anyone, but it’s also easy to customize. You can experiment with different cheeses, add savory fillings like ham or shredded chicken, or enjoy them as they are with just a sprinkle of salt and a dollop of sour cream. This recipe is perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks, offering a quick yet mouthwatering meal in under 30 minutes.
If you’ve never had an arepa before, this recipe is the perfect introduction to the delicious world of Venezuelan cuisine. The combination of crispy edges and the warm, melty cheese center will make these Arepas con Queso a hit at any meal!
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
There are so many reasons why you’ll fall in love with making Arepas con Queso at home! First, they are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks. The dough is simple to mix, and once you form the arepas, they are pan-fried to a perfect golden brown.
What makes this dish truly irresistible is the deliciously cheesy filling. The cheese melts perfectly inside the arepa, creating a savory and satisfying bite every time. Whether you prefer a mild cheese like mozzarella or a tangy cheese like queso blanco, the cheese melts beautifully and complements the subtle flavor of the cornmeal dough.
Arepas con Queso is also a great meal for families. You can make a big batch and serve them as a meal for the entire family or create smaller versions for snacks or appetizers. Plus, they can be customized to fit your preferences—add extra fillings, experiment with different types of cheese, or enjoy them with a variety of sauces and toppings.
Another reason you’ll love this recipe is its versatility. You can enjoy Arepas con Queso for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. You can even pair them with a fresh salad or avocado for a well-rounded meal. This dish can be as simple or as elaborate as you like, making it the perfect go-to recipe for any occasion.
Finally, making arepas at home allows you to enjoy the authentic taste of Venezuelan cuisine without having to visit a restaurant. The simplicity and richness of Arepas con Queso will have you craving them time and time again!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of pre-cooked cornmeal (such as Masa Harina)
- 1 ½ cups of warm water
- 1 tablespoon of butter (optional)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese (queso blanco, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese)
- Oil for frying (optional, or you can use butter)
Equipment Used
A large mixing bowl is needed to combine the cornmeal, water, and salt to form the dough.
Measuring cups and spoons ensure the correct proportions of ingredients, particularly for water, salt, and cheese.
A non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan works best for cooking the arepas, ensuring they brown evenly and don’t stick to the surface.
A spatula or tongs is perfect for flipping the arepas without damaging them, especially while they are cooking in the skillet.
If you prefer a smoother, uniform dough, you can use a rolling pin to flatten the dough into round discs.
A knife may be needed to cut the arepas in half once they are cooked and ready to be filled with melted cheese.
A serving plate or platter to arrange your arepas once they’re ready, and for serving them hot.
Directions & Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the pre-cooked cornmeal with the salt. Gradually add the warm water and mix with your hands until the dough comes together and is soft and smooth. If you want a richer dough, add butter to the mix. Allow the dough to rest for about 5 minutes.
- Form the Arepas: Divide the dough into small portions, about 6 to 8, depending on the size you prefer. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it into a disk about 1/2 inch thick.
- Fill the Arepas with Cheese: Place a small amount of shredded cheese in the center of each disk. Fold the dough around the cheese to form a pocket. Pinch the edges together to seal the arepas, making sure no cheese escapes during cooking.
- Cook the Arepas: Heat a pan over medium heat and add a bit of oil or butter. Once hot, place the arepas in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. You can also cook them in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes to finish cooking the cheese inside.
- Serve: Remove the arepas from the pan and let them cool slightly before serving. Cut them open to reveal the melted cheese and serve with sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite hot sauce.
Nutritional Information
Each Arepas con Queso (1 serving) is a satisfying meal or snack packed with flavor. Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Potassium: 150mg
- Calcium: 10%
- Iron: 6%
These cheesy arepas provide a good source of carbohydrates and protein, making them a hearty meal. You can adjust the cheese and butter amounts to suit your dietary preferences. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cheese and opt for a non-stick pan to reduce the oil.
Variations
- Add a Savory Filling: In addition to cheese, try adding cooked ham, shredded chicken, or sautéed vegetables to the center for a more filling meal.
- Sweet Arepas: For a dessert twist, fill the arepas with a sweetened cream cheese filling or Nutella.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses pre-cooked cornmeal (make sure it’s labeled gluten-free).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Arepas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the arepas in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a pan or the oven before serving.
Can I freeze Arepas con Queso?
Yes! You can freeze cooked or uncooked arepas. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, cook them straight from frozen in a pan or bake them in the oven.
Can I use any cheese for Arepas con Queso?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! Mozzarella, queso blanco, or cheddar are all great options. A combination of cheeses can also add depth of flavor.
Are Arepas difficult to make?
No! Arepas con Queso are incredibly easy to make. The dough comes together quickly, and cooking them is simple. The hardest part is waiting for them to cool slightly before you take that first cheesy bite!
Pro Tips By Emma
- Smooth Dough: Ensure the dough is soft and smooth before forming the arepas. If it feels too dry, add a bit more water.
- Seal Properly: Be sure to pinch the edges tightly around the cheese to avoid any leakage while cooking.
- Use Room Temperature Cheese: Using cheese at room temperature helps it melt better inside the arepa.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Arepas con Queso with a side of avocado, pickled vegetables, or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal. For a classic pairing, enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee or tropical fruit juice for a perfect Venezuelan-inspired meal!
To make your Arepas con Queso even more delicious, try these tips:
- Add extra fillings like cooked ham, shredded chicken, or sautéed onions for more flavor and texture.
- Use a mix of cheeses such as mozzarella, queso blanco, and cheddar for a richer, creamier filling.
- Top with fresh toppings like avocado slices, sour cream, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra zing.
- Pan-fry with butter instead of oil for a richer, crispier crust.
Arepas con Queso : A Delightful Venezuelan Cheese Arepa Recipe
Arepas con Queso is a traditional Venezuelan dish that offers a delicious combination of flavors and textures. Made with cornmeal dough and filled with melted cheese, these warm, soft pockets are a comfort food loved by many. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Arepas con Queso are incredibly versatile, satisfying, and easy to make. Originating in Venezuela, arepas are a staple food in many Latin American countries. The beauty of these cheese-filled arepas lies in their simplicity—just a few ingredients come together to create something incredibly delicious. The cornmeal dough is pan-fried to a golden brown, and once split open, it reveals a gooey, melty cheese center. The texture is soft, slightly crispy on the outside, and delightfully cheesy inside. Not only is Arepas con Queso a dish that’s sure to impress anyone, but it’s also easy to customize. You can experiment with different cheeses, add savory fillings like ham or shredded chicken, or enjoy them as they are with just a sprinkle of salt and a dollop of sour cream. This recipe is perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks, offering a quick yet mouthwatering meal in under 30 minutes. If you’ve never had an arepa before, this recipe is the perfect introduction to the delicious world of Venezuelan cuisine. The combination of crispy edges and the warm, melty cheese center will make these Arepas con Queso a hit at any meal!Equipment
- A large mixing bowl is needed to combine the cornmeal, water, and salt to form the dough.
- Measuring cups and spoons ensure the correct proportions of ingredients, particularly for water, salt, and cheese.
- A non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan works best for cooking the arepas, ensuring they brown evenly and don’t stick to the surface.
- A spatula or tongs is perfect for flipping the arepas without damaging them, especially while they are cooking in the skillet.
- If you prefer a smoother, uniform dough, you can use a rolling pin to flatten the dough into round discs.
- A knife may be needed to cut the arepas in half once they are cooked and ready to be filled with melted cheese.
- A serving plate or platter to arrange your arepas once they’re ready, and for serving them hot.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of pre-cooked cornmeal such as Masa Harina
- 1 ½ cups of warm water
- 1 tablespoon of butter optional
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese queso blanco, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese
- Oil for frying optional, or you can use butter
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the pre-cooked cornmeal with the salt. Gradually add the warm water and mix with your hands until the dough comes together and is soft and smooth. If you want a richer dough, add butter to the mix. Allow the dough to rest for about 5 minutes.
- Form the Arepas: Divide the dough into small portions, about 6 to 8, depending on the size you prefer. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it into a disk about 1/2 inch thick.
- Fill the Arepas with Cheese: Place a small amount of shredded cheese in the center of each disk. Fold the dough around the cheese to form a pocket. Pinch the edges together to seal the arepas, making sure no cheese escapes during cooking.
- Cook the Arepas: Heat a pan over medium heat and add a bit of oil or butter. Once hot, place the arepas in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. You can also cook them in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes to finish cooking the cheese inside.
- Serve: Remove the arepas from the pan and let them cool slightly before serving. Cut them open to reveal the melted cheese and serve with sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite hot sauce.
Notes
To make your Arepas con Queso even more delicious, try these tips: Add extra fillings like cooked ham, shredded chicken, or sautéed onions for more flavor and texture.
Use a mix of cheeses such as mozzarella, queso blanco, and cheddar for a richer, creamier filling.
Top with fresh toppings like avocado slices, sour cream, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra zing.
Pan-fry with butter instead of oil for a richer, crispier crust.
