Discover the irresistible charm of *Arepa con Queso*, a classic Colombian and Venezuelan dish that brings a cheesy twist to traditional arepas. Made with just six simple ingredients—including pre-cooked cornmeal, creamy butter, and gooey queso fresco or mozzarella—this recipe yields soft, golden discs with a crisp outer crust and a melty, cheesy center. Perfectly simple to prepare in under 35 minutes, these arepas are a versatile treat you can enjoy as a snack, side dish, or stand-alone meal. Whether served warm right off the skillet or paired with toppings like fresh avocado or extra cheese, this recipe promises authentic Latin American comfort food that your whole family will love. Keywords: Arepa recipe, cheese-stuffed arepas, easy arepas, Latin American cuisine, gluten-free arepas.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the harina de maíz precocida and salt.
Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients, mixing with your hands until a soft, smooth dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water; if it's too wet, add more cornmeal.
Knead the dough for a few minutes to ensure all ingredients are well combined and the dough is slightly elastic.
Add 1 tablespoon of butter and the grated cheese to the dough, kneading again until they are fully incorporated.
Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it between the palms of your hands to form a disc about 1/2-inch thick.
Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Place the arepas in the skillet, ensuring they are well spaced to cook evenly. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through.
Once cooked, remove the arepas from the skillet and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
Serve the arepas warm, either as is or with additional toppings like avocado or more cheese.
Calories |
2064 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 111.1 g | 142% | |
| Saturated Fat | 54.9 g | 274% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 17.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 259 mg | 86% | |
| Sodium | 2840 mg | 123% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 197.6 g | 72% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.0 g | 43% | |
| Total Sugars | 8.2 g | ||
| Protein | 57.2 g | 114% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 1209 mg | 93% | |
| Iron | 5.6 mg | 31% | |
| Potassium | 170 mg | 4% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.