Description
Arepas with Cheese are a beloved Latin American street food, especially popular in Venezuela and Colombia. These golden cornmeal patties are grilled until crispy on the outside, soft inside, and stuffed with melted cheese for the ultimate comfort bite. Perfect as a snack, breakfast, or light dinner!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Dough:
- 2 cups pre-cooked cornmeal (masarepa, such as Harina PAN)
- 2 1/2 cups warm water
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp butter or oil
Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or queso blanco (or cheese of choice)
- Butter, for griddle
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a bowl, combine warm water, salt, and butter. Gradually stir in cornmeal until smooth. Let rest 5 minutes.
- Shape the Arepas: Divide dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each into a ball and flatten into ½-inch thick discs.
- Cook the Arepas: Heat a lightly buttered skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook arepas 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Add the Cheese: Slice each arepa open halfway and stuff generously with cheese. Return to the skillet briefly until cheese melts.
- Serve Hot: Enjoy on their own or with butter, ham, or avocado slices for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 arepa
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg