Cheesy Arepa Delight is a tasty treat made from cornmeal, melted cheese, and a hint of seasoning. These soft, warm bites are perfect for breakfast or a snack any time of day!
Who can resist warm cheese oozing from these little corn cakes? I love to dip them in avocado or salsa for an extra kick. Trust me, you’ll want to make these often! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pre-cooked Cornmeal (Masarepa): This is the base for arepas, giving them a unique texture. If you can’t find masarepa, you can try using regular cornmeal, but it may require adjustments in water and cooking time.
Cheese: I love using mozzarella for its melting quality. However, you can substitute with any cheese that melts well, like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick!
Butter or Oil: While butter gives a rich flavor, vegetable oil is a great alternative if you’re looking for a healthier option or if you prefer a vegan method. Both will help create a nice golden crust on the outside.
How Do You Make Sure the Arepas are Soft and Cheesy Inside?
The key to perfect Cheesy Arepa Delight is achieving the right texture and ensuring the cheese melts properly. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your dough is moist but not sticky. Letting it rest helps the cornmeal absorb the water fully.
- When forming your arepas, be gentle with the dough. Sealing the edges well keeps the cheese from leaking out during cooking.
- Don’t rush cooking! Frying the arepas on medium heat allows the outside to get golden brown while the cheese inside melts to perfection.
For best results, cook them one at a time to manage heat and timing. Enjoy experimenting with flavors! 🍽️
Cheesy Arepa Delight
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups pre-cooked cornmeal (masarepa)
- 2 1/2 cups warm water
- 1 tsp salt
For the Cheese Filling:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or any melty cheese)
- 1/2 cup shredded white cheese (like queso fresco or farmer’s cheese)
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp butter or vegetable oil for cooking
- Optional: butter or cream cheese to add inside for extra creaminess
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes for cooking. In no time, you’ll have warm, cheesy arepas ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix Your Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the warm water and salt. Gradually add the pre-cooked cornmeal, stirring it well with your hand or a spoon to avoid lumps. You want to reach a smooth, moist dough. Let it rest for 5 minutes so the cornmeal can soak in the water.
2. Form the Arepas:
Once the dough has rested, divide it into equal portions—about 6 to 8 should do. Take one portion, and flatten it in your palm to make a small disc. This is where the magic happens!
3. Stuff with Cheese:
Add a spoonful of shredded mozzarella and some white cheese into the center of the flattened dough. This is what’s going to make your arepa cheesy and delightful!
4. Seal and Shape:
Carefully fold the dough over the cheese and pinch the edges to seal it well. Gently flatten it back into a disc, about 1/2 inch thick, making sure the cheese stays inside.
5. Cook Them Up:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a little butter or oil. Once it’s hot, place your arepas in the skillet. Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, with melted cheese on the inside.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your cheesy arepas warm right away! You can add a little butter, cream cheese, or your favorite salsa or dip on the side for extra flavor. The choice is yours!
Enjoy your Cheesy Arepa Delight — these soft corn cakes stuffed with gooey cheese are sure to become a favorite!
img src=”https://allhomemadehere.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/cheesy-arepa-delight.webp” alt=””>
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is great for its melting properties, you can use any cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack for added flavor. Feel free to mix and match based on your taste!
What If My Dough Is Too Sticky?
If your dough feels sticky, try adding a little more cornmeal to bring it to a manageable texture. It should be soft but not tacky. Letting it rest for a few minutes can also help absorb excess moisture.
Can I Make the Arepas Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the dough and shape the arepas in advance, then refrigerate them for a few hours or overnight. Just remember to keep them covered to prevent drying out. Cook them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cooked arepas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in a skillet on medium heat or in the microwave, but keep in mind that the skillet will help retain the crispiness!
