Ingredients
Scale
Here’s what you need to create this delightful dish. Feel free to make substitutions based on what you have in your pantry.
- 2 cups pre-cooked cornmeal (such as P.A.N. or Goya)
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or any melty cheese you love)
- 1/4 cup butter, divided
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated parmesan for an extra cheesy kick
For those days when you’re running low on supplies, you can swap in cheddar or even a blend of whatever cheeses you have on hand. The joy of home cooking is making it work with what you’ve got!
Instructions
Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make Arepas con Queso step by step.
- In a large bowl, mix the cornmeal, salt, and warm water. Stir with a spoon, then use your hands to knead until you have a smooth dough. This usually takes about 3 minutes.
- Add shredded mozzarella into the dough, kneading until well incorporated. This is where I often find my kids sneaking little cheese bites—totally fine by me!
- Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten into a disc about 1/2 inch thick. If the dough feels too sticky, a little dusting of cornmeal can help.
- Heat a tablespoon of butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the arepas in batches, cooking until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Transfer the cooked arepas to a baking sheet and keep warm in a low oven (200°F) while you finish the rest.
- For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle grated parmesan over the hot arepas just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: Arepas con Queso, recipe, cooking, food
