Arepas Con Queso 30 Min Recipe

This post contains helpful tips and tricks! If you’re in a rush, please use the “Jump to Recipe” above!

My easy (but traditional) arepas con queso recipe

Arepas con queso are a popular dish in Latin America, and if you’ve never had one, you’re in for a treat. Think of them like thick corn cakes stuffed with cheese, cooked to crispy perfection on a hot skillet. In recent times, arepas con queso gained even more popularity through Disney’s movie Encanto! The best part? When you bite into one, you get this amazing combination of crispy edges and gooey, melty cheese inside. It’s pure comfort in every bite, and they’re just as great for a quick snack as they are for a full meal, especially when you want something comforting but don’t have the time or energy to spend hours in the kitchen (which as a new mom, it feels like it’s almost every single night). This recipe uses naturally gluten-free ingredients, making it a great option for those with gluten allergies!

Masarepa (precooked cornmeal) gives arepas their distinct texture. I use PAN masarepa. Look for it in the Latin section of your grocery store. Water: Just plain ol’ water to bring it all together. Cheese: I like mozzarella or queso blanco, but feel free to use your favorite melting cheese (Monterrey Jack is another great option). Butter: Adds a lovely flavor and helps get that golden crust. Salt: Don’t forget this! It really brings out all the flavors.

👩🏽‍🍳 Tips for the best arepas con queso

⭐ Avoid using butter for cooking the arepas to prevent burning too quickly. Instead, use a neutral cooking oil. If you want a buttery taste, cook the arepas with oil and add a layer of salted butter after they’re fully cooked.

Lukewarm or warm water is key for activating the masarepa and butter without cooking the cheese. This helps achieve a smooth, pliable dough. Aim for a dough that’s soft but not sticky. If it’s too dry, add water tablespoon by tablespoon. If it’s too wet, a bit more masarepa can help. Let the dough rest for 5 minutes before shaping. For a cheesier version, add a tablespoon of cheese at the center of each dough ball before flattening it into a patty. Remove air pockets before cooking! Cook the arepas on medium heat to allow the inside to warm and the cheese to melt while developing a golden crust without burning.

🍴 How to serve arepas con queso

Serve arepas con queso as a snack or light meal. Enjoy them on their own or with delicious sauces such as guacamole, salsa, or hot sauce. In Colombia, they are commonly eaten for breakfast or as a late-night snack, while in Venezuela, they can be enjoyed throughout the day.

🍴Storage and reheating suggestions

For storing, refrigerate any leftover arepas for 3 to 5 days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat them on a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil until fully warm. When reheating, lightly brush arepas with water to reintroduce moisture, so they are as soft and delicious as when they were first made. To freeze, allow them to cool completely. Then wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and warm them in a skillet, toaster oven, or air fryer until heated through.