Authentic Arepas Rellenas Recipe You’ll Crave Again and Again!
If you’re on the hunt for a soul-satisfying, golden, and cheesy bite that transports you straight to the heart of Colombia, you’ve got to try Colombian Stuffed Corn Cakes, traditionally known as Arepas Rellenas. These warm, crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside corn cakes are stuffed with gooey cheese, shredded meats, or even sweet fillings depending on your mood. The best part? They’re naturally gluten-free, super versatile, and surprisingly easy to make at home—even if you’ve never cooked Latin food before.
In this post, we’ll dive into the world of Colombian arepas, how to make them from scratch, why they’re a staple of South American cuisine, and how you can bring this delicious comfort food to your own table. Let’s get cooking!
What Are Colombian Stuffed Corn Cakes?
Colombian Stuffed Corn Cakes, or Arepas Rellenas, are made from precooked cornmeal (masarepa) and traditionally filled with ingredients like cheese, shredded chicken, beef, or black beans. You might think of them as a South American cousin to quesadillas or empanadas, but with a heartier, rustic flair.
They’re crispy on the outside, soft in the middle, and filled with melting goodness that oozes out when you take a bite—absolute heaven!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• ✅ Naturally gluten-free
• ✅ Easy to make with just a few ingredients
• ✅ Family-friendly and customizable
• ✅ Packed with protein and flavor
• ✅ Can be served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a gathering, these arepas will steal the spotlight.
Ingredients for Colombian Stuffed Corn Cakes
For the arepa dough:
• 2 cups pre-cooked cornmeal (masarepa, like PAN brand)
• 2 ½ cups warm water
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp melted butter or oil
For the filling (classic cheesy version):
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or queso blanco
• Optional: cooked shredded chicken, ground beef, or sautéed mushrooms
Optional toppings:
• Guacamole or sliced avocado
• Pickled onions
• Sour cream or crema
• Salsa or ají colombiano
Step-by-Step: How to Make Colombian Stuffed Corn Cakes
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, add the warm water and salt. Slowly whisk in the pre-cooked cornmeal, stirring constantly to prevent clumping. Let the dough rest for 5 minutes to absorb the moisture.
Knead the dough gently until smooth. It should feel soft, pliable, and not sticky. Add a bit more water or cornmeal if needed.
Step 2: Shape the Arepas
Divide the dough into 6-8 equal balls. Flatten each ball into a round disc about ½ inch thick.
Take one disc, add a tablespoon (or more) of cheese or filling in the center, and top with another disc. Seal the edges by gently pinching and reshaping into a thick, round patty.
Pro Tip: You can also fold the dough in half like a taco if you want a quicker version.
Step 3: Cook the Arepas
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with oil or butter. Place the stuffed arepas on the pan and cook for 5–7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
If the arepas are thick, you can finish them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes to ensure the filling is melted.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm with creamy avocado slices, fresh cilantro, and a side of salsa. These pair perfectly with black coffee for breakfast or a light salad for dinner.
Make It Your Way: Variations to Try
One of the most beautiful things about Colombian Stuffed Corn Cakes is their versatility. You can switch up the fillings or even go sweet!
• Breakfast Arepas: Add scrambled eggs and bacon inside
• Vegan Version: Fill with black beans, vegan cheese, and sautéed peppers
• Sweet Arepas: Use panela (brown sugar) and cheese for a dessert twist
Let your creativity flow!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Using the wrong cornmeal: Only use masarepa (pre-cooked cornmeal). Regular cornmeal or masa harina won’t work.
• Overstuffing: Keep fillings moderate to avoid breakage.
• Skipping the rest time: Letting the dough sit ensures better texture.
Healthier Arepas: Can You Make Them Lighter?
Yes! To make a lighter version:
• Use low-fat cheese or skip cheese altogether.
• Bake instead of pan-fry.
• Add veggies like spinach or zucchini into the filling.
This is a great way to enjoy arepas while staying on track with your healthy lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never had Colombian Stuffed Corn Cakes, you’re in for a real treat. These cheesy, crispy pockets of joy are not only a comforting nod to South American culture but also a great canvas for your own personal food creativity.
Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, they bring a festive, homemade feel to any table.
So go ahead—gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and make these delicious arepas rellenas your new favorite comfort food.