These mini arepas with cheese are soft, cheesy, and perfect for little hands. This easy Venezuelan recipe is naturally gluten-free and great for breakfast, lunchboxes, or snacks.
Mini Arepas with Cheese
New uniforms, check. School supplies, check. Lunchbox menu, check. I am all set and ready for the new school year to begin. My girls, on the other hand, are not so much, but they will get there. Eventually 😉
When it comes to school lunches, I like to keep things simple, balanced, and easy to grab. My rule is one veggie, one fruit, one starch, and something filling. These mini arepas with cheese check all the boxes.
They are soft on the inside, slightly crispy on the outside, and filled with melty cheese that makes every bite irresistible.
Why You’ll Love These Mini Arepas
- Perfect size for kids and lunchboxes
- Made with just a few simple ingredients
- Naturally gluten-free
- Freezer-friendly and easy to reheat
- Customizable with different fillings
In Venezuela, arepas are part of everyday life. I remember buying big ones stuffed with cheese that would melt and ooze out with every bite. Slightly dangerous, definitely worth it.
For my girls, I prefer this mini version. They’re less messy, easier to handle, and perfect for packing in lunchboxes or serving as snacks throughout the day.
You can also switch things up and fill them with ham, shredded chicken, beef, or even avocado. Endless options.
The best part? These arepas only require a few ingredients and can be made ahead of time. Just reheat and go.
On weekends, my girls love using cookie cutters to make fun shapes. One even made unicorn arepas… yes, uni-repas are officially a thing in this house.
Tips for Perfect Mini Arepas
- Use warm water when making the dough for a better texture
- Do not overfill, or they may open while cooking
- Cook on medium heat to avoid burning the outside too fast
- Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in a skillet or toaster
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make mini arepas ahead of time?
Yes! You can refrigerate or freeze them and reheat when ready to eat.
What cheese works best for arepas?
Mozzarella, queso blanco, or any melty cheese works great.
Are arepas gluten-free?
Yes, they are made with pre-cooked cornmeal (masarepa), which is naturally gluten-free.
Can I use other fillings?
Absolutely! Try ham, chicken, beef, or even avocado.
If you try these mini arepas with cheese, tag me @LivingSweetMoments or use #LivingSweet. I love seeing your creations!
Mini Arepas with Cheese
Ingredients
For Mini Arepas
- 1 cup pre-cooked cornmeal (masarepa)
- 1 1/4 cup Water
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 cup Shredded Mexican Cheese optional
Filling
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (for filling)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine water and salt
- Slowly add the cornmeal and mix with your hands until a soft dough forms
- Let the dough rest for 5 minutes
- Divide into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each) and flatten into mini discs
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease
- Cook arepas for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly
- Using a knife, carefully slice open one side to create a pocket
- Fill with shredded cheese and serve warm
Notes
- Do not overwork the dough, or the arepas will become dense.
- If dough cracks, add 1–2 teaspoons of water.
- If too sticky, sprinkle a little more cornmeal.
- Cook on medium heat to avoid burning before the inside cooks.
- These can be made ahead and reheated in a toaster or skillet.
- Dough keeps in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
You may also like these arepas:
Reina Pepiada Arepas (Venezuelan Avocado Chicken Salad)
Gluten Free Crispy Plantain Arepas
Thank you for sharing this!!!! A taste from Venezuela!!! Arepas is our favorite breakfast!!!! When people try arepas they love them, specially kids!!!!
You’re very welcome Ruth! Arepas are a staple in our house and the “mini” version are my kids favorite! Kids at school are always them for extras.
Hi
What does pre-cooked cornmeal mean? I got aunt Jona’s cornmeal. Do I need to cook it before making the dough?
Thanks
Hi Sri, for the recipe you need masa harina or arepa flour. There are many brands that make them. Here are a few examples: https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=masa+harina&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Amasa+harina