High Protein Arepa con Queso

Elevate your breakfast or snack game with these High Protein Arepas con Queso—an irresistible fusion of traditional Latin American comfort food and modern nutritional needs. Made with a blend of pre-cooked white cornmeal and whey protein powder, these golden, crispy arepas pack a protein punch while staying true to their authentic roots. Stuffed with gooey melted cheese like mozzarella or queso blanco, they offer the perfect balance of savory indulgence and wholesome energy. Quick and easy to make in just 35 minutes, these arepas are sealed to perfection and pan-fried for a satisfying crunch. Whether served solo or paired with your favorite toppings, they’re the ultimate high-protein, gluten-free treat for any time of day.

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups pre-cooked white cornmeal (Masa Arepa)
• 0.5 cup whey protein powder
• 2 cups warm water
• 1.5 cups grated cheese (mozzarella or queso blanco)
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

Step 1

In a large bowl, mix the pre-cooked white cornmeal and whey protein powder together until fully combined.

Step 2

Gradually add warm water to the mixture while stirring continuously, making sure there are no lumps.

Step 3

Add salt to the dough and knead it with your hands for about 3-5 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4

Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten to form a disc about 1/2-inch thick.

Step 5

Place a heaping tablespoon of grated cheese in the center of 4 of the discs. Cover with the remaining discs and press the edges well to seal in the cheese.

Step 6

In a non-stick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, place the arepas in the skillet.

Step 7

Cook the arepas for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crisp. The cheese inside should be melted.

Step 8

If necessary, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil when flipping the arepas.

Step 9

Serve the arepas hot, alone or with your choice of toppings or fillings.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	571 grams (571.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	492

Total Fat 30.00g	38%
Saturated Fat 5.30g	27%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 30mg	10%
Sodium 1281mg	56%
Total Carbohydrate 6.00g	2%
Dietary Fiber 0.00g	0%
Total Sugars 2.00g
Protein 48.00g	96%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 200mg	15%
Iron 0mg	1%
Potassium 320mg	7%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 55.6%

Protein: 39.5%

Carbs: 4.9%