Few foods offer the perfect balance between comfort and versatility like golden, Cornmeal Cakes Filled with Cheese or Beef Recipe. These hearty creations are enjoyed across Latin America and beyond, known for their flavorful fillings, soft interiors, and satisfying crunch.
Whether served for breakfast, dinner, or as a snack, these corn-based delights are a must-try for anyone who enjoys vibrant, savory foods packed with tradition.
Learn the differences between common corn flours and their uses by checking out this comprehensive guide to masa harina.
If you’re unsure whether to fry or bake them, it’s helpful to know how different types of cornmeal, grits, and polenta behave in cooking. This Healthline comparison provides great insight into their textures and nutrition.
🧀🥩 Cornmeal Cakes Filled with Cheese or Beef Recipe
When it comes to flavor-packed food that hits all the right notes—savory, cheesy, hearty—it’s hard to beat a good Cornmeal Cakes Filled with Cheese or Beef . This beloved Latin-style dish is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to explore regional techniques, fillings, and cultural connections.
These cornmeal cakes can be grilled, fried, or baked, and they make excellent use of pantry staples like ground beef, shredded cheese, and masa harina.
📝 Ingredients You’ll Need for Cornmeal Cakes Filled with Cheese or Beef Recipe
Dough:
- 2 cups precooked cornmeal (like PAN or masa harina)
- 1½ cups warm water
- ½ teaspoon salt
Cheese Filling:
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or queso fresco
Beef Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper
🔪 How to Make Cornmeal Cakes Filled with Cheese or Beef (Step-by-Step)
1. Prepare the Dough
- Combine precooked cornmeal with warm water and salt in a bowl.
- Knead until smooth and let it rest for 5 minutes.
2. Cook the Fillings
- Cheese: No prep needed—just shred and keep cold.
- Beef: Sauté onion and garlic, add beef and cumin. Cook until browned and tender.
3. Assemble the Cakes
- Divide dough into even balls, flatten into discs.
- Add filling in the center, fold and seal.
- Shape gently into thick patties.
4. Cooking Method
- Pan-Fry: Heat oil and cook until both sides are golden brown.
- Bake: 375°F for 15–18 minutes for a lighter version.
🥗 What to Serve with Cornmeal Cakes
Pair your cakes with:
- Fresh salsa verde
- Sautéed black beans
- Creamy avocado slices
- Try a refreshing side like this Italian green salad
📦 How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigerator: Store up to 3 days in airtight container
- Freezer: Freeze uncooked cakes between parchment paper
- Reheat: Use skillet or oven to crisp up again
🌍 Regional Styles of Cornmeal Cakes Filled with Cheese or Beef Recipe
Venezuelan & Colombian Arepas
Soft inside with crispy edges, often filled with cheese.
Salvadoran Pupusas
Thicker cakes stuffed before cooking, traditionally with beans, cheese, or pork.
Mexican Gorditas
Fried, then cut open and stuffed post-cooking.
Curious about how these vary regionally? Check out Saveur’s deep dive into arepas across Latin America.
💡 Tips for the Best Results
- Use precooked cornmeal like PAN for best texture
- Don’t overstuff or the cakes might crack
- Keep your hands wet while shaping for smooth dough handling
Need a classic version? See this classic stuffed cornmeal cakes recipe for an authentic approach.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using raw cornmeal instead of precooked
- Skipping dough resting time
- Overloading the filling
❓ FAQ – Cornmeal Cakes Filled with Cheese or Beef Recipe
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Most cornmeal or masa harina is naturally gluten-free. Just check the label.
What cheese is best for stuffing?
Queso fresco, mozzarella, or Oaxaca cheese melt beautifully and offer rich flavor.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, shape and freeze them uncooked for a quick, ready-to-go meal.
Are they better fried or baked?
Pan-frying gives you that crisp exterior, but baking works great for a lighter version.
🔚 Final Thoughts on This Cornmeal Cakes Filled with Cheese or Beef Recipe
Whether you’re making them for a quick dinner or meal prep, this Cornmeal Cakes Filled with Cheese or Beef Recipe brings together Latin flavor, convenience, and comfort. Try one with a bold cheese filling, then another with seasoned beef—you’ll love both.
Want more stuffed savory ideas? Try this savory crab brulee for a gourmet twist, or explore hearty dishes like this ground beef casserole.
Cornmeal Cakes Filled with Cheese or Beef Recipe
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups precooked cornmeal masa harina or PAN
- 1½ cups warm water
- ½ teaspoon salt
For Cheese Filling:
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella queso blanco, or cheddar
For Beef Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion chopped
- 1 garlic clove minced
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- 👩🍳 InstructionsPrepare the Dough:Mix precooked cornmeal, warm water, and salt in a bowl. Knead until a soft dough forms. Let it rest for 5 minutes.Cook the Fillings:Cheese Option: Shred and set aside.Beef Option: In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add beef, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked.Shape the Cakes:Divide the dough into 6–8 balls. Flatten each into a disc, place the filling in the center, and fold the dough over to seal. Gently flatten into patties.Cook the Cakes:Pan-Fry: Heat a skillet with a small amount of oil over medium heat. Cook each cake for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and crisp.Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place cakes on a baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes.Serve Hot:Enjoy with salsa, avocado slices, black beans, or a fresh salad.
Notes
Tips & Notes
- Wet your hands while shaping the dough to prevent sticking.
- Do not overfill or the cakes may split during cooking.
- Use masa harina or precooked cornmeal only—regular cornmeal won’t work.
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