Plátanos Maduros Horneados con Queso
Sweet, ripe plantains baked until tender and then filled with melted cheese. A popular side dish or appetizer that balances sweet and savory flavors.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 large Ripe plantains(skin should be mostly black)
- 2 tablespoons Butter(melted)
- 1.5 cups White cheese (like Queso Blanco or Mozzarella)(grated)
- 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon(optional, for dusting)
- for serving Sour cream or Lizano sauce
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Peel the ripe plantains. Make a lengthwise slit down the middle of each plantain, being careful not to cut all the way through.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Place the plantains on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the cut sides with melted butter. Lightly dust with cinnamon, if using.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 4
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the plantains are soft and slightly caramelized. Flip them over and bake for another 10 minutes until golden brown.
⏱️ 30-35 minutes - 5
Remove from oven. Gently open the slit further and generously fill with grated cheese.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 6
Return to the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 7
Serve warm, drizzled with sour cream or Lizano sauce, if desired.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure plantains are very ripe (black skin) for maximum sweetness.
- ✓If cheese doesn't melt quickly, you can briefly broil the plantains.
- ✓Queso Blanco is a traditional Costa Rican cheese, but mozzarella or a mild cheddar works well.
🔄 Variations
- Add a sprinkle of brown sugar before baking for extra caramelization.
- Stuff with a small amount of cooked shredded chicken or pork.