Homemade Cuban Papas Rellenas with Beef Picadillo

Papas rellenas are mashed potato balls stuffed with flavorful Cuban picadillo! After these are rolled up and chilled for at least two hours, they’re fried till crispy and golden. Crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside - perfect for snacking, as an appetizer, or even a main course!

📝 Ingredients

• Cuban Beef Picadillo
• 2 lbs Russet potatoes (peeled and cut in cubes (~6 potatoes))
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons warm milk (any kind)
• 2 large eggs (whisked)
• 2 cups plain breadcrumbs
• Salt + pepper to taste
• Oil for frying ((high smoke point))

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1In a large saucepan, add water and potatoes. Bring to a boil then reduce heat, cover and cook for 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are fork tender.
2. 2Drain the potatoes then transfer to a large bowl. Mash the potatoes with garlic powder, warm milk, salt and pepper, making sure there are no lumps. Let cool slightly.
3. 3Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so you can place the potato balls as you make them. Using 3-4 tablespoons of the mashed potatoes, make a flat circle in the palm of your hand, about 1/3-inch thick.
4. 4Place 1 heaping tablespoon of the picadillo in the center of the circle. Careful not to overfill or it will burst while frying.
5. 5Using your hands, shape the potato around the picadillo to form a round, smooth ball, making sure it is completely sealed. The filling should be hidden in the middle of the ball covered with the mashed potato. Each potato ball should be between the size of a golf ball and a tennis ball. Place the potato balls on the baking sheet. Repeat until you’ve used all the mashed potatoes.
6. 6In a shallow bowl, place the whisked eggs. In another bowl, place the breadcrumbs. Dip each potato ball in the egg first then roll in the breadcrumbs.
7. 7Repeat the process by dipping the potato ball again in the egg and then again in the breadcrumbs until completely coated.
8. 8Place the potato balls on a baking sheet, cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap or aluminum foil then refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight. If you skip this step, you risk the potato balls falling apart. You may also freeze them at this point for up to 2 months. Just make sure to bring the potato balls to room temperature before frying.
9. 9When you’re ready to fry, heat oil to 350° in a large pot. Fry 1-2 potato balls at a time for about 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Enjoy!