Fried Stuffed Potato Balls (Papas Rellenas)

A mashed potato ball, stuffed with seasoned meat and deep fried to perfection. My version of papas rellenas.

📝 Ingredients

• 4 medium-sized potatoes
• 2 tablespoons milk
• Salt to taste
• 8 oz ground chicken or turkey (or beef)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1-2 garlic cloves (minced (optional, based on original instructions))
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs (divided)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (divided)
• 3 eggs
• Oil for frying

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1--- Prepare the Potatoes ---
2. 2Wash, peel, and cube the potatoes evenly.
3. 3Boil until fork-tender, then mash until smooth.
4. 4Mix in milk and salt; the mash should be smooth but stiff.
5. 5Let cool, then chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
6. 6--- Cook the Meat Filling ---
7. 7In a pan, heat oil and brown the ground meat.
8. 8Add finely chopped onions and garlic (use a processor if needed; drain any liquid).
9. 9Season with salt and pepper.
10. 10Cook thoroughly, then let cool and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
11. 11--- Shape the Potato Balls ---
12. 12Line a tray with parchment paper.
13. 13Using a cookie scoop, portion out mashed potato.
14. 14Make a shallow well in the center and add ~2 tsp meat filling.
15. 15Cover the filling with a bit more potato and shape it into a ball.
16. 16Release onto tray and repeat with the rest.
17. 17--- Coat the Balls ---
18. 18Beat the eggs in a bowl.
19. 19Mix half the flour and half the breadcrumbs in another bowl.
20. 20Dip each potato ball in egg, then the flour-crumb mixture.
21. 21Repeat: dip again in egg, then coat with plain breadcrumbs.
22. 22Place back on the tray.
23. 23Use the remaining flour and crumbs as needed.
24. 24Chill balls in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
25. 25--- Fry the Balls ---
26. 26Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pan.
27. 27Fry balls until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side.
28. 28Drain on paper towels.
29. 29Serve hot and enjoy!