Jun 09 2026
RestaurantsRumba CubanaPapas Rellenas Recipe

Papas Rellenas Recipe

Inspired by Rumba Cubana
Time1h
Serves4

Homemade Breaded Mashed Potato Filled with Authentic Picadillo Cubano

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Ingredients

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Papas Rellenas Ingredients

Method

Directions

  1. 1

    Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

    Peel and boil the russet potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash them. Stir in butter, milk, and salt until smooth. Allow to cool.

  2. 2

    Make the Picadillo

    In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and green bell pepper; sauté until softened. Stir in tomato sauce, green olives, cumin, oregano, and black pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes until flavors meld. Allow to cool.

  3. 3

    Assemble the Papas Rellenas

    Take a portion of the cooled mashed potatoes and flatten it in your palm. Place a spoonful of picadillo in the center, then mold the potato around the filling to form a ball. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

  4. 4

    Coat and Fry

    Dredge each filled potato ball in beaten eggs, then roll in breadcrumbs to coat. Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the papas rellenas in batches until golden brown on all sides. Drain on paper towels.

  5. 5

    Serve

    Serve hot as an appetizer or main dish, with a side of dipping sauce if desired.

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