Authentic Cuban Papas Rellenas (Stuffed Potatoes) – A Crispy and Savory Cuban Classic

Cuban Papas Rellenas, or stuffed potatoes, are a beloved comfort food that combines mashed potatoes with a flavorful beef filling (Cuban picadillo), all wrapped up in a crispy golden crust. These delicious, bite-sized snacks are perfect for a party, a casual meal, or whenever you’re craving something hearty and satisfying.

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This recipe brings you an authentic version of this Cuban dish, with perfectly seasoned mashed potatoes enveloping a savory picadillo center. The breaded exterior is deep-fried to golden perfection, creating a crunchy outside that gives way to a soft, flavorful filling. Each bite is a harmonious blend of crispy, creamy, and savory goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Authentic Cuban Flavor: Using traditional Cuban picadillo ensures an authentic taste.
• Perfect Balance of Textures: Crispy on the outside and soft and savory on the inside, these stuffed potatoes are a textural delight.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether you're serving them as a snack, appetizer, or main course, Papas Rellenas are always a crowd-pleaser.

The potatoes are seasoned with garlic powder and butter, giving them a subtle richness that perfectly complements the bold flavors of the Cuban picadillo. The beef picadillo filling is packed with spices, onions, and peppers, providing a flavorful, savory contrast to the mild mashed potatoes. The breadcrumb coating adds a satisfying crunch that makes each bite irresistible.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings):

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 10g
• Sodium: 520mg

These stuffed potatoes are hearty and filling, making them a great option for a satisfying snack or meal. Enjoy them fresh and warm for the best experience.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings:

Papas Rellenas are perfect on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a side of Cuban mojo dipping sauce or a simple garlic aioli. If you're looking for a more complete meal, serve them alongside a fresh salad, black beans and rice, or fried plantains.

For drinks, consider pairing them with a refreshing mojito or a cold beer to balance the richness of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to retain their crispiness. You can also freeze Papas Rellenas after they’ve been cooked. To reheat frozen Papas Rellenas, bake them in the oven at 375°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.

Fun Fact: The Cuban Papas Rellenas Story

Papas Rellenas originated in Cuba as a popular street food snack and quickly became a household favorite. They were designed to be portable and filling, making them a practical choice for Cuban workers needing a hearty snack. The combination of mashed potatoes and beef picadillo filling has since become a beloved flavor combination, enjoyed by many around the world.

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Cooking Tips:

• Keep the Potatoes Dry: Make sure to drain the potatoes well after boiling to avoid adding excess moisture to the mash. This will help the balls hold their shape during frying.
• Chill the Potatoes: For best results, let the mashed potatoes cool completely before shaping them around the picadillo filling. This will make them easier to handle.
• Double-Coat for Extra Crispiness: For a crispier finish, you can dip the stuffed potato balls in the egg and breadcrumb mixture twice before frying.

Optional Variations:

• Cheesy Center: Add a small cube of cheese in the center along with the picadillo for an extra gooey surprise.
• Spicy Twist: For a spicy kick, add finely chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the picadillo filling.
• Baked Version: If you prefer a lighter option, you can bake the stuffed potatoes instead of frying them. Place them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

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Authentic Cuban Papas Rellenas Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 lb Cuban picadillo (prepared)
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• Vegetable oil, for deep frying

Instructions:

1. Boil the Potatoes:In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the peeled and chopped potatoes and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot.
2. Mash the Potatoes:Add the unsalted butter, garlic powder, and salt to the potatoes and mash until smooth. Let the mashed potatoes cool completely before proceeding.
3. Prepare the Filling:While the potatoes cool, prepare your Cuban picadillo or use a pre-made version. Let the picadillo cool before stuffing the potatoes.
4. Shape the Potato Balls:Take about ¼ cup of mashed potatoes and flatten it in the palm of your hand. Place 1 tablespoon of picadillo in the center and gently shape the mashed potatoes around the filling to form a ball. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and picadillo.
5. Bread the Potato Balls:Dip each stuffed potato ball into the beaten eggs, making sure it's fully coated. Then roll it in the breadcrumbs until completely covered. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating a second time.
6. Fry the Papas Rellenas:Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the potato balls in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve and Enjoy:Serve the Papas Rellenas hot with your favorite dipping sauce, or enjoy them plain for an authentic Cuban experience.

These crispy, golden Papas Rellenas are the perfect blend of creamy mashed potatoes and savory beef filling, wrapped up in a deliciously crunchy exterior. Whether you’re making them for a party or just as a treat for yourself, this authentic Cuban recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy!