Name: The Best Colombian Papas Rellenas (Beef Stuffed Potatoes) Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Colombian
Ingredients: 8 Russet Potatoes; Salt To Taste; Water For Boiling the Potatoes; 1 lb Ground Beef; 1 bunch Scallions or Green Onions; 4 Campari Tomatoes; 1 tsp Ground Cumin; 1 tsp Sazon; 2 tbsp Flour; ⅓ cup Heavy Cream; 2 Eggs; ⅛ tsp Salt; Panko Crumbs (Optional); ¼ bunch Fresh Parsley (optional)

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Introduction

Papas Rellenas are a classic Colombian comfort food featuring mashed potatoes stuffed with a savory beef filling. This crispy, golden dish offers a perfect blend of creamy potatoes and flavorful meat, making it a beloved snack or appetizer. It’s easier to make than you might think and sure to impress!

A white plate holds six golden brown fried balls, each with a crispy, breadcrumb-coated exterior. One ball is cut open in the front, showing three layers: a thin golden outside crust, a thick soft white mashed potato layer in the middle, and a filling of dark brown cooked minced meat with bright green chopped herbs inside. There is a small glass bowl with green sauce and a sprig of fresh green herb on the side. The plate is on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 Russet Potatoes
Salt, to taste
Water for boiling the potatoes
1 lb Ground Beef
1 bunch Scallions or Green Onions
4 Campari Tomatoes
1 tsp Ground Cumin
1 tsp Sazon
2 tbsp Flour
⅓ cup Heavy Cream
2 Eggs
⅛ tsp Salt
Panko Crumbs (optional)
¼ bunch Fresh Parsley (optional, for garnish)
Avocado or Vegetable Oil, for frying

Instructions

Step 1: Peel the potatoes and dice them into chunks. Place them in a pot of salted boiling water and cook until tender, about 15 minutes.
Step 2: Drain the potatoes and mash them in the pot while still warm to remove excess water. Whisk to smooth, season with salt to taste, and set aside.
Step 3: Dice the tomatoes and scallions. Heat a skillet with a pinch of avocado oil over medium heat, then add the onions and tomatoes. Cook until caramelized.
Step 4: Add the ground beef, ground cumin, sazon, and salt to the skillet. Stir and cook until the beef is caramelized and fully cooked. Remove from heat.
Step 5: Divide the mashed potatoes into portions about ⅓ to ½ cup each. Flatten each portion into a disc, spoon about two tablespoons of the beef filling onto the center, then carefully fold and seal the potato around the filling, shaping into a ball.
Step 6: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, heavy cream, eggs, and salt to create the batter.
Step 7: Dip each stuffed potato ball into the batter, coating evenly. Optionally, roll them in panko crumbs for extra crunch.
Step 8: Heat avocado or vegetable oil in a deep pan to frying temperature. Fry the potatoes in batches for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy.
Step 9: Remove the fried papas rellenas and drain on a rack. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

If you don’t have sazon, substitute with equal parts paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt for a similar flavor.
For a vegetarian variation, replace the beef with sautéed mushrooms and finely chopped vegetables seasoned similarly.
Using panko crumbs adds a delightful extra crunch, but you can skip them for a lighter version.
Ensure the edges of the potato balls are well sealed to prevent filling from leaking during frying.

Storage

Store any leftover papas rellenas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet over medium heat to retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may make the coating soggy.

How to Serve

A close-up view of six round, golden-brown fried balls on a white plate with a white marbled background. One ball is cut open in the front center, showing three layers: the outside layer is a crispy, golden bread crumb coating; the middle layer is smooth and white, looking like mashed potatoes; the innermost filling is made of brown minced meat and small green herb pieces, all tightly packed inside. The texture of the fried balls is crunchy on the outside and soft inside, with crumbs scattered lightly on the plate. Nearby, there is a small white bowl with a green sauce and a sprig of green herb. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake papas rellenas instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) on a greased baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through. They won’t be as crispy but will be a healthier option.

What is sazon seasoning?

Sazon is a popular Latin seasoning blend that typically includes coriander, cumin, garlic powder, annatto, and salt. It adds a distinctive savory flavor and color to dishes.