Papas rellenas con papas y queso

Papas Rellenas con Papas y Queso are delicious, crispy, stuffed potato croquettes filled with mashed potatoes and cheese. They’re popular in many Latin American countries, particularly in places like Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. Perfect as an appetizer or a main dish!

Here’s a simple and tasty recipe for you to try:

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Papas Rellenas con Papas y Queso (Stuffed Potatoes with Potatoes and Cheese)

Ingredients (Serves 4–6):

• 4 large potatoes (about 1.5 lbs), peeled

• 1/2 cup cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix, shredded)

• 2 tbsp butter

• 1/4 cup milk

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)

• 1/4 tsp onion powder (optional)

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for coating)

• 2 eggs, beaten (for dipping)

• 1 cup bread crumbs (for coating)

• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)

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Instructions:

1. Cook the potatoes:

   • Peel and chop the potatoes into large chunks. Place them in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 15–20 minutes.

   • Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them with a potato masher or a fork.

2. Make the mashed potato filling:

   • Add the butter, milk, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using) to the mashed potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until smooth and creamy.

   • Let the mashed potatoes cool slightly, then fold in the shredded cheese. You want it to be melty and gooey!

3. Shape the papas rellenas:

   • Once the mashed potato mixture is cool enough to handle, take a handful and form a ball (about the size of a golf ball).

   • Flatten the ball slightly in your palm, and place a spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center. Pinch the edges together to seal the cheese inside, then shape it back into a ball or oval. Repeat until all the mixture is used.

4. Coat the papas:

   • Place the flour in a shallow bowl, the beaten eggs in another, and the bread crumbs in a third.

   • Roll each stuffed potato ball first in the flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it with bread crumbs.

5. Fry the papas rellenas:

   • Heat about 1–2 inches of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully drop the papas rellenas into the oil.

   • Fry them in batches for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.

   • Use a slotted spoon to remove the papas and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

6. Serve:

   • Let them cool slightly before serving. These papas rellenas are crispy on the outside, cheesy and creamy on the inside. They’re perfect with a dipping sauce like ketchup, salsa, or garlic mayo.

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Optional Variations:

• Add herbs: You can mix in some finely chopped cilantro or parsley into the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.

• Meat stuffing: For a heartier filling, you could add seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken to the mashed potatoes.

These Papas Rellenas con Papas y Queso make a great snack, appetizer, or even a side dish! Perfect for any cheese lover. Enjoy!