Papa rellena (plural papas rellenas) are a type of stuffed potato croquette popular across various Latin American countries, notably Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Mexico, Colombia, and throughout the Caribbean. The traditional preparation involves forming a mashed potato dough around a savory filling, most commonly seasoned ground beef or shredded meat mixed with onions, olives, hard-boiled eggs, and sometimes raisins.
The filled potato is shaped into a ball or oval, then coated in flour or breadcrumbs and deep-fried until golden brown. Variants in different regions may include the use of local spices, cheeses, or alternative fillings, reflecting local culinary influences.
In Peru, papas rellenas are often served with a salsa criolla, while in the Caribbean, they may appear with a spicier meat mixture.