Papa'S Con Queso
Papa's Con Queso features tender mashed potatoes filled with gooey cheese, baked to golden perfection. A comforting, cheesy side ideal for casual gatherings and family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook potatoes until done.
- Mash the potatoes well with butter, cream, salt, and eggs; beat until smooth.
- Shape the mashed potatoes into balls.
- Use the handle of a teaspoon to make a hollow in each potato ball and fill with a cube of cheese.
- Grease each potato ball with a bit of lard, place in a hot oven at 450°F, and brown until golden.
- Serve the potato balls sprinkled with chopped parsley and garnished with slices of tomato.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using sour cream instead of regular cream. If you want a lighter option, you can substitute the butter with olive oil. Make sure to choose small, waxy potatoes for the best results as they hold their shape well after cooking. If you prefer, you can also use shredded cheese instead of cubes for a more melty filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful potato balls as an appetizer or side dish. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad, like Encore Cherry Salad, or a tangy dipping sauce. For a more filling meal, consider serving them alongside grilled meats or a hearty vegetable stew. Garnishing with slices of ripe tomato adds a refreshing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover potato balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy on the outside. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a quicker option, but they may lose some crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Papa'S Con Queso contains roughly 804 calories, with 14g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (59% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 671mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the potato balls in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the potato mixture and shape the balls ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before placing them in the oven for even cooking.
What type of cheese works best for filling?
Cheddar is a classic choice for a rich flavor, but you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a gooey texture or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just ensure the cheese melts well to create that delightful cheesy center.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it uses potatoes, cream, and cheese as the main ingredients. Just make sure to check that the cheese you use is rennet-free if you want a completely vegetarian option.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).