If you have leftover mashed potatoes, they would work best for this dish, but otherwise peel and cube your potatoes and cook them in simmering, salted water (1 tablespoon kosher salt per gallon of water) until they are fork tender, about 10 minutes.
Drain potatoes and add in butter and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mash well. Let potatoes cool before using in the recipe.
For filling, add diced onion to a medium skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt and cook until onions are soft.
Add in beef and cook until beef is browned. Drain off any grease that has accumulated and add peppers, garlic, and spices. Continue to cook for a few minutes.
Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper. Let filling cool slightly then mix in grated cheese.
Heat at least a few inches of oil to 350 degrees in a large, sturdy pot.
To make papas, mix an egg into the cool mashed potato mixture.
Then take about ¼-⅓ of a cup of mashed potatoes in your hand and make a small well in the center. Add a few tablespoons of beef filling. Cover with another small amount of potatoes and carefully mold the potatoes around the filling. Have patience and work slowly!
When the potato is formed (it’s okay if some filling is showing), coat it well in all-purpose flour and set aside. Repeat until all filling or potatoes are gone.
When done, deep-fry potatoes at 350 degrees for about 8 minutes until they are a deep golden brown. Work in batches depending on the size of your pan.
Drain potatoes on a paper towel and keep warm in a 250 degree oven.