Plantains mashed and stuffed with a rich, savory beef filling, loaded with onions, garlic, bell peppers, tomato paste, and spices. And for that bold, creamy kick? We’re using Tillamook sharp cheddar slices full flavor. Rolled up, breaded, and fried until perfectly golden. Crispy on the outside, cheesy and flavorful on the inside. Sweet, savory, creamy… an instant hit.
Add to a pot of boiling water and cook until tender, about 10–15 minutes. Drain and mash.
Add cornmeal and salt to the mashed plantains. Mix until smooth and set aside.
In a skillet, sauté bell pepper, garlic, onion, habanero, fresh thyme, and tomato paste for 2–3 minutes.
Add ground beef along with Worcestershire sauce, allspice, coriander, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 8–10 minutes, breaking up the meat as it browns and allowing the flavors to combine.
Use an ice cream scoop to portion the plantain dough. Flatten each scoop with your hands, pressing a small well in the center.
Spoon the beef filling into the center and top with a piece of Tillamook sharp cheddar (cut each slice into quarters).
Carefully seal the plantain around the filling and roll into a smooth ball.
Dredge each ball in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and coat with panko breadcrumbs.
Fry in oil at 350°F until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and enjoy!
Shop this recipe
Tillamook Sharp Cheddar
Meet the chef
Brandon Gouveia
Chef Brandon Gouveia has gained widespread recognition with partnerships spanning across platforms like Facebook Watch and Buzzfeed’s Cocoa Butter. His influence extends to top food brands, including Our Place and Jack-in-the-Box, earning him a place among the most respected figures in the culinary world. He thrives in creating innovative, non-traditional recipes by fusing ingredients and concepts from scratch, bringing fresh ideas to life in both professional kitchens and digital spaces.
