Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

• Peel and cut the potatoes into even chunks.
• Boil the potato chunks in a pot of salted water for about 15 minutes, or until tender.
• Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter and mash until smooth. Allow them to cool slightly before proceeding.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Filling

• Heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add the chopped red onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Add the ground meat, bell pepper, green onions, and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is fully browned and the vegetables are tender.
• Stir in the tomato sauce and season with salt, black pepper, paprika, or Italian seasoning. Remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Potato Dough

• In a bowl, mix the flour and baking powder together.
• Gradually add the flour mixture to the mashed potatoes. Add the egg and chopped parsley and mix until a dough forms.
• If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour until it’s easy to handle.

Step 4: Assemble the Patties

• Divide the potato dough into equal portions (about the size of a golf ball).
• Flatten each portion into a disc and add a spoonful of the meat filling to the center.
• Fold the edges of the potato dough over the filling, sealing it completely. Gently flatten the filled patties into round shapes.

Step 5: Cook the Patties

• Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Cook the patties in batches, ensuring they’re not overcrowded in the pan.
• Fry each patty for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
• Remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Arrange the patties on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
• Serve warm with a side salad, dipping sauces like marinara or garlic aioli, or enjoy them as is.