Hearty Mexican Picadillo Recipe: A Taste of Home Goodness

Tender ground beef dances with vibrant Mexican picadillo recipe spices in this hearty classic dish that brings comfort to any table.

Onions and garlic sizzle in the pan, releasing their aromatic magic.

Diced tomatoes and potatoes join the flavorful party, creating a symphony of textures and tastes.

Green olives add a surprising pop of brightness to this traditional meal.

Each bite tells a story of generations of home cooking and culinary love.

Serve this picadillo with warm tortillas or rice for a satisfying dinner that connects you to the heart of Mexican cuisine.

Your family will crave this simple yet incredibly delicious recipe time and again.

Great Sides for Picadillo Dinners

Savor the Flavor Companions: Zesty Beverage Matchups that Elevate Mexican Picadillo

• Refreshing Citrus Margarita: Blend fresh lime juice, tequila, and triple sec to cut through the rich, meaty flavors of the picadillo. The bright, tangy notes will cleanse your palate and complement the dish's spicy undertones.
• Crisp Mexican Lager Pairing: Choose a light, cold cerveza like Modelo or Pacifico to balance the hearty beef and potato mixture. The beer's subtle malt profile and clean finish will cool down the spiciness while enhancing the meal's robust character.
• Cilantro-Infused Agua Fresca: Craft a light, herbaceous drink by blending fresh cilantro, water, and a touch of lime. This cooling beverage will highlight the dish's Mexican roots and provide a refreshing counterpoint to the savory picadillo.
• Bold Red Wine Selection: Select a medium-bodied Tempranillo or Grenache with enough acidity to stand up to the dish's rich flavors. The wine's subtle fruit notes will harmonize beautifully with the beef and spices.

Delicious Twists on Picadillo

• Vegetarian Picadillo: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or finely chopped mushrooms for a meat-free version that maintains the classic flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Mexican Skillet: Swap potatoes with cauliflower or zucchini cubes to reduce carbohydrate content while keeping the authentic spice blend intact.
• Slow Cooker Mexican Comfort: Transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and let simmer on low for 6-8 hours, creating a hands-off approach that develops deeper, richer flavors.
• Gluten-Free Friendly Option: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free and serve with corn tortillas instead of wheat-based alternatives to accommodate gluten-sensitive individuals.

FAQs

• What is picadillo and its origin?

Picadillo is a traditional Latin American dish made with ground meat, vegetables, and spices. It originated in Spain and was brought to Latin American countries, where each region developed its own unique version.

• Is picadillo a main dish or side dish?

Picadillo is versatile and can be served as a main course over rice or as a filling for tacos, empanadas, and other Mexican dishes. It’s hearty and satisfying on its own.

• Can I make picadillo with other meats?

Yes, while ground beef is traditional, you can easily substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork to create different flavor profiles and suit dietary preferences.

• How spicy is Mexican picadillo?

The spice level can be adjusted by controlling the amount of jalapeño or serrano peppers. You can make it mild or add more peppers for extra heat according to your taste preference.

Why Mexican Picadillo Deserves a Spot on Your Table

• Combine all ingredients in a single pan, reducing cleanup time and allowing spices to meld together beautifully, creating a rich, satisfying dish that feels like a culinary masterpiece.
• Enjoy this recipe as a standalone dish over rice, stuffed in tacos, or as a filling for empanadas, providing endless possibilities for creative meal planning that keeps dinner exciting and fresh.
• Ground beef and simple vegetables make this recipe incredibly affordable, delivering maximum flavor and nutrition without breaking the bank, ideal for families seeking economical meal solutions.

Ingredients for Traditional Picadillo

• Ground Beef: A rich and flavorful protein that forms the base of this traditional Mexican dish.
• Potatoes: Hearty root vegetables that add substance and absorb the delicious sauce.
• Tomatoes: Fresh ingredients that create a vibrant sauce and provide natural sweetness.

• Onion, Jalapeño, Serrano Pepper: Spicy and fragrant vegetables that build a complex flavor profile for the Picadillo.
• Garlic: A pungent ingredient that adds depth and traditional Mexican culinary character.

• Paprika, Mexican Oregano, Cumin, Salt, Pepper: Classic spices that provide warmth, earthiness, and authentic Mexican seasoning to the dish.
• Beef Stock: A liquid that helps create a rich and savory sauce while tenderizing the ingredients.
• Olive Oil: A cooking fat that helps sauté the vegetables and create a smooth base for the recipe.

• Lime Juice, Chili Flakes, Hot Sauce: Bright and spicy finishing touches that enhance the overall flavor of the Picadillo.
• Rice, Tortillas: Traditional accompaniments that complement the main dish.

How to Cook Mexican Picadillo

Step 1: Sizzle Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.

• Diced potatoes
• Chopped onion
• Jalapeño
• Optional serrano pepper

Sauté the vegetables for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to soften and become fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Stir in chopped garlic, then add ground beef.

Break up the meat with a wooden spoon while cooking.

Brown the beef for about 5 minutes, ensuring it’s evenly mixed with the vegetables.

The meat doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this point.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Pour in chopped tomatoes and beef stock.

The tomatoes will break down and create a rich, flavorful sauce that helps tenderize the potatoes and blend the ingredients together.

Step 4: Spice It Up

• Paprika
• Mexican oregano
• Cumin
• Salt
• Pepper

Stir everything together and reduce heat to a gentle simmer.

Cover the pan and let it cook for 20 minutes, allowing the potatoes to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the Picadillo over cooked rice or with warm tortillas.

• Sliced peppers
• Chili flakes
• Fresh lime juice
• Your favorite hot sauce

The result is a mouthwatering Mexican classic that brings comfort and excitement to your dinner table.

Best Tips for Flavorful Picadillo

• Dice potatoes into uniform, small cubes to ensure even and quick cooking throughout the dish.
• Adjust jalapeño and serrano pepper quantities based on personal heat tolerance, removing seeds for milder flavor.
• Break ground beef into small crumbles while cooking to prevent large chunks and achieve better texture integration.
• Let the picadillo simmer with lid on to allow spices and ingredients to meld together, creating a more complex taste profile.
• Prepare rice or warm tortillas in advance to make plating faster and enjoy the dish while it's hot and fresh.

How to Save and Reheat Mexican Picadillo

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before storing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Pack picadillo in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air, label with date, and freeze for up to 3 months. Flat storage helps save space and allows faster thawing.
• Place picadillo in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed. Add a splash of beef stock if mixture seems dry.
• Warm picadillo in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a little beef stock or water to prevent sticking. Stir frequently to distribute heat evenly and maintain moisture. Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

Mexican Picadillo Recipe

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4.7 from 23 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Savor Mexican picadillo’s hearty blend of ground beef, potatoes, and aromatic spices that dance across your palate with authentic flavors. This classic dish brings comfort and tradition to your table, inviting you to explore the rich culinary landscape of Mexico.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat:

• 1 pound ground beef

Vegetables:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) yellow potatoes
• 1 medium yellow onion
• 1 jalapeño pepper
• 1 serrano pepper
• 2 large tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic

Spices and Liquids:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3/4 cup (180 milliliters) beef stock
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon Mexican oregano
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt
• Pepper

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Instructions

1. Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, introducing diced potatoes, chopped onion, and jalapeño peppers. Gently sauté the vegetables for approximately 5 minutes until they begin to soften and release their aromatic qualities.
2. Incorporate minced garlic into the vegetable mixture, then add ground beef. Using a wooden spoon, crumble and distribute the meat evenly, browning it for about 5 minutes while ensuring it blends seamlessly with the vegetables.
3. Pour chopped tomatoes and beef stock into the skillet, allowing the tomatoes to disintegrate and create a robust, flavorful liquid that will tenderize the potatoes and enhance the overall dish’s depth.
4. Sprinkle paprika, Mexican oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper across the mixture. Thoroughly integrate the seasonings, reduce heat to a gentle simmer, and cover the skillet. Allow the Picadillo to cook for 20 minutes, enabling the potatoes to become tender and the flavors to harmonize completely.
5. When the Picadillo reaches its peak flavor and consistency, transfer to serving plates. Accompany with steamed rice or warm tortillas, and embellish with additional sliced peppers, chili flakes, fresh lime juice, and optional hot sauce for an extra sensory experience.

Notes

• Swap ground beef with plant-based alternatives like crumbled tofu or lentils for a vegetarian version that maintains authentic Mexican flavor profiles.
• Consider using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes to add more nutrients and create a slightly different textural experience with a subtle sweetness.
• Reduce cooking time for potatoes by pre-boiling or using smaller diced cubes, ensuring they cook faster and remain perfectly tender without becoming mushy.
• Control spice levels by removing jalapeño seeds or substituting with milder green chiles for those with sensitive palates while maintaining the dish’s vibrant character.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg