Picadillo Recipe

If you’ve never tried picadillo before, you’re in for a treat! This Picadillo Recipe is one of those comforting, homey dishes that feels like a big warm hug on a plate. I love this recipe because it’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and super versatile—you can whip it up for a weekday dinner or even for casual gatherings. The combination of ground beef, warm spices, and tender potatoes just hits the spot every time.

When I first made this picadillo, I was amazed at how all the simple ingredients came together so beautifully. You’ll find that this recipe is not only satisfying but also forgiving if you want to tweak it a bit to your taste. Trust me, once you try this Picadillo Recipe, it’ll become one of your go-to dishes for cozy nights at home.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients in this Picadillo Recipe come together to create a wonderful balance of textures and flavors. Fresh veggies add a natural sweetness and crunch while the ground beef gives it that hearty, satisfying bite.

• Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and is perfect for sautéing the meat and veggies evenly.
• Ground beef (80/20): This fat ratio keeps your picadillo juicy and flavorful without being greasy.
• Yellow onion: Brings a gentle sweetness that softens beautifully when cooked.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic amps up the savory depth—don’t skip it!
• Green bell pepper: Adds a slight bitterness and bright crunch that pairs so well with the meat.
• Large carrot: Grated for a natural sweetness that melts into the sauce.
• Sea salt: Essential for bringing out every flavor here.
• Chili powder: Gives just a hint of warmth and smoky undertones.
• Dried oregano: Adds an earthy herbaceous note that rounds out the spices.
• Cumin: Key to that quintessential Latin flavor you expect in picadillo.
• Cinnamon: A surprise twist that adds subtle warmth and complexity.
• Tomato paste: Deepens color and adds a rich umami boost.
• Chicken stock: Helps create a savory, simmered sauce that ties everything together.
• Russet potato: Adds comforting texture and soaks up all the tasty sauce magic.

Variations

One of the things I love about this Picadillo Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. I often switch up the veggies or spice levels depending on what I have around or what my family is craving. Feel free to experiment!

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: I swapped in turkey once for a leaner version, and it worked beautifully with the spices.
• Vegetarian Picadillo: I’ve replaced beef with textured vegetable protein or lentils for a plant-based twist that’s surprisingly satisfying.
• Spice Level: Add extra chili powder or fresh chopped jalapeños if you want more heat.
• Sweet Potatoes: Switch regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor that pairs well with the cinnamon.

How to Make Picadillo Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Veggies

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the ground beef, diced onion, chopped garlic, green bell pepper, and grated carrot. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks. You want the beef nicely browned and the onion soft, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. This step builds the foundation of flavor, so don’t rush it!

Step 2: Season and Add Tomato Paste

Sprinkle in the sea salt, chili powder, oregano, cumin, and cinnamon, then stir in the tomato paste. Cook everything together for a minute or two, letting the tomato paste caramelize just a bit; this adds a lovely depth and richness to the dish.

Step 3: Add Stock and Potatoes, Then Simmer

Pour in the chicken stock and add the diced potatoes. Give it all a good stir, then turn the heat up until it gently simmers. Once bubbling, reduce heat to medium-low and let it cook uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the sauce thickens. This slow simmer lets all the flavors marry beautifully and the potatoes soak up that incredible sauce.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Serve your picadillo piping hot, either over fluffy cooked rice or wrapped in warm tortillas. I love topping mine with fresh cilantro and some sliced jalapeños for a little kick. These garnishes add brightness and freshness that perfectly balance the rich meat sauce.

How to Serve Picadillo Recipe

Garnishes

I always top picadillo with a handful of freshly chopped cilantro—it adds that fresh herbal pop that brightens up the richness. Sliced jalapeños are my go-to for a little heat, but you can also use pickled onions or avocado slices for creaminess.

Side Dishes

This picadillo is fantastic served with a scoop of fluffy white or yellow rice, or you can warm some corn or flour tortillas for scooping. If I’m feeling extra generous, I add a side of black beans or a fresh green salad to keep things balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For casual dinners, I like serving picadillo in small bowls with all the toppings on the side so everyone can customize their own tacos or rice bowls. At a party, try serving it as a filling for stuffed peppers or baked plantains for a fun twist everyone comments on.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooling the picadillo to room temperature, I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 4 days, making it an easy lunch or dinner option later in the week.

Freezing

I’ve frozen picadillo successfully in portions, using freezer-safe containers or bags. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing, and it’ll keep for up to 3 months. It’s a lifesaver for busy days!

Reheating

To reheat, I thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm gently in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or stock if it looks dry. This helps keep the saucy texture just as delicious as fresh.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Picadillo Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s one of those dishes that rises to the occasion no matter what kind of day you’re having. It’s simple, packed with flavor, and always brings my family to the table smiling. I really hope you give it a try—it’s like sharing a little bit of cozy comfort from my kitchen to yours.

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