Name: Authentic Cuban Beef Picadillo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef (80/20); 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup tomato sauce; 1/3 cup green olives, sliced; 1/4 cup raisins; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 bay leaf; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Cuban Beef Picadillo is the ultimate comfort food—savory, sweet, tangy, and deeply satisfying. This classic Cuban dish is a one-pan wonder that combines ground beef, briny olives, plump raisins, and rich tomato sauce, all simmered together with aromatic spices. Served with fluffy white rice and sweet fried plantains, it’s a heartwarming meal that brings vibrant island flavors right to your dinner table.

Whether you’re craving something cozy for a weeknight dinner or wanting to impress with a taste of Latin flair, Picadillo hits every note. It’s budget-friendly, easy to make, and incredibly versatile. Plus, the leftovers are even better the next day, making it a meal-prep favorite for busy home cooks.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For a rich and juicy flavor, opt for 80/20 ground beef. It has enough fat to stay moist and flavorful without being overly greasy. If you’re watching your fat intake, you can also go for 90/10, but be sure to add a splash of olive oil to help carry the spices and keep everything tender.

Ingredients for the Cuban Beef Picadillo

Ground Beef: The main protein base that soaks up all the flavor from the spices and tomato sauce.

Onion and Garlic: These aromatics form the flavor backbone of any good Picadillo.

Bell Pepper: Adds natural sweetness and color; red is the most traditional.

Tomato Sauce: Rich, savory depth that ties the dish together.

Green Olives: Provide a briny punch that balances the sweetness.

Raisins: A classic sweet contrast that brings out the warmth in the spices.

Bay Leaf & Oregano: Earthy notes that elevate the sauce.

Ground Cumin & Paprika: Essential Cuban spices that give the dish its signature depth.

Salt & Pepper: For seasoning and balance.

Cilantro (optional): A fresh garnish to brighten the dish at the end.

How To Make the Cuban Beef Picadillo

Step 1: Saute the Aromatics

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and saute diced onions, garlic, and red bell pepper until soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until it’s fully browned and no longer pink.

Step 3: Spice it Up

Stir in ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Let the spices toast for a minute to enhance their flavors.

Step 4: Add Sweet and Savory

Mix in the tomato sauce, green olives, and raisins. Stir to combine and let everything simmer for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot over white rice with a side of fried plantains.

Serving and Storing Your Picadillo

Serve your Cuban Beef Picadillo immediately while hot, ideally over a bed of white rice or alongside warm tortillas. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight and reheat in a skillet for best results.