Mexican Picadillo

Save this recipe on:

Mexican Picadillo is a dish that hits all the comfort food notes with its cozy, rich, and savory flavors. It features ground beef simmered with tender potatoes, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant spices in one skillet—making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. This hearty meal is as nostalgic as it is delicious, often found in abuelita’s kitchen, feeding the whole family with simple ingredients turned magical.

Whether served over rice, in tacos, or next to warm tortillas, picadillo brings versatility to your table. Each bite is a beautiful balance of savory beef, soft potatoes, and a burst of freshness from tomatoes and herbs. It’s budget-friendly, fast to prepare, and packed with Mexican flavors that satisfy.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For Mexican Picadillo, lean ground beef (85%-90%) works best. It gives you the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness without too much grease. If you go with fattier beef, be sure to drain excess oil after browning.

Ingredients for the Mexican Picadillo

• Ground Beef: The star protein of the dish, giving heartiness and deep flavor.
• Potatoes: Diced small to soak up all the seasonings and stay tender yet intact.
• Tomatoes: Fresh or canned—they bring a touch of acidity and natural sweetness.
• Onion: Adds aromatic depth and sweetness when cooked down.
• Garlic: Essential for that base flavor punch.
• Bell Pepper: Adds a soft crunch and color.
• Spices (Cumin, Oregano, Paprika): The core of that earthy Mexican flavor.
• Tomato Sauce or Paste: To bind it all together into a luscious sauce.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing and adding richness.
• Cilantro (optional): Fresh garnish for herby brightness.

---

How To Make the Mexican Picadillo

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Spices

Toss in the diced tomatoes (or canned), and season with cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to coat the meat.

Step 4: Simmer with Potatoes

Add the diced potatoes and a splash of water or broth. Stir in the tomato sauce. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender and the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once the potatoes are cooked, taste and adjust seasoning. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top and serve hot.

---

Serving and Storing Mexican Picadillo

Mexican Picadillo is fantastic served immediately, but it also stores like a dream. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for 2-3 months. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or water to bring back the saucy texture.

It’s just as flavorful the next day, making it a great meal prep option for lunches and dinners throughout the week.

What to Serve With Mexican Picadillo?

Warm Corn Tortillas

They make a great vessel to scoop up the saucy mix.

Cilantro Lime Rice

A zesty, fluffy contrast to the hearty beef and potatoes.

Refried Beans

For extra protein and classic Mexican comfort.

Fried Plantains

Sweet and savory balance to the spiced meat.

Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

Charred and cheesy, it complements the richness beautifully.

Cabbage Slaw

Adds crunch and freshness to each bite.

Guacamole

Creamy and cooling alongside the spiced filling.

---

Want More Dinner Ideas with Bold Flavors?

If you love this savory Mexican Picadillo, here are a few other hearty and satisfying meals to check out:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a quick, comforting pasta dinner.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta that cooks up fast in one pan.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce when you’re craving creamy, cheesy indulgence.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta with a velvety twist.
• One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta for a smoky, satisfying dinner.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you serve it in tacos or over rice? Did you sneak in extra veggies?

I love hearing how you make these dishes your own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better.

Explore more comforting and flavor-packed recipes on ChefAlchemy’s Pinterest and spice up your dinner rotation!

Print

Save this recipe on: