Mexican Picadillo

The Comfort of Mexican Picadillo

Ever taken a whiff of something simmering on the stove that instantly makes you feel at home? Mexican Picadillo is that warm hug of a dish that combines savory ground beef, hearty potatoes, and rich tomato sauce. It’s quick to throw together, making it a weeknight favorite for families who want both comfort and convenience on their dinner plate!

Why Make This Recipe

So why add this deliciousness to your meal rotation? For starters, easy cleanup means you can spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying! It’s also super affordable — we’re talking budget-friendly ingredients that won’t break the bank. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that the whole family can enjoy? Trust me, no picky eaters here (well, fingers crossed!).

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Rice, for serving
• Fresh flour tortillas, for serving

Directions

Follow these simple steps to create your own Mexican Picadillo:

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened.
3. Stir in the diced potatoes, tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
5. Serve hot with rice and fresh flour tortillas.

How to Make Mexican Picadillo (Overview)

Creating Mexican Picadillo is as easy as it gets. You start by browning the beef and building your flavor base with onion and garlic. Then, toss in those hearty potatoes and let everything meld together under a cozy lid. Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference! Plus, a good simmer ensures that flavors blend perfectly.

How to Serve Mexican Picadillo

Picture this: a warm scoop of Picadillo ladled over fluffy rice, with fresh tortillas on the side, just waiting to become the perfect wrap. The vibrant colors of the dish pop with rich reds and earthy tones, while the aroma fills your kitchen like a fiesta. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh herbs on top for a touch of freshness!

How to Store Mexican Picadillo

Got leftovers? No worries! Mexican Picadillo keeps for about 3–4 days in the fridge. Just pop it in an airtight container. If you’re looking for longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water to keep it nice and moist!

Tips to Make Mexican Picadillo

• Use leftover beef or even ground turkey for a lighter twist!
• Want a thicker sauce? Let it simmer a bit longer with the lid off.
• Spice it up! Add a pinch of cayenne or jalapeño for some extra kick.

Variation

Feel like mixing things up? You can easily make a vegan version of this dish by swapping ground beef for plant-based meat or lentils. You can also experiment with adding chopped bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor!

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, and the flavors will only get better!

What can I serve with Mexican Picadillo?
Pair it with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How can I make it spicier?
Add more chili powder or throw in some fresh chopped chilies while cooking.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Mexican Picadillo

A comforting dish combining savory ground beef, hearty potatoes, and rich tomato sauce, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 360

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef You can use leftover beef or ground turkey for a lighter version.
• 2 medium potatoes, diced Diced into even pieces to ensure even cooking.
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce Provides the base of the savory sauce.
• 1 onion, chopped Adds flavor and aroma to the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced Toasted for richer flavor.
• 1 tsp cumin Adds warmth and depth to the dish.
• 1 tsp chili powder Adjust to taste for desired spice level.
• Salt and pepper to taste Always season to enhance flavor.

For Serving

• Rice Served hot as a base.
• Fresh flour tortillas Perfect for wrapping the picadillo.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened.

Cooking

1. Stir in the diced potatoes, tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.

Serving

1. Serve hot with rice and fresh flour tortillas.

Notes

For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer with the lid off. Consider adding a pinch of cayenne or jalapeño for extra spice. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for about 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.