There’s something truly heartwarming about the aroma of Mexican Beef Picadillo wafting through the kitchen. This dish, with its vibrant colors and rich flavors, has a way of transporting me to the bustling streets of Mexico, where every bite feels like a celebration. Picture this: tender, seasoned ground beef mingling with soft potatoes and a medley of spices, all simmered to perfection in a luscious tomato sauce. It’s not just delicious; it’s the kind of quick, budget-friendly dinner that saves the day on busy weeknights.
When I first stumbled upon this recipe, I was amazed at how such an incredible meal could be made in just 30 minutes. Perfectly paired with warm tortillas or fluffy rice, this delightful dish not only satisfies hungry bellies but also wins hearts around the dinner table. It’s a simple yet flavorful way to break free from the fast-food routine and enjoy a homemade feast that feels special. Let’s dive into making your own Mexican Beef Picadillo—trust me, it’ll become a weeknight favorite in no time!
Why is Mexican Beef Picadillo so loved?
Quick and easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weekdays.
Flavor explosion: The delightful mix of spices combined with savory beef and tender potatoes creates a rich, mouthwatering flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Customizable: Want to switch things up? You can easily substitute ground turkey or add extra veggies to suit your taste.
Budget-friendly: With affordable ingredients and simple prep, it’s an economical choice for feeding the whole family without breaking the bank.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or casual dinner with friends, this dish always brings smiles and satisfied appetites to the table.
Mexican Beef Picadillo Ingredients
For the Base
- Ground Beef – Your main protein source that brings richness; feel free to substitute with ground turkey for a leaner twist.
- Cooking Oil (1 tbsp) – Use avocado or olive oil for sautéing the beef and veggies, helping everything meld beautifully.
- Onion (½ cup, diced) – Adds a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
- Jalapeño – Infuses a mild heat; remove seeds and membrane for less spice, or add more for a kick!
For the Heartiness
- Potatoes (2 cups, diced) – Adds comforting texture and substance; choose Russet or Golden for the best results.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Elevates the overall flavor profile with aromatic notes.
- Tomato Sauce (8 oz) – Forms the base of the sauce, bringing moisture and a lovely acidity to the mix.
- Green Peas (½ cup, frozen) – Introduces a pop of color and sweetness; optional but delightful!
For the Broth and Spice
- Beef Broth (¾ cup) – Enhances the dish’s richness and provides a good simmering liquid.
- Salt (1 tsp) – Essential for enhancing flavors throughout.
- Black Pepper (⅛ tsp) – Adds a subtle heat that rounds out the dish nicely.
- Ground Cumin (1 tsp) – Brings warm, earthy undertones that marry wonderfully with the other spices.
- Paprika (1 tsp) – Contributes a hint of smokiness for depth in flavor.
- Mexican Oregano (2 tsp) – A key herb that embodies the essence of Mexican cuisine.
- Ground Coriander (½ tsp) – Gives a fragrant hint of citrus that brightens the dish.
- Bay Leaf (1) – Infuses an herbal aroma throughout cooking for that homey taste.
Serving Suggestions
- Warm Tortillas – Perfect for scooping up the picadillo, adding a delightful texture.
- Fluffy Rice – Complements the dish beautifully and absorbs all those savory juices.
- Lime Wedges & Fresh Cilantro – A sprinkle of lime and a garnish of cilantro brighten the dish, enhancing its vibrant flavors.
Get ready to whip up a batch of this warm, delicious Mexican Beef Picadillo that will become your family’s favorite!
How to Make Mexican Beef Picadillo
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Heat the Skillet: Begin by warming a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cooking oil and give it a moment to heat up nicely.
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Cook the Beef: Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart as it sizzles for about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease for a cleaner taste.
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Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion, jalapeño, and potatoes into the skillet. Sauté for about 3 minutes, or until the onion softens and turns translucent.
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Incorporate Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic along with salt, black pepper, cumin, paprika, oregano, coriander, and the bay leaf. Cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant and delightful aromas fill your kitchen.
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Add Liquids: Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth, making sure to stir everything together nicely. Return the browned beef and potatoes to the skillet.
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Simmer: Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 12 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and the potatoes to cook through.
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Finish Cooking: Remove the lid and sprinkle in the frozen peas. Continue cooking for another 10 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender and most of the liquid has evaporated, creating a thick sauce.
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Serve: Dish out warm servings of your Mexican Beef Picadillo alongside tortillas or rice, and garnish with fresh lime and cilantro for extra brightness.
Optional: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for a zesty kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Mexican Beef Picadillo?
Creating a well-rounded meal around this flavorful dish can truly elevate your dinner experience.
- Warm Tortillas: Perfect for scooping up the picadillo, adding a satisfying texture and traditional touch.
- Fluffy Rice: Absorbs those delicious juices beautifully, making every bite a flavorful delight.
- Crispy Tostadas: Create a unique twist by topping crisp tostadas with picadillo, lettuce, cheese, and sour cream for a crunchy contrast.
- Sautéed Zucchini: Lightly sautéed zucchini adds a fresh element that complements the hearty flavors of picadillo effortlessly.
- Tangy Cabbage Slaw: A bright cabbage slaw with lime juice brings a crisp, refreshing contrast to the rich meat.
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime enhances the dish’s vibrant flavors and adds a zesty finish that brightens every bite.
- Chilled Mexican Beer: A cold cerveza pairs wonderfully, providing a refreshing complement to the spiced beef.
- Mexican Chocolate Cake: Finish off your meal with a slice of this rich dessert, adding a sweet ending to your savory feast.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices elevate the dish’s richness while adding a delightful texture that balances the flavors.
- Homemade Salsa: A side of zesty salsa offers an explosion of flavors and freshness, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Storage Tips for Mexican Beef Picadillo
Fridge: Store your Mexican Beef Picadillo in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making leftovers delightful!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Be sure to label them for easy identification later.
Reheating: Reheat frozen picadillo in the fridge overnight, then warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot. Stir occasionally for even heating.
Thawing: To thaw, place the frozen picadillo in the fridge for a few hours or overnight before reheating to preserve its delicious flavors and texture.
Expert Tips for Mexican Beef Picadillo
- Mind the Grease: Always drain excess grease after browning the beef for a cleaner, more flavorful dish.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Modify jalapeño quantity based on your heat preference; remove seeds for milder flavor or add more for a kick!
- Moisture Matters: If using ground turkey instead of beef, increase the oil slightly to maintain moisture in your Mexican Beef Picadillo.
- Veggie Boost: Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or carrots; they enhance nutrition and flavor without much extra effort.
- Thicken It Up: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to evaporate some liquid and thicken the sauce.
- Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the lime and cilantro garnish! They brighten the dish and elevate the overall flavor experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Mexican Beef Picadillo preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weekdays! You can prepare the entire picadillo mixture—sautéing the beef, vegetables, and spices—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth if needed for moisture. If you’d like to enjoy the dish within 3 days, it will still taste delicious. Just remember to add the peas during the last few minutes of cooking to keep their vibrant color and texture intact. This make-ahead strategy ensures you’ll have a comforting and hearty meal ready with minimal effort.
Mexican Beef Picadillo Variations
Looking to put your own twist on this classic dish? Let’s explore some exciting options that will elevate your Mexican Beef Picadillo experience!
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Ground Turkey: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a healthier protein source; add a touch more oil for moisture.
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Extra Veggies: Boost nutrition by adding diced bell peppers or carrots; they add color and crunch to your dish.
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Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by including chopped serrano peppers; they pack a flavorful punch that spice lovers will adore.
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Savory Swap: Consider using ground chicken or pork for a different flavor profile that still keeps the dish comforting and delicious.
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Tostada Transformation: Serve the picadillo on crispy tostadas topped with lettuce, cheese, and sour cream for a fun twist!
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Veggie Delight: Make it vegetarian by using lentils or black beans instead of meat, seasoned similarly for a hearty, fulfilling dish.
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Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving for a creamy touch that balances the spices beautifully.
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Herb Enhancement: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley mixed in before serving for a fragrant burst of freshness.
Mexican Beef Picadillo Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe and quality ingredients for my Mexican Beef Picadillo?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose fresh vegetables—look for firm, unblemished potatoes and bright green jalapeños. The beef should be bright red, signaling freshness. If opting for ground turkey, choose a lean version to maintain moisture.
What are the best storage methods for leftover Mexican Beef Picadillo?
Store your homemade picadillo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to deepen, making leftovers even tastier! Just reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze Mexican Beef Picadillo? How?
Very! To freeze, let the picadillo cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. Remember to label the containers with the date for easy identification later!
What should I do if my Mexican Beef Picadillo is too watery?
If your dish ends up too liquidy, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes on the stove. This allows excess liquid to evaporate, thickening the sauce beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Are there dietary considerations for Mexican Beef Picadillo?
Absolutely! It’s quite easy to make this dish gluten-free—just ensure you’re using appropriate gluten-free tortillas and rice. Also, if serving to pets or those with specific allergies, avoid adding seasonings that may not be suitable, and confirm all ingredients meet their dietary needs.
Quick Mexican Beef Picadillo for a Cozy Dinner Night
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the skillet: Warm a large skillet over medium heat. Add cooking oil and let it heat up.
- Cook the beef: Add ground beef, cook until browned (5-7 minutes) and drain excess grease.
- Sauté vegetables: Add onion, jalapeño, and potatoes. Sauté for 3 minutes until onion softens.
- Incorporate garlic and spices: Add minced garlic, salt, pepper, cumin, paprika, oregano, coriander, and bay leaf. Cook for 30 seconds.
- Add liquids: Pour in tomato sauce and beef broth, stirring to combine. Return beef and potatoes to skillet.
- Simmer: Cover and let simmer for 12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Finish cooking: Remove lid, add frozen peas, and cook for another 10 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Serve: Dish out servings with tortillas or rice, garnished with lime and cilantro.