Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mexican Picadillo is a comforting, savory dish made with ground beef, tomatoes, potatoes, and a blend of spices. It’s a versatile staple in Mexican cuisine, perfect as a main dish with rice or as a filling for tacos, empanadas, or stuffed peppers. Its rich, slightly sweet, and mildly spicy flavor profile makes it a family favorite and an easy go-to meal for busy weeknights.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beefpotatoestomatoessmall oniongarlic clovesolive oil or vegetable oiltomato saucelow-sodium beef brothsaltblack pepperground cuminoreganooptional: green peas, raisins, jalapeños or chipotle peppers for added flavor

directions

Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes, then set aside.

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until translucent.

Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked.

Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, mixing well.

Add the potatoes, beef broth, salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano. Stir to combine.

Cover and simmer on low heat for about 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce has thickened.

(Optional) Add peas, raisins, or sliced jalapeños in the last 5 minutes of cooking if using.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves 4–6 people
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Add chopped carrots or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
Include raisins for a sweet-savory contrast.
Spice it up with chipotle or serrano chiles for heat.
Serve over rice, with tortillas, or as a taco filling.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until hot.
Picadillo can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What is Mexican Picadillo made of?
A combination of ground beef, potatoes, tomatoes, and spices, sometimes with peas or raisins added.

Is picadillo spicy?
It’s usually mild, but you can make it spicy by adding jalapeños or chipotle peppers.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the ground meat with lentils or a plant-based alternative.

Can I use canned tomatoes?
Yes, canned diced tomatoes work well if fresh tomatoes are not available.

Can I serve picadillo in tacos?
Absolutely, it makes a delicious filling for tacos, burritos, or empanadas.

Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, it reheats very well and can be made ahead for busy days.

Conclusion

Mexican Picadillo is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s incredibly easy to make and adapt. Whether served over rice, stuffed into tacos, or enjoyed with warm tortillas, it brings warmth and comfort to the table. Try this classic recipe for a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.