Mexican Picadillo Recipe: 7 Heartwarming Comfort Steps

Name: Mexican Picadillo Recipe: 7 Heartwarming Comfort Steps
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 1 cup potatoes, diced; 1/2 cup carrots, diced; 1/2 cup peas; 2 tsp cumin; 1 tsp oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

August 29, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Ah, Mexican picadillo! This dish is a true treasure from my childhood, bursting with flavors that remind me of family gatherings and cozy dinners. It’s a traditional Mexican dish made with ground meat, veggies, and a delightful blend of spices, and I can’t help but feel nostalgic every time I make it. Trust me, the first time I tried picadillo, I was hooked! It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights, this mexican picadillo recipe is quick to whip up and packs a punch with its rich flavors. The best part? You can customize it to your liking, making it a versatile staple in any kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this delicious world of flavors together!

mexican picadillo recipe - detail 1

Ingredients List

1 lb ground beef: Choose a good quality beef with some fat for richer flavor.
1 onion, diced: A sweet onion works wonderfully, adding depth to the dish.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key; it brings that aromatic punch!
1 bell pepper, diced: Any color you like—red, green, or yellow—all add a pop of sweetness.
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz): This adds moisture and tang; opt for no-salt-added if you prefer.
1 cup potatoes, diced: I love using Yukon Gold for their buttery texture when cooked.
1/2 cup carrots, diced: Carrots add a lovely sweetness and a splash of color to the mix.
1/2 cup peas: Fresh or frozen works, and they add a nice burst of freshness.
2 tsp cumin: This spice is essential for that warm, earthy flavor typical in Mexican cuisine.
1 tsp oregano: Dried oregano gives the dish its signature herbaceous note.
Salt and pepper to taste: Always season to your preference; it makes a world of difference!
2 tbsp olive oil: This will help sauté the veggies beautifully without sticking.

How to Prepare Instructions

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. You want that oil shimmering but not smoking!
Once the oil is ready, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Oh, the smell is heavenly!
Next, add in the 1 pound of ground beef. Cook it, breaking it apart with your spatula, until it’s browned all over—this should take around 5-7 minutes. Make sure there’s no pink left!
Now it’s time to stir in the diced bell pepper, can of diced tomatoes, diced potatoes, diced carrots, and peas. Mix everything together well; it’s a colorful medley!
Add the 2 teaspoons of cumin, 1 teaspoon of oregano, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir to ensure the spices coat everything evenly.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This step is crucial—it allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully. Just be sure to check occasionally and stir to prevent sticking!
After 20 minutes, your picadillo should be ready! The vegetables should be tender, and the mixture will look rich and inviting. Serve it hot with rice or warm tortillas. Enjoy every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Flavor-Packed: Each bite is bursting with rich, savory flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with veggies and lean protein, it’s a wholesome meal that feels indulgent without the guilt.
Versatile: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices, making it your own unique creation!
Comfort Food: It’s a warm, hearty dish that evokes memories of family gatherings and traditional celebrations.
One-Pan Wonder: Less mess means more time to enjoy with your loved ones. Just cook, serve, and savor!

Equipment List

Large frying pan: A sturdy pan is essential for cooking the picadillo evenly and allowing for all those delicious flavors to develop.
Knife: A sharp knife is a must-have for chopping your vegetables with ease. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!
Cutting board: Use a good-sized cutting board for all your chopping—keeping your workspace organized is key.
Spatula: A sturdy spatula helps you break up the ground beef and mix everything together beautifully.
Lid: A lid for your frying pan is crucial when simmering the picadillo; it keeps moisture in and helps the veggies cook perfectly.
Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements for spices ensure you get the flavor just right every time!

Ingredient Notes/Substitutions

When it comes to my mexican picadillo recipe, you can absolutely make it your own with some simple substitutions. Here are a few ideas to consider:

Ground Meat: While I love using ground beef for its rich flavor, you can easily swap it out for ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey may be a bit milder, so you might want to add a touch more seasoning!
Vegetables: The beauty of picadillo is its versatility. Feel free to swap in other veggies like zucchini, corn, or even green beans based on what you have on hand. Just be sure to chop them into similar sizes for even cooking.
Potatoes: If you want to cut down on carbs, try using cauliflower instead of potatoes. It’ll give you that nice bulk without all the starch!
Spices: Don’t be afraid to adjust the cumin and oregano to suit your taste. If you like a bit of heat, toss in some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder for a spicy kick!
Olive Oil: If you want to switch things up, avocado oil works beautifully here too—it has a high smoke point and a mild flavor!

Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and finding what you love. So, don’t hesitate to make these changes and create your perfect version of picadillo!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your mexican picadillo recipe turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips that I’ve learned through plenty of delicious trials (and a few errors, too!).

Brown the Meat Well: Don’t rush the browning process! Allow the ground beef to get a nice golden color; this adds depth and richness to the entire dish.
Season as You Go: Taste your picadillo as it cooks! Start with the spices listed, but feel free to adjust them to your liking. A little extra cumin or a dash of smoked paprika can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
Don’t Skip the Simmer: Simmering for the full 20 minutes is crucial. It not only makes the veggies tender but also allows all those fabulous flavors to meld together. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Fresh Herbs for Garnish: Right before serving, sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top. It adds a bright, fresh note that makes the dish pop!
Serve with Something Creamy: Adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of queso fresco on top can bring a wonderful creaminess that balances the savory flavors perfectly.
Make It Ahead: Picadillo tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and save some for later. It’s a fantastic meal prep option that reheats beautifully.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a picadillo that’s bursting with flavor and comfort. Enjoy the process and happy cooking!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up my mexican picadillo recipe and make it your own! Here are some tasty variations to consider:

Different Proteins: Swap out ground beef for ground pork or even shredded chicken for a different flavor profile. Each meat brings its own unique taste to the dish!
Vegetable Medley: Experiment with seasonal veggies! Toss in diced zucchini, corn, or even sweet potatoes for a delightful twist. Just keep an eye on the cooking times so everything gets tender.
Spicy Kick: For those who like it hot, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce while cooking. You could also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Herbs and Spices: Don’t be shy with the spices! Try adding smoked paprika or a touch of cinnamon for a warm, earthy flavor. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also brighten up the dish at the end.
Sweet and Savory: If you want to play with flavors, add some raisins or chopped olives. They’ll give your picadillo a sweet and savory contrast that’s just lovely!
Latin Flair: Mix in some chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky flavor that really amps up the character of the dish. You’ll be amazed at how this small addition can transform it!

These variations can turn your picadillo into a whole new experience each time you cook. So, get creative and have fun with it—cooking should be as enjoyable as eating!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now, let’s talk about how to store those delicious leftovers from your mexican picadillo recipe. First off, if you have any leftovers (which is rare but can happen), you want to make sure they’re stored properly to keep all that flavor intact!

Cool Before Storing: Let your picadillo cool down to room temperature before tossing it in the fridge. This helps prevent condensation, which can make it soggy.
Airtight Container: Transfer your cooled picadillo to an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents any odors from your fridge from sneaking in. You can also use a resealable plastic bag if that’s what you have on hand!
Refrigerate: Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It tastes even better the next day as those flavors continue to meld!
Freezing for Later: If you want to save it for a rainy day, you can freeze your picadillo! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or bag, and it can last for up to 2-3 months. Just be sure to label it with the date so you don’t forget!

When you’re ready to dig in again, reheating it is super simple:

Stovetop: For the best results, warm it up on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. You might want to add a splash of water or broth if it looks a bit dry!
Microwave: If you’re short on time, pop it in the microwave! Place your desired amount in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until it’s hot all the way through.

And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your homemade picadillo anytime you want. Happy feasting!

Nutritional Information

Alright, let’s break down the nutritional side of my mexican picadillo recipe! Each serving is packed with goodness, making it a delicious and satisfying meal. Here’s what you can expect per serving:

Calories: 300
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 400mg
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 20g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. It’s always a good idea to check your labels if you’re keeping an eye on certain nutrients. But overall, you can feel good about serving this dish to your family knowing it’s both hearty and healthy!

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of meat for this picadillo recipe?
Absolutely! While I love using ground beef for that rich flavor, you can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken. Just keep in mind that these leaner meats may require a bit more seasoning to really shine through!

What can I serve with picadillo?
Picadillo is fantastic served with warm tortillas or over a bed of fluffy rice. You could also pair it with a fresh salad or some avocado slices for a refreshing contrast. It’s super versatile!

Can I make picadillo ahead of time?
Yes, definitely! In fact, picadillo often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container, and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!

Is picadillo gluten-free?
Yes! This mexican picadillo recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect option for those with gluten sensitivities. Just be sure to check the labels of any canned ingredients you use, like the diced tomatoes.

How can I make my picadillo spicier?
If you like a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper while cooking. You can also toss in some chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky kick that really elevates the flavor!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.